Depression and HIV

October 2003     View PDF     En español
Reprinted from www.aidsmeds.com, US

When should I get help with depression?

Major depressions often do get better on their own, but this can take at least six months or a year and some symptoms may persist for much longer. Adequate treatment can often shorten the period of time that you are suffering to a few weeks or less. Getting help may keep you from losing a job, a relationship or even your life.

Dysthymia can be life-long, and many people who have episodes of major depression also suffer from dysthymia.

If depression is intense and interferes significantly with your daily life for a period of time (major depression), or if you are functioning adequately but feeling depressed for months at a time (dysthymia), you should seek help from a mental health professional. You should always seek help if you are suicidal or neglecting necessary medical care.