Medical Treatments for Depressive Symptoms

In this article, Ed Welch reviews medical aspects of depressive symptoms. Welch argues that no biological theory of depression has clear empirical support. Two propositions seem clear, however. First, antidepressant medication and other physical treatments can lighten symptoms and feelings of depression in some people. Second, some well-known medical diseases can have depressing effects (e.g., Parkinson’s, MS, head trauma, heart disease, etc.). Welch argues that all depression needs active spiritual ministry that often must address the salvific hopes a person invests in medication, hopes which always disappoint. He concludes with a reference guide to commonly prescribed psychotropic medications.