A most agonizing symptom, when it occurs, is the belief that the depression will go on forever.  Yet, although every depressed person worries that he or she is the one on whom the medications won't work, the probability of your having a favorable response is extremely high.  The doctor has several different types of medication, even if one is not successful, it is almost certain that another one will work.  Incidentally, you cannot fight the medication.  It will work whether you "believe in it" or not.

What Part Should the Family Play?

A person in a depression seriously doubts that recovery is possible and he feels it will go on forever.  The family should understand that the probability of improvement is excellent, and should give the patient every encouragement that he will get better.

Simple statements like "everything is going to be all right" or "you are going to be all right very soon" help the patient get over the unpleasant early period of depression.  Most people do not like being depressed and will start acting, thinking and feeling normal as soon as they can.

Many families misunderstand.  It is important for them to know that the patient cannot help being depressed.  There is nothing a depressed individual an do to "pull themselves together" or to "be grateful for what they have".  These remarks imply that he is being ill because he wants to be.  Such comments can only deepen the patient's sense of guilt and depression, which probably is already too strong.  The family that is unusually irritable or tries to "provoke" or force the patient to respond only makes the patient worse and the situation more unpleasant.

Is There Anything Else You Can Do?

YES:  When you are relieved you can reassure others that depression is a disease and not a weakness or punishment.