out depression

Depression is of two types one is Major Depressive Disorder and the other Bipolar Disorder. The two are different which require different treatments. The symptoms of the former involves sadness
excessive crying
loss of pleasure
sleeping too much or too little
low energy
restlessness
difficulty in concentrating
irritability
loss of appetite or overeating
feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
feelings of physical problems that are not caused by physical illness or injury like headaches
digestive problems
pain and thoughts of death or suicide.

Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression and also episodes of mania like inappropriate sense of euphoria (excitement)
reckless behavior
little sleep needed
excessive energy
racing thoughts; talking too much
out of control spending
difficulty concentrating
irritability
abnormally increased activity including sexual activity
poor judgment
aggressive behavior
extreme irritability or “out of control” behavior. People with depression do not experience manic episodes.

And an episode whether depressive or manic can last for days
weeks
months or even years. It is very essential to note that the treatment differs for both the conditions.
Both biological factors like genetics and psychological factors like stress play a major role in causing depression.

For people who are correctly diagnosed with depression i.e. major depressive disorder
antidepressant medications are often highly effective and they must be taken regularly for three to four weeks
sometimes even longer
before the full response is seen. Other treatments involve Electroconvulsive therapy
Lithium and Anticonvulsant medication both used for prevention. Sometimes interpersonal therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy is also used.

Treatments for bipolar disorder often involve a two-part plan of using both medication and psychotherapy. Different types of medications are used to treat bipolar disorder
including medicines for controlling manic symptoms
depressive symptoms or medications that help stabilize the patient's mood. Psychotherapy
with a licensed therapist or social worker
is also used in bipolar disorder treatment. Cognitive Therapy focuses on changing inappropriate or negative thought patterns
Behavioral Therapy focuses on current behaviors and Interpersonal therapy focuses on current relationships that can affect the illness. Psychoeducation helps the patient and family understand the illness and recognize signs of relapse. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy focuses on daily routines that can promote emotional stability. The line of treatment depends on the patient’s needs who usually works with healthcare professionals that supervise the patient’s care maintaining personal contact with each other to help ensure the patients' continued progress.

In both of the above cases it is very important that you do not stop treatment on your own
whether you have concerns about your medicine or if you feel you are doing better
discuss openly with your doctor.