Depression takes many different forms. Even though many Americans suffer from depression, they don't know it or if they do, they won't admit it even to themselves.

It is estimated that some 14 million Americans are affected by depression. It is also estimated that less than a third of those affected will ever seek treatment|Fewer than 4.7 million of those, about 1/3, will seek health check help|Unfortunately only a very small percent, less than 1/3, will go for treatment. What are the reasons? Maybe it's due to the fact that mental illness is considered a mental illness. Nobody wants that label applied to them.

It wasn't that long ago that society shunned those unfortunate enough to be categorized with mental illness. In many cases those with slight signs of depression were locked away in state institutions for the mentally ill. Times have changed now, thank goodness. But what hasn't changed are old stereotypes. This influences many Americans to keep their illness to themselves.

Many factors contribute to depression. Diagnosis isn't simple. Chemical balance in the brain, DNA, biology and even environment have to be considered. Drugs, alcohol and stress all can play a major function in the development of depression. These are all factors in causes depression.

So what are some of the treatments and cures available for those that are inflicted? Just as there are many factors that can cause depression-there are many options to cure it as well.

These options are generally considered after evaluating the individual afflicted with depression

There are many supposed cures for depression. Methods of treatment that are safe and that work to cure depression do exist.

Has the method being considered been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of depression?

If it is medication, herbal or prescription, does it have the proven amount of ingredients to induce a positive result? Has the method been tested under an appropriate level of scientific method? Let's examine some of the more popular cures.

For years the typical treatment for many forms of depression has been prescription drugs and psychotherapy. SSRI, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are prescribed to treat depression.

One of the most popular, Prozac, was first used in the United States in 1988. Many others such as Paxil, Zoloft, Lexapro, Celexa, and Luvox have followed it. All have been proven to be effective. But side effects are common, including causing more depression.

That's the reason natural treatments are gaining popularity. A popular herbal cure is St. Johns Wort extract. It must have between three and five percent hyperforin to work.

Studies and actual cases show it to be as effective as Prozac but with fewer side effects. As important as it is to find a cure-it is impossible to do so if those who suffer do not seek it.

If you or someone you know suffers from depression seek medical attention immediately.