Current American Psychiatric Association guidelines state that adults experiencing at least five of the symptoms of depression for two consecutive weeks, and at least one of them is depressed mood or loss of interest, they should talk to a health care professional. Additional symptoms of depression can also include feelings of guilt or worthlessness, thoughts of death or suicide, restlessness, trouble concentrating or making decisions, fatigue, lack of energy and changes in weight or sleep patterns. Additional symptoms of depression may include pain, irritability and anxiety.

Step Two: Six Week Rule for Seeing Improvement in Depression Symptoms

To get fully well, it is important to address all of the symptoms of depression. Experts recommend that individuals on any type of treatment plan for depression who are unsatisfied with their level of improvement should consider consulting with their doctor about making changes to their treatment plan.

Step Three: Managing Your Depression Treatment Plan When Feeling Better

If an individual has found a depression treatment plan that is addressing many of their depression symptoms, they should continue on that treatment for at least another four to nine months to help prevent the return of their symptoms. Some individuals will also need long-term maintenance treatment to help prevent future episodes of depression.

In addition to this three-step plan, Missing Pieces offers an educational Web site, found at www.MissingPiecesProgram, which provides more survey details and in-depth information about depression. The Missing Pieces program was driven by a multi-disciplinary expert panel that helped shape the development of all educational materials including the national survey and Web site content:

Dr. Susan Kornstein, professor of psychiatry and obstetrics and gynecology at Virginia Commonwealth University Dr. Sally Edwards, family practice doctor at Woodinville Primary Care in Seattle, WashingtonDr. W. Clay Jackson, clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Tennessee College of MedicineDr. Thomas Wise, professor of psychiatry, George Washington University School of Medicine

SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company