Harvard Health Content API

Dental phobia can be treated successfully with several different strategies, and using them in combination often results in a better outcome.

In addition to the stress of caring for a relative or friend with a brain illness, caregivers are at greater risk of developing anxiety, depression, a chronic illness, or of premature death. Information, support, and respite care can ease the burden.

Schools seeking to prevent or reduce violence are using screening tools to identify students who may be suffering from depression. The goal is to create an environment where students feel they are connected to the school community.

A study found that a program of mindfulness therapy was about as effective as a maintenance dosage of medication at preventing a relapse of depression.

Patients with milder or moderate symptoms of depression may benefit from psychotherapy, relaxation techniques, and exercise before considering use of an antidepressant medication.

Psychodynamic therapy is in some ways similar to psychoanalysis, though it typically does not last as long. Research supports its use for a variety of mental health disorders.

Taking an omega-3 supplement during pregnancy does not significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing postpartum depression.

Women who develop depression during pregnancy, but who are reluctant to take antidepressant medications, can consider alternatives such as psychotherapy, acupuncture, or massage.

Most people with depression will have to try more than one medication before seeing positive results. Research shows that a medication should be taken for at least eight weeks before adding a second drug or trying a different one.