How to manage long-term depression in a 27-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 27-year-old daughter has been suffering from depression for many years. She was never been treated, as she finds it hard to see a doctor due to social phobia or anxiety and is unable to make or answer phone calls. We want to take her to a doctor for medication and wondering what medications might be a good choice for these symptoms. She lost her 25-year-old brother to suicide six months ago, so probably she has PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) as well and blames herself. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your situation and your daughter's problem. She may have a major depressive disorder. There is non-pharmacological management for depression. She should try to follow the below guidelines to deal with it, and it will help her:

She should do exercises daily for 30 to 45 minutes, like at least going for a walk.

She should do meditation for 20 minutes daily, just sit in one place in a comfortable position, and try to concentrate on her normal breathing, do not stop or force herself to stop her thoughts, just let it be.
She should eat healthy home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods.
She must drink enough water.
She should spend quality time with friends and family daily.
She should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills or language or musical instruments.
She should get seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
She must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.

Give her a reason to live her life, do not just spend it. She should be bold and confident.

If she still has symptoms that persist after following the advice for four to six weeks, then she needs to start medications. I suggest she start a capsule of Fluoxetine 20 mg daily in the morning after breakfast.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you want some help.

Thank you.