There are several different kinds of treatment for depression and they are effective in different ways. What do create a problem are the side effects of the treatments like the antidepressants and the shock treatment or ECT. Herbal treatment has fewer side effects and has become increasingly popular. Among the older antidepressants Trycyclics has a lot more side effects than other medications given for signs of depression. More effective among these medications is Monomine Oxidase Inhibitors known as MAOIs, however, the patient who is given this treatment has to remain on a strict diet as cheese and wine creates a very negative reaction if consumed with this medicine. Other drugs are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors. These drugs have more serious side effects and even bring on suicidal attempts. Patients especially the young ones have to be monitored when they are administered these drugs.
Shock therapy is another treatment for manic depression and other mental illnesses. The patient is given a muscle relaxant and general anesthesia before the shock treatment. If the treatment is done properly the patient develops a seizure. As the patient has been administered a muscle relaxant, there will only be a mild movement of the feet and hands visible. The patient does not remember anything after regaining consciousness. Repeated shock therapies can cause permanent loss of memory and disorders in movement and seizures too. With the worst side effects resulting from shock therapy and antidepressants herbal treatment is the safest method with little of no side effects.