Treatment of severe depression – non-pharmacological aspects

Depression, in its severest forms, causes severe morbidity, has a high incidence of mortality and requires emergency treatment. In a previous article in this journal (Porter & Ferrier, 1999), we discussed the emergency treatment of severe depression by pharmacological means and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Here, we will discuss the contribution of non-pharmacological aspects of management to fast, effective and safe treatment of severe depression. We will also complete our review of this subject by examining the efficacy of some emerging therapeutic interventions for severe depression.