Living overseas with depression can present unique challenges and opportunities. 

It's crucial to maintain your support network, find resources for mental health, and adapt to the new environment while prioritizing self-care.

Maintaining Support:

• Connect with loved ones: Plan regular communication with family and friends back home to feel connected and supported.

• Consider online support groups: Seek out online communities or groups for people with depression, particularly those who may be in similar situations overseas.

• Find local resources: Research mental health charities or support services in your new location.

Medication, specifically antidepressants, is typically considered for depression when other treatments like therapy or lifestyle changes haven't been effective, or when symptoms are severe enough to significantly impact daily life. For moderate to severe depression, antidepressants are often used in conjunction with therapy, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

When to consider medication:

· Moderate to Severe Depression:

Antidepressants are often the first line of treatment for adults with moderate to severe depression, often paired with therapy.

· Inadequate Response to Other Treatments:

If initial attempts at lifestyle changes, counseling, or talking therapies haven't shown sufficient improvement, medication may be considered.

· Severe Symptoms Impairing Functioning:

If symptoms interfere significantly with daily activities, work, relationships, or overall quality of life, medication might be recommended.

· Specific Circumstances:

Antidepressants might be considered in certain situations, like if you have a history of successful response to antidepressants previously, or if you have a specific symptom profile that certain antidepressants could address.

· Alternative Treatment Options Exhausted:

If other treatments like therapy have been tried and haven't provided adequate relief, medication may be considered as a next step.

· With Doctor's Recommendation:

It's crucial to discuss your depression with a doctor, and they will determine whether medication is the right choice based on your individual situation.

In summary, medication for depression is usually considered when symptoms are severe, persistent, or don't respond to other therapies, or when co-occurring conditions are present. The decision should be made in consultation with a mental health professional and is not a routine approach, with therapy generally being the first-line treatment.

At ExpatTherapyHub.com, our therapists can provide comprehensive evaluations and collaborate with medical professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. We aim to support individuals in making informed decisions about medication as part of a holistic approach to managing depression.

Gina Hargitay our mental health coach based in Switzerland offers affordable therapy for expats, can help adults with anxiety as well as depression and is also a therapist for ADHD.