Emotional Wellness Mary Symmes is the founder of Self Investment Strategies and a life coach devoted to the empowerment of working women. Mary is also a clinical social worker in Alexandria, Va. Visit her Web site at SelfInvestmentStrategies.com Treatment for Depression Question: I am under the influence of heredity depression. I constantly feel like my life on the edge of the world, and because of this, I have gotten into the habit of eating whenever I feel depressed and/or feeling extreme anger. As you might guess, eating so many snacks and sweets isn't working with my physical health. I don't want to take depressants because of the side affects. Is there any other way to calm me down and take these candies away? B. Answer: The short answer is no, not really. You can try exercise - often that helps mild to moderate depression. I wonder, though, since you are already suffering a "side effect" of not treating your depression (your eating and your health, why don't you go ahead and try some medicine? Not everyone gets side effects, and if they do they are usually mild and transient. You say your depression is inherited, which adds to the odds against you, unfortunately. If your depression is genetically linked, antidepressant drugs are usually the most effective treatment since the depression is so biologically based. I think talk therapy would be very helpful also, since you do seem to have the helpless/hopeless mindset of depression and some self-defeating thinking and behavior. The combination of drugs and counseling has been shown in many studies to be most effective with depressed patients. I strongly suggest that you talk with your doctor about your depression and your concerns about medicine, and see if he or she can relieve your mind a bit. From what you have told me, it seems clear to me that you could really use some professional help. Please pursue it! Other Recent Questions: I can't decide if I should go back to work after I have a baby or not. Any advice? I'm worried that my husband may be having an affair. How can I find out? Ask Mary your questions The above is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for professional mental health treatment. Individuals should consult licensed professionals as needed.