Is Stress Likely To Increase My Risk Of Relapse, And How Can I Avoid Recurrence Of Depression During Stressful Times?

— -- Question: Is stress likely to increase my risk of relapse, and how can I avoid recurrence of depression during stressful times?

Answer: There's a lot of evidence that stress increases the risk for depression or can trigger a depression. If stress is avoidable, it's best to avoid major stresses. If stress is not avoidable-- or cannot be seen coming-- it's good to seek the support of family, of friends and professionals to help you through a time of stress.

It's very important not to turn to drugs such as alcohol or mood elevators that are not prescription drugs to get through the stressful period because they too can destabilize or trigger a depression.

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