According to WHO estimates, about 6–7% of the adult population in Ukraine suffers from depression every year—that’s over 2 million people. Women seek help much more often than men. It’s important for anyone with depression symptoms to stick with treatment until they reach remission and continue it for several more months. This is the standard of care recommended by Ukraine’s Ministry of Health.

Depressive episodes sometimes go away without treatment, but this can take anywhere from a few months to a year, causing damage to relationships, work life, and overall health. Research shows that the longer an episode lasts, the higher the risk of recurrence and the more severe future episodes may be.

Does depression go away on its own?

Sometimes depressive episodes disappear without treatment, but this involves months of suffering. Ukrainian psychiatrists emphasize that without therapy, only about 30% of patients reach remission within 6 months. The inflammation linked to depression can lead to neurodegeneration over time, making recovery harder. That is why treatment is necessary even with the first episode.

When does depression need treatment?

Any episode lasting more than two weeks should be treated. Getting help early offers the best chance of recovery and helps prevent future relapses. In Ukraine, depression is a leading cause of temporary disability; it lowers productivity, hurts family life, and increases the risk of heart disease.

Main treatment methods

Psychotherapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective approach. It helps change negative thought patterns, provides a sense of control, and prevents the depression from returning. Initial results usually appear after 12–16 weeks of regular sessions.

Medication
In Ukraine, doctors most often prescribe antidepressants such as SSRis (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). These balance brain chemicals and boost the brain’s ability to rewire itself (neuroplasticity). According to the Ministry of Health, 40–60% of patients feel significantly better within 6–8 weeks. The standard advice is to continue the medication for another 4 to 9 months after achieving remission.

Neuromodulation
Leading Ukrainian clinics are already using brain stimulation methods:

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) — a non-invasive method that stimulates mood-related areas of the brain;
• Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) — the use of a weak electrical current through electrodes on the scalp;
• Deep Brain Stimulation — used rarely, only for cases where other treatments have failed.
  TMS shows a significant improvement in 60% of cases, even for patients who do not respond to antidepressants.

Lifestyle changes
The Ministry of Health advises patients to build healthy habits: regular sleep, exercise, a balanced diet, cutting back on alcohol, and staying social. Just 15 minutes of activity a day can significantly lower the risk of developing depression.

New approaches

Ketamine
Globally, ketamine is used as a fast-acting treatment for treatment-resistant depression, especially when suicidal thoughts are present. In Ukraine, it is available only at a few specialized centers.

Psychedelics
Research is ongoing into substances like psilocybin and MDMA. These are not yet approved for treatment in Ukraine, but international studies show they are very promising.

What can you do on your own?

• Regulate your sleep and daily routine
• Stay physically active (even 15-minute walks help)
• Get regular sunlight exposure
• Stay in touch with friends and family
• Use relaxation techniques (meditation, breathing exercises)

Being active acts as an “antidote” to depression, restoring motivation and a sense of control. In Ukraine, depression is a common disorder affecting millions. Treating it early through a mix of therapy, medication, brain stimulation, and lifestyle changes yields the best results.