Ask Mary

Regardless of whether or not someone is dieting, depression is treated by medications and psychotherapy. The mental health therapist refers the patient to a psychiatrist for medication or a family physician can prescribe medications, but I would not skip the therapy step. Both treatments are covered by most health insurers. Depression often surfaces during dieting because food is removed as the individual's self-medication of choice.  To prevent any depression related to poor nutrition while dieting, choose a balanced diet and take a daily multi-vitamin/mineral supplement.