According to stats from the CDC, the use of anti-depressant medication is on the rise. Naturally, this has led many other people experiencing depression to wonder: Should I explore prescription medication as a potentially effective treatment option?
There is no one-size-fits-all anti-depressant drug available. Rather, an antidepressant medication will belong to one of five classes:
- SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- SNRIs (serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
- Atypical antidepressants
Are Anti-Depressants Effective in Treating Depression?
While there are multiple classes, each prescription treats depression using a similar function – regulating the imbalance of neurochemicals in the brain. That said, it is still difficult to tell if anti-depressants will be beneficial for an individual person. Someone’s depression may respond to medication depending on their overall health, length of treatment, engagement in therapy, the severity of symptoms, physical makeup, and several other factors.
In addition to this uncertainty, even beneficial antidepressants can come with the following possible side effects: Dry mouth, headaches, dizziness, restlessness, sexual dysfunction, diarrhea, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, vision problems, constipation, trembling, and trouble urinating. Therefore, it’s important for anyone considering medication for depression to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Anti-depressants typically take a few weeks to begin working and will reach full effect a little while after this initial period. Some individuals will take medications short-term and then gradually stop with the help of their prescriber. Others, especially those with chronic depression, may continue taking anti-depressants long-term to reduce their chances of relapse.
Getting Help for Depression
Dana Group Behavioral Health in Massachusetts can help you find a depression treatment plan that’s right for you – whether that includes anti-depressant medication or not. Behavioral health professionals will work with you to find relief from depression and start feeling better. Read more about when to consider anti-depressant medication for treating depression.
Read More About When To Consider Anti-Depressant Medication For Treating Depression.