Truth and Facts about Antidepressants
14-07-2017 | Posted By: Vivek Singh | 2116 View(s)
What are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are medications given to patients with depressive disorders.They correct chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain which are said to cause changes in the mood and behaviour of an individual.In the case of depression, these chemicals are not properly available to the brain. The antidepressant medicines make these chemicals readily available to the brain.
They may be used for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.The major symptoms of depression such as sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest improve a lot with the regular use of these medicines. The antidepressants are also to be used with close observation as improvement typically starts within 4 to 6 weeks. If it does not happen, one must consult the doctor immediately for the corrective measures.Before proceeding ahead we need to understand as to what exactly is Depression and how can it be cured by the use of Antidepressant medication and other means.
What is Depression?
Depression may be defined as a state wherein you feel sad or miserable most of the times with little interest in your life or day to day activities and do not enjoy the normal activities which otherwise gave you pleasure.If this continues for an extended period of time normally more than two weeks along with a change in behaviour patterns and exhibit some physical symptoms it could possibly be signs of depression.
Reasons of Depression?
Depression has become a major problem these days, and many people experience it at some stage of life because of a number of reasons.The excessive work pressure, materialistic aspirations, unrealistic or very high ambitions coupled with complex relationships in today’s fast-paced world, sudden grief or suffering because of prolonged illness are the major causes of such depression.It is a condition which affects not only the adults but is slowly and gradually getting rampant in teenagers as well.There is a very steep competition everywhere nowadays, and one wrong step can lead to the undesirable situation. Relationships, on the personal levels, have become complicated and people hardly find time for themselves to focus on the brighter aspects of life. This, in turn, leads to more people suffering from depressive disorders. Doctors are finding new ways of fighting the depression as the number of individuals being affected are rising with each passing day.
Symptoms of Depression
1. Having Trouble in Sleeping:
This is one of the most visible signs of depression.If you are finding it difficult to fall asleep or not being able to sleep at all, it could be because of depression and the condition would need immediate medical attention to avoid deterioration of the condition.
2. Sleeping Too Much:
This could also possibly indicate that all is not well with the body and the condition requires medical attention.
3. Loss of Interest in Normal Activities:
Some people tend to lose interest in normal day to day activities because of depression.
4. An Increase in Energy Levels:
Those going thru depression may exhibit or can show higher than normal levels of energy which they would not have experienced before.
5. Change in Appetite:
A lot many people have a tendency to overeat when depressed and the reverse is also true.It is found that in some case those suffering from depression lose interest or stop eating altogether.
5. Getting irritated:
Even small Things seem to bother those who suffer from depression and can lead to unnecessary irritation at times for no reason whatsoever or without any provocation.
6. Demonstrating Suicidal Tendencies:
In an acute case, those with depression show suicidal tendencies.Some even talk about death and become more philosophical than they normally should or are.
How long does it take for the Anti-Depressants to Work?
In general, the antidepressants can take few weeks to months and sometimes even longer to have the desired effect; however, it depends highly on the intensity of the disease and other factors too. Not completing the medication and leaving it in between can be counter-productive as all efforts of taking medicines in the past become null and void and depression can come back to haunt you again.So it is not at all a good idea to leave medication midway and should only be discontinued upon doctor’s instructions only.One should follow the medicine routine rigorously so as to avoid skipping of any dosage without fail.Generally when results start showing-The dosage of anti-depressants is reduced gradually and then stopped which may take anywhere between six to nine months for those seeking treatment for the first episode of depression.
Various side effects that might accompany the Antidepressants:
Like every medication, antidepressants too have various of side effects.The effects can be insomnia, nausea, Fatigue and drowsiness, increased or decreased appetite, weight gain, Blurred Vision, Constipation, loss of sexual desire and other sexual problems.The doctor should be informed about the side effects immediately so that they can decide on alternatives if required so that the side effects do not diminish the efficacy of the treatment
Change your Habits to gain effective Results:
One must spend enough time with the family and the near and dear ones during such period of depression. It also acts as a medicine and helps fight the problem faster. Spending time with pets can also have a significant effect on the mind and body. Listening to good music and indulging in a pastime hobby can also work wonders.Keeping yourself fit by going in for regular exercises, morning jogs, gym or for a swim can also help to a great extent as it energises the body and mind.
Discontinuation of the Medicine
Doctors are the best judge to decide upon the timings for discontinuing the use of antidepressants or minimising its dosage. Leaving the medicine abruptly can lead to various other complications, so do not be in a hurry to get rid of the medicines as these medications are taken for a longer period of time to show effective Results.
