Many people with anxiety also experience depression. That is because medical research has shown that the same neurotransmitters that transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain, are the same ones that affect anxiety. It is all one big chemical imbalance. Antidepressant medication helps correct this imbalance.
Depression is a treatable illness. Learning more about depression and following a treatment program that is prescribed by your doctor will help improve your prospects for a future that is free of depression. Remember, recovery does not happen overnight. It usually takes a few weeks before you see improvement, so don't get discouraged!
Major depression requires prompt medical attention.
The symptoms include:
Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt
Significant change in weight or appetite
Change in sleeping habits (such as insomnia or oversleeping)
Fatigue, loss of energy, feeling "slowed down"
Agitation, restlessness, irritability
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Frequent thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
As mentioned earlier, medical treatment (antidepressants) and therapy relieve the symptoms of depression by correcting the chemical imbalance.
Types of Anti-depressants
SSRIs - generally have fewer side-effects associated with the older antidepressants mentioned below. Tricyclic antidepressants are as effective as SSRIs, but have a higher frequency of side-effects. MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) are prescribed much less frequently than SSRIs or tricyclics because of their side effects. MAOIs cannot be taken with certain drugs and foods.
As you continue with your treatment, it is very important to keep your doctor informed about how it is going. Take your medication EXACTLY as it is prescribed. Contact your doctor concerning any side effects, it is possible to change medication to find one that is more suitable for you.
Above all, call your doctor right away if you start to have thoughts about harming yourself in any way!!!
