Depression: When is medication necessary?
Are you concerned about someone who is suffering from depression? Find out when medication may be needed, and how it can help.
Depression ranges in severity. Some people only suffer from minor bouts and can handle the symptoms without medical intervention.
When depression becomes ongoing and causes many unwanted symptoms, medication can bring relief. Knowing when to consider medication is critical for everyone suffering from depression.
How do you know when to start anti-depressive medications?
Around 20% of adults in the United States have mental health disorders. The two most common are depression and anxiety. Some people find it challenging dealing with depression.
The following signs should alert a person it is time to consider medication treatments:
- The depressive symptoms are interfering with a person’s life. When an individual cannot function normally, they may need medication to help them cope with ongoing depression.
- Those who have tried other forms of treatment without success should consider medication. Talk to a doctor about the options and determine which will offer the most benefit. Many people begin to recover from their symptoms with anti-depressive medication. Therapy may not help alone, but adding medication can increase the benefits.
- People who have dealt with previous mental health concerns should also consider their medication options. Many mental health concerns can arise without warning. Someone who has dealt with previous bouts is more at risk for further developments.
- Sometimes, individuals with severe depression lack the energy and drive to seek other treatments. They need intervention now and something that will help ease the symptoms so they can seek therapy and other forms of treatment. Many medications begin working within a few weeks and can make a profound difference.
- Those with anxiety and depression often require medical intervention in the form of prescription medications. Anxiety and depression can prevent a person from living a normal life because both mental health concerns become crippling.
- Individuals should also consider medications if they think anti-depressants are the best form of treatment. The mind is very powerful, and those who believe something strongly often get good results with medication.
How does medication help depression?
Anti-depressants are not for everyone but can be highly beneficial for many forms of depression. These medications work by balancing the chemicals in the brain. Anti-depressants help neurotransmitters work more effectively.
Neurotransmitters affect your moods and emotions. People experience the following benefits when they begin taking anti-depressive medications:
- Improved mood
- Better sleep
- Increased concentration
- Improved appetite
It is important to remember that anti-depressives take time to work. You may not feel better right away, but it is essential to continue taking the medications as prescribed. Most people begin to see improvements within three to four weeks of starting medications. Some medications may take longer to produce results, depending on the type and severity of depression.
Subtle changes are likely to occur first. In the beginning, many people want to give up on medications because they are not producing significant benefits. Patients should consider talking to their doctors about medication changes if they do not see any results within two to three months.
Depression medication can be life-changing
There are many anti-depressives on the market. Finding the right one may involve a little troubleshooting between you and your doctor, but it is worth the effort. Some people may need to try more than one depression medication before they find one that truly helps their condition. Medications are designed to help people get back to an enjoyable life.
