Affecting one in four Americans each year, depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the country. It’s a complex condition that impacts each individual differently — and that means treatments differ, too.
Both therapy and lifestyle changes can help manage depression symptoms, and antidepressant medications are often a key part of treatment. Types of antidepressants include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), atypical antidepressants, and tricyclic antidepressants.
Antidepressant medications work by balancing neurotransmitters in your brain that regulate mood and emotions, but finding the right antidepressant and dosage can take time. Every person responds differently to medication, and our team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates is here to help you find the best fit for you.
We specialize in medication management, and once we find the right medication for you, it can be life-changing. Here’s how.
One of the most noticeable benefits of the right antidepressant is an improvement in your general mood. Depression can make everyday life feel overwhelming, draining motivation and joy from activities that once brought happiness.
The right medication helps regulate your brain chemistry, which can reduce persistent sadness, irritability, and emotional numbness. Over time, people taking depression medication find themselves feeling more balanced and emotionally stable, making it easier to engage in daily life and fulfilling relationships.
Fatigue and low energy are common symptoms of depression, and they can make even simple tasks feel exhausting. Some antidepressants, particularly the SNRIs, help increase energy levels by enhancing norepinephrine activity in your brain.
When the right medication is in place, you may notice improved motivation, allowing you to participate more fully in work, hobbies, and social activities. Increased energy can also help you feel more motivated to exercise, which further boosts your mood and overall well-being.
Depression often disrupts sleep, and it can contribute to issues like insomnia, frequent waking, or excessive sleepiness. Because antidepressants help reduce anxiety and stabilize your mood, they can also help restore a healthier sleep cycle.
Better sleep not only improves your energy levels but also plays a critical role in cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall mental health. Once your sleep patterns improve, you might also experience a greater sense of well-being and resilience.
Many people with depression also struggle with anxiety, which often manifests as excessive worry, restlessness, or even panic attacks. Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs, are often prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms as well.
By regulating serotonin and norepinephrine levels, these medications can reduce feelings of stress and promote a calmer, more focused state of mind. This can make daily challenges feel more manageable and improve your overall quality of life.
The right antidepressant medication doesn’t just reduce your symptoms — it can also make therapy more effective. When depression is severe, it can be difficult to fully engage in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of talk therapy.
Medication can help stabilize your mood and reduce overwhelming symptoms, allowing you to actively participate in your treatment and develop healthy coping strategies. This can lead to long-term emotional growth and resilience.
Finding the right antidepressant can take time, but once you do, the benefits can be life-changing. If you’re struggling with depression, we’re here to help you explore your options and find the best treatment plan for your needs. Contact Boston Neurobehavioral Associates to connect with a trained therapist today.
