Understanding Depression Pills
Depression pills are typically only prescribed to those who have been diagnosed with clinical depression. Clinical depression is a diagnosis that indicates you have chronic sadness and lowered energy levels. It is known that there are chemical changes that take place in the brain during depression. A family history of depression makes it more likely you will develop depression yourself, probably because of the balances and tendencies of these chemicals in your own brain. Most depression pills prescribed today are an attempt to restore the proper function of the brain’s neurotransmitters.
Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that scientists have been able to most closely correlate with depression. Serotonin levels are known to have an impact on appetite, mood, and sleep. Generally, depression seems to be the result when serotonin levels get very low. It is also known that shortages of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine are correlated with depression. Currently, most depression pills attempt to increase the availability of these two neurotransmitters to the brain.
Currently SSRIs (Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitors) are the most widely used depression pills. You have probably heard of such SSRIs as Prozac, Wellbutrin, Zoloft, and Effexor. These depression pills attempt to keep the brain from discarding or re-absorbing serotonin so that the serotonin levels will remain high. This is often referred to as the bioavailability of serotonin. This means simply that the serotonin is kept available for use by the brain instead of being discarded.
Tricyclics are another class of depression pills that attempt to work on the neurotransmitters of the brain. Tricyclic depression pills are no longer prescribed as much as they used to be. Two of the best known tricyclic depression pills are Pamelor and Elavil. SSRIs are generally more successful with less side effects, but they don’t always work for everyone so occasionally they will be replaced or supplemented with tricyclic depression pills. The common side effects of tricyclic depression pills are sedation, weight gain, and dry mouth.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #1
Fish oil supplements. These can be an effective anti-depressant. Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that have been found to suppress feelings of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids can help the brain replenish its supply of DHA fatty acids, which are needed to keep the brain healthy.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #2
B vitamins and folic acid. According to research, the B vitamins are another natural cure for depression. Research has discovered folic acid deficiencies in adults who have depression. Low folic acid levels can cause one to experience bouts of depression. Additionally, low folic acid levels can slow your body’s response to depression medications.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #3
Exercise. A good workout can help alleviate depression. Exercise acts as a mood enhancer. Exercise can enhance the effects of depression medications by helping the body absorb medications better. And exercise encourages the production of endorphins, the “happy mood” chemical.