Treatment for depression often includes a combination of prescription medication and psychotherapy.
There are some lifestyle changes you’ve got the option to also make to manage depression symptoms.
They are also used to effectively reduce anxiety, restlessness, sleep problems, and suicidal thinking.
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Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.
They are often used as first-line treatment for depression because they cause fewer side effects than other antidepressants.
Studies have shown that SSRIs are also effective at preventing relapse of MDD.
Many people who take SSRIs experience mild side effects at the beginning of treatment that improve with time.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are another class of medications commonly prescribed to treat depression.
You should also contact your prescriber, as abruptly stopping a medication like duloxetinecan be dangerous.
Norepinephrine helps regulate alertness and concentration, while dopamine helps with mood regulation.
This class of antidepressants may also be prescribed forADHD, narcolepsy, orParkinsons disease.
Symptoms of an NDRI overdose can include seizures, hallucinations, heart problems, and loss of consciousness.
A study found TCAs are less tolerated compared with SSRIs, and significantly more patients taking TCAs discontinued treatment.
These medications are sometimes prescribed when other antidepressants dont work.
They are also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain.
They should never be used together with SSRIs.
Although the way Auvelity works in the treatment of MDD is unclear, it has two active ingredients.
Bupropion inhibits an enzyme that breaks down dextromethorphan, allowing dextromethorphan to last longer.
Exxua (gepirone) is the first and only FDA-approved 5-HT1A receptor agonist to treat MDD.
Exxua is the first and only approved antidepressant that selectively targets the serotonin 1a (5-HT1a) receptor.
Unlike other antidepressant medications, Exxua does not pose the risks of sexual side effects or weight gain.
Exact duration depends on the severity of depression.
CBT is often time limited, and may only include eight to 16 sessions in some cases.
Psychodynamic therapy, which can be short or long term, promotes emotional healing through self-reflection and personal growth.
Additional forms of psychotherapy can help them learn healthier ways of communicating with others and behaving.
These include supportive counseling, behavioral activation, problem-solving therapy, and family or couples therapy.
Some of these treatments, such as herbal remedies, can cause serious side effects and interact with antidepressants.
Johns Wort has similar chemical properties to some SSRIs and works by increasing levels of serotonin.
The risk of combining this supplement with other SSRIs is substantial, however.
Exercising works by increasing the bodys natural feel-good chemicals called endorphins.
It has also been shown to have a positive impact on improving nerve cell connections in the hippocampus.
Stress and Relaxation Techniques
Stress and relaxation techniques can help a person relieve symptoms of depression.
They can also help with daily functioning since they foster emotional resilience and help a person learn to self-soothe.
A Word From Verywell
Depression treatment is not one size fits all.
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