Anxietyanddepressionare common but serious mental health issues that can cause a dramatic decrease in functioning and quality of life.
In the United States, about 1 in 5 people experience anxiety, and 1 in 10 have depression.
Symptoms of anxiety include:
Symptoms of depression include:
Bothgeneticand environmental factors can contribute toanxiety and depression.
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If you have suicidal thoughts, dial988to contact the988 Suicide & Crisis Lifelineand connect with a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call911.
What Medications Are Available for Anxiety and Depression?
There are several classes of medications used to treat anxiety and depression.
Heres a summary of the most common medications for anxiety and depression.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)increase serotonin levels.
You should also contact your prescriber, as abruptly stopping a medication like duloxetinecan be dangerous.
They increase serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels by blocking an enzyme that breaks down these chemical messengers.
Some serious side effects and interactions with other medicines limit their use.
MAOIs may cause:
Serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening.
They increase the effects of GABA and can help treat anxiety but not depression.
Benzos have a rapid onset of action (they start acting quickly).
They are typically used only as needed or as a bridge until antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs kick in.
Because medicines in this catch-all class arent structurally related, side effects vary.
Here are the typical doses used for these atypical antidepressants.
NMDA receptors allow the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate to attach to its binding site.
When glutamate binds to the NMDA receptor, it causes the release of calcium into the nerve cells.
This will ensure that you are getting all the help you need.
These are not safe choices for everyone.
Never stop taking antidepressants abruptly, as this could cause your symptoms to worsen.
Additional interventions that help depression or anxiety include CBT and meditation.
All antidepressants have side effects.
Sometimes, stress can be overwhelming and challenging to manage on your own.
attempt to seek medical help if you feel overwhelmed or hopeless.
You are not alone.
Contact theSAMHSA National Helplineat800-662-4357for information on support and treatment facilities in your area if you are struggling with anxiety.
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