Extensive research shows that depression is one of the most common mental disorders. Moreover, it affects more than 264 million people of all ages. Despite this substantial number, studies show that 76% and 85% of people living in low and middle-income countries fail to receive any mental illness treatment.

Simultaneously, there are many practical psychological and pharmacological treatments available for both moderate and severe depression. One of which is taking antibiotics, known as antidepressants. Antidepressants target the neurotransmitters in your brain, affecting your mood and emotions. 

Do Antidepressants Work?

Antidepressants allow a greater quantity of neurotransmitters to stay within the brain to help make up for deficiencies that result in a person’s depressive episodes. In turn, these depression medicines work towards improving your mood, enhancing your sleeping experience, increasing your concentration, and allowing you to eat better. 

People taking antidepressants may notice that they don’t feel better instantly. That’s because the medication takes at least three to four weeks before causing a considerable change in your mood. 

Moreover, there’s a slight chance you may experience side effects of taking antidepressants like headache, nausea, sleeplessness, low sex-drive, dry mouth, or agitation, among others. Most of the time, these symptoms disappear within a couple of days or weeks. In case you’re experiencing severe side effects, it’s always a smart idea to discuss it with a doctor. 

Antidepressants and Long-Term Effects

Yes, taking antidepressants helps provide long-term relief. However, you must keep in mind that antidepressants aim to relieve symptoms; they cannot eradicate the root of depression. 

Moreover, depending on the severity of your depression, you may need to take antidepressants for six months to several years. Users must also remember never to stop taking medications before consulting their doctors.

Sources

https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/antidepressant-effects

https://www.verywellmind.com/can-antidepressants-cure-depression-1066857