How do antidepressants actually work? | Dean Burnett

A recent article by Deborah Orrregarding her experiences with antidepressants sparked a lot of debate as to their merits and drawbacks. The truth is, they ’re not as simple or as understood as many might thinkAntidepressants; the go-totreatment for depression, or generalised anxiety. It ’s incredible when you think about it, the fact that you can have adebilitating mood disorder, take a few pills, and feel better. It ’s practically unbelievable that medical science has progressed so far that we now fully understand how the human brain produces moods and other emotions, so can manipulate them with designer drugs.That ’s right, itisunbelievable. Because it isn ’t the case. The fact that antidepressants are now so common is something of a mixed blessing. On one hand, anything thathelps reduce stigma and lets those afflicted know they aren ’t alone can only be helpful.Depression is incredibly common, so this awareness can literally save many lives.Continue reading...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Neuroscience Mental health Depression NHS Source Type: news