If you have depression, your doctor may have prescribed you antidepressants. But it's normal for many people to feel scared and skeptical when they hear about these medications. Questions like "Will I change if I take them?", "Will I get addicted to them?", "Will I have to take them for the rest of my life?" come to mind. Because of this fear, many people who could really benefit from these medications hesitate to seek treatment. So today, let's talk very simply, as if we were your friends, about the fears about these medications and whether they are true or not.
Common fears and facts about antidepressants
These antidepressants are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat depression. In fact, four out of ten people who use these medications experience significant improvement with the first dose. Sometimes, if the first dose doesn't work, a second or third dose is almost always successful. But because of the misconceptions people have about these medications, many people are afraid to start treatment. Let's take a look at those fears one by one.
| Common Fear | The Fact |
|---|---|
| Fear 1: These medications only make you forget about problems, not help you solve them. | Fact: These medications won't make you forget your problems. But they will give you the mental strength and clarity you need to face them. Depression can leave you feeling scattered and powerless to do anything. When these medications help you stabilize your mind, you'll have the strength to look at your problems in the right light and solve them. |
| Fear 2: My personality will change when I take the medication, I will become like a robot (zombie). | Fact: When used correctly, these medications do not change your personality. They simply bring back the old you that depression has lost.. You will start to feel like yourself again. These are not "happy pills." Rarely, some medications can cause apathy. If this happens, talk to your doctor and he or she can adjust the dose or switch to a different medication. |
| Fear 3: I will gain weight if I take this medicine. | Fact: Yes, this is possible. Like all medications, there are side effects. Weight gain is one of them. Some antidepressants are more likely to cause weight gain, while others can also cause weight loss. If you have a weight problem, talk to your doctor about it openly . He or she can help you choose the best medication for you. |
| Fear 4: If you start these, you will have to drink for the rest of your life. | Fact: This is a complete misconception. A person who has depression for the first time usually has to take this medication continuously for about 6 to 9 months. It is not for life. Once the depression is well controlled with medication, you should talk to your doctor and gradually reduce the dose according to his or her instructions before stopping . If you stop suddenly, you may experience discomfort such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. |
| Fear 5: This medication will ruin my sex life. | Fact: Some antidepressants can affect sexual function. More often than not, it's more about difficulty achieving orgasm than a decrease in libido. But remember, your sexual desire may have decreased significantly due to depression itself . So once you take medication and your depression is gone, your sex life may be better than before. You can talk to your doctor about this too and choose the right medication for you. |
| Fear 6: These are a sign of weakness. | Fact: This is the biggest misconception. Just like diabetes or high blood pressure, depression is a medical condition caused by chemical changes in the brain. Seeking treatment for it is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of a strong person who cares about their health . |
What is the relationship between suicidal thoughts and antidepressants?
This is a scary and sensitive topic for many people. Some recent studies have shown that there may be a small increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior (but not death) among children, adolescents, and young adults who use these medications.
For this reason, the American FDA has mandated that these medications include a boxed warning on their labels.
So what really happens?
Think about it, in the first few weeks of starting this medication, there are some changes that occur as the body gets used to it. During this time, especially in a young person, there may be a feeling of anxiety and restlessness. I think this may be the reason for the increased thoughts.
That's why your doctor will want to see you often for the first few weeks after you start this medication. It's important to tell him or her about any changes you notice, no matter how small.
But there is another side to the coin. Another large study found that the suicide rate in the United States decreased significantly after the popular drug fluoxetine (brand name Prozac) came on the market.
Simply put, untreated severe depression is far more dangerous than the risks these medications may pose. When depression is controlled with medication, suicidal thoughts often disappear with it.
Most importantly: No matter what your age, whether you are on medication or not, if you are having suicidal thoughts, please talk to your doctor about it immediately. Don't hesitate to go to a hospital emergency room (ETU) if necessary. Asking for help is a sign of strength.
Take-Home Message
- Depression is not a weakness. It is a medical condition that requires treatment.
- Antidepressants don't change you, they help you become yourself again.
- Not all medications are right for everyone. Your doctor will help you find the best medication for you. So be open and honest with him or her about your feelings.
- Always follow your doctor's instructions when starting and stopping medication. Never stop taking medication suddenly.
- Don't be afraid or embarrassed about seeking treatment. It's one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
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