Will Medication Improve My Mood?
Living with major depressive disorder (MDD) can be overwhelming. It’s not just about feeling down—MDD often involves a persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness and trouble concentrating or sleeping. In severe cases, MDD can lead to suicidal thoughts, which underscores the importance of finding an effective treatment.
For many, antidepressants are a game-changer in managing MDD and anxiety. But there are often concerns when it comes to popping a pill. While these medications can significantly improve your quality of life, it’s natural to have questions about how they work and what to expect.
Here’s a breakdown of common questions we hear from our clients:
How Do Antidepressants Work?
Most MDD medications work by increasing the amount of chemical messengers in the brain (neurotransmitters) that regulate mood. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine are the key players usually implicated in depression. Though they take time to kick in—usually 4 to 6 weeks—the gradual adjustment helps stabilize mood and energy levels.
SSRIs vs. SNRIs: What’s the Difference?
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) target serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation. They are the most commonly used antidepressants and usually the first thing most providers will try. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and paroxetine (Paxil).
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine, which influence energy and mood. They are often prescribed to clients who have depression as well as pain disorders. Examples include duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine (Effexor), levomilnacipran (Fetzima) and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq).
5 Answers to Common Questions
Will Antidepressants Make Me Suicidal?
Some medications carry a warning about increased suicidal thoughts in young adults during the early weeks of treatment. While this risk is rare, it’s important to stay in close contact with your provider during this period to monitor any worrisome changes in mood or thoughts.
Will They Cause Weight Gain?
Weight changes can occur, but they aren’t guaranteed. Factors like your medication type, genetics and lifestyle play a role. If weight gain or loss becomes an issue, we can explore alternative medications or strategies.
Will They Change My Personality?
Antidepressants don’t turn you into someone else. Their goal is to lift the fog of depression so you can feel like yourself again. If you feel numb or “off,” discuss this with our provider—who may adjust your dose or medication.
Are They Addictive?
Antidepressants are not addictive. They don’t cause cravings or a “high.” However, stopping them abruptly can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms. So it’s never a good idea to stop cold turkey. Always taper off under medical guidance.
What About My Sex Life?
Some antidepressants can affect libido or sexual performance, but not everyone experiences these side effects. If this becomes an issue, talk to your provider about adjusting your treatment plan.
Medication Isn’t the Only Option
While antidepressants can be life-changing, they’re most effective when combined with other treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle changes. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help you reframe negative thought patterns and behaviors. Mindfulness techniques can help you change your relationship with depression and break the cycle of rumination about past failures and catastrophizing about the future.
The Bottom Line
Antidepressants are not right for everyone, but with the right approach, they can improve your quality of life and reduce depressive symptoms, especially when paired with therapy. But if you’ve been down the therapy and med route and still aren’t feeling like yourself, talk with your care team about alternative options for those who are resistant to depression medication and need more help.