Treating Depresion with SSRIs
by Kevin Caruso
SSRI is an acronym that stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. SSRIs are used quite frequently and effectively in the treatment of depression.
Let me briefly describe about the basics of how SSRIs work:
Neurons are nerve cells. All neurons use chemical messengers, called neurotransmitters, to communicate with each other. There are "gaps" at the end of neurons called synapses. And these synaptic gaps release neurotransmitters when a nerve impulse arrives. The neurotransmitters allow the next cell to fire.
Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter. And when there is inadequate serotonin, you can become depressed. And when you are depressed you can become suicidal.
Serotonin also affects your sleep, appetite, temperature, and secretion of some hormones.
Clearly, serotonin is an extremely important neurotransmitter.
SSRIs help to increase the availability of serotonin to the brain, and thus can effectively treat depression.
Please keep in mind that SSRIs are drugs, and all drugs may cause side effects. So they should only be taken under the close supervision of a psychiatrist.
Examples of SSRIs include:
- Prozac
- Paxil
- Zoloft
- Celexa
Receiving treatment for depression is no different than receiving treatment for any other medical condition. If you need medicine, take medicine.
If you are depressed or suicidal and need help, please get it now.
If you are suicidal, please call 911 or 1-800-SUICIDE.
If you are not seeing a therapist or a psychiatrist, please make an appointment as soon as possible.
You can get better. So please take action.
And remember that depression is extremely common and highly treatable.
If you need help, please get it now.
Take care.
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please go to the Home Page of this website for immediate help.
Thank you.
I love you.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
