What Journalists Need to Know About Antidepressants

As the usage of antidepressants continues to rise, so does the level of scrutiny surrounding them. These medications rank among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States, with recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicating that over one in eight Americans aged 18 and above have recently used them.

Despite the prevalence of antidepressant usage, concerns regarding their safety and efficacy frequently emerge in media reports. Though a healthy number of precautions should be taken before starting antidepressants, these concerns usually stem from a lack of understanding and first-hand experience.

Journalists should ensure they offer an impartial perspective on both the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of antidepressants.

Antidepressants Are Only Part of the Solution

The predominant categories of antidepressants, namely selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), possess the capacity to mitigate severe symptoms and even save lives. However, they constitute just one substantial component within the broader framework of achieving genuine mental well-being. 

While the potential existence of a chemical imbalance in the brain warrants investigation when conventional methods like diet and exercise prove insufficient, it is imperative to maintain these healthy habits alongside medication. Engaging in regular exercise, prioritizing proper nutrition, attending weekly therapy sessions, and delving into the root causes of one's struggles are all critical steps toward affecting lasting and meaningful change in an individual's life.

Trial And Error Is Likely and Will Take Longer Than Expected

Given that each person's brain chemistry is distinct, it's inevitable that the journey toward finding an effective treatment may involve a process of trial and error. This approach is necessary to discern what truly works for each individual, as it's the only way to gain clarity in such matters. The key for those seeking treatment is to remain resilient and not lose hope if initial attempts prove unsuccessful.

Theresa Gaffney reports for STAT that the journey to finding the appropriate antidepressant treatment for individuals with depression can be arduous, often involving months of trial and error. However, emerging research on biomarkers offers promising prospects for pinpointing the most suitable antidepressant from the outset. "This trial-and-error process can overwhelm and demoralize patients, potentially dissuading some from seeking further treatment," observes Gaffney. 

Patients may have to grapple with side effects such as intense nausea or temporary vision loss, even when finding an effective antidepressant relatively swiftly. The whole ordeal may take months and can cause the patient to feel disheartened, but it is more than likely that the process will eventually lead to the desired results.

Antidepressants Might Be Temporary or They Might Not Be

Dr. Michelle Tricamo, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York, emphasizes the temptation individuals may feel to discontinue antidepressants prematurely. She warns against this impulse, drawing a parallel to the importance of completing a full course of antibiotics to prevent relapse. "It's crucial not to discontinue antidepressants prematurely," Tricamo cautions. "Similar to the need for completing antibiotics, we want individuals to maintain their medication regimen until it's appropriate to stop."

Tricamo notes that typically, psychiatrists recommend individuals to be relatively symptom-free for approximately a year before discussing the possibility of discontinuing medication, ensuring that any improvements in mental health are sustainable. However, she underscores that the duration of antidepressant use is less significant than the process of tapering off the medication under medical supervision.

"More crucial than the duration of antidepressant use is the method of discontinuation. It's imperative not to attempt to stop them independently," Tricamo stresses. "A doctor can guide you through a carefully planned tapering process to minimize withdrawal effects."

Overall, journalists should approach sources taking antidepressants with empathy, sensitivity, and a commitment to accuracy and integrity in reporting their stories. By centering the voices and experiences of those directly impacted by antidepressant treatment, journalists can help cultivate greater understanding, awareness, and support for mental health issues.