New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that 1 in 5 Americans are currently taking prescription medication to help them manage mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
Although it’s more common than it once was for people to take mental health medications, a lot of people still have questions about them and their effectiveness. For those who are still hesitant about taking mental health medications, answered below are some of the most commonly asked questions about them.
Table of Contents
(click on a question below to be directed quickly)
Are medications necessary for my mental health?
What are SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)?
What are SNRIs (Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)?
What is Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and what is it used for?
What are the different types of sleeping medications?
What are some common Mood Stabilizers?
What are the most common medications for ADHD? How do they work?
What are the most common medications for Anxiety?
What are the most common medications for Depression?
Do providers prescribe supplements for mental health? What do they typically prescribe?
How do I know if I am on the right mental health medication?
Are Medications Necessary for My Mental Health?
Not everyone who struggles with mental health challenges needs to take medication to reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
For some people, non-medication treatments like talk therapy can be highly effective by themselves and provide them with the support they need. For others, though, medication is a useful tool that complements other treatments (such as therapy) and provides more noticeable and longer-lasting results.
What Are SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)?
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are some of the most frequently prescribed mental health medications. These drugs are typically prescribed for people who are dealing with depression and/or anxiety disorders.
According to this report published by Stat Pearls, SSRIs work by limiting the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which plays a key role in mood stabilization and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Limiting serotonin reuptake helps to increase serotonin activity in the brain, which can lead to a better, more stable mood over time.