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Depression

What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder causing long-lasting sadness and loss of interest in things someone used to enjoy. There are a variety of different depression conditions. However, during a depressive episode, the person experiences feelings of unhappiness, irritability, and emptiness. The desire to take pleasure or interest in activities is absent. 

Peak Wellness Psychiatry provides an holistic approach to online psychiatry. We also can incorporate medications when appropriate, lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and all aspects that encompass your complete wellness. With each patient, our aim is to help you to thrive at your best by moving you from a state of every day symptom management toward optimal mental wellness!

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How is Depression Treated?

Antidepressants 

What are Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are a class of drugs that help treat depression. In general, antidepressants are designed to enhance the transmission of neurotransmitters, especially serotonin and dopamine. The most commonly used antidepressants prescribed are SSRIs and SNRIs, which have less toxicity and improved safety compared to first-generation antidepressants.

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SSRIS (SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITORS)

SSRIs are effective in treating major depression. It works by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into neurons. As a result, serotonin is made available to neurons so signals can be sent more efficiently.

Below is a list of common SSRI medications:

  • Zoloft (sertraline) – has minimal side effects and creates a calming effect
  • Prozac (fluoxetine)
  • Celexa (citalopram)
  • Lexapro (escitalopram)
  • Pexeva (paroxetine)
  • Paxil (paroxetine)

SNRIS (SEROTONIN-NOREPINEPHRINE REUPTAKE INHIBITORS)

SNRIs ease depression by blocking neurotransmitters that transmit information between neurons. SNRIs help relieve depression by blocking the serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake in the brain, making these neurotransmitters readily available for transmission between neurons. 

Below is a list of common SNRI medications: 

  • Cymbalta (duloxetine)
  • Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
  • Effexor (venlafaxine)