By Fatima Khan (MPhil Parasitology), Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad
Depression is a common mental health disorder affecting about 5% of adults worldwide. It is diagnosed more frequently in women and, if left untreated, can lead to serious consequences such as suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Fortunately, effective treatments exist, ranging from psychological therapies to medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
What Is Depression?
Depression presents with symptoms including poor concentration, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, disrupted sleep, appetite changes, and fatigue. Various adverse life events increase the risk of developing depression.
There are several types of depression:
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Major Depression: Marked by a depressed mood or loss of interest lasting at least two weeks, significantly impacting daily life.
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Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A less severe but long-lasting form of depression lasting two years or more.
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Perinatal Depression: Occurs during pregnancy (prenatal) or after childbirth (postpartum).
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Seasonal Affective Disorder: Characterized by depression symptoms that begin in late autumn or winter and end in spring or summer.
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Psychotic Depression: Severe depression accompanied by psychotic symptoms like delusions or hallucinations.
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Bipolar Disorder: Includes depressive episodes as well as manic or hypomanic episodes, characterized by elevated or irritable moods.
How Do SSRIs Work?
SSRIs help treat depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter important for regulating mood, emotions, and sleep. SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin, allowing more of it to stay available for communication between nerve cells. Though depression is not caused solely by low serotonin, increasing its availability can relieve symptoms and improve response to treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Treatment Duration and Safety Considerations:
Typically, SSRIs are prescribed for at least six months after symptom improvement to reduce relapse risk. For patients with recurrent depression, treatment may continue for up to two years.
SSRIs can be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in individuals under 18 years after careful evaluation of risks and benefits by healthcare providers. However, caution is advised for people with diabetes, epilepsy, or kidney disease.
Common Side Effects of SSRIs
Some patients experience side effects such as:
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Agitation
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Nausea and diarrhea
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Dizziness and blurred vision
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Reduced libido and sexual dysfunction, including difficulty achieving orgasm and erectile dysfunction in men
It is important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider to manage them effectively and decide the best treatment course.
Conclusion
Depression is a complex but treatable condition. Psychological therapies combined with SSRIs can provide relief and improve quality of life. Awareness of the types of depression, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial. Individuals experiencing symptoms should seek professional advice to receive tailored care.
