Antidepressants & SSRIs
Medications that help rebalance mood and support emotional wellbeing.
Antidepressants are one part of an integrated, whole person care plan at Mind Matters Mental Health. Our providers combine medication management with therapy, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing support to help patients achieve lasting emotional balance and improved daily functioning. When antidepressants are recommended, the decision is based on a careful evaluation of each person’s needs, medical history, and treatment goals. Our clinicians closely monitor progress, adjust medications as needed, and coordinate care with therapists to ensure treatment remains safe and effective. If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or related conditions, our psychiatry team can help you explore your options with antidepressants. Request an appointment or contact us for a medication evaluation to take the next step toward feeling better.
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What are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are a class of medications that are primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder, several anxiety disorders (such as generalised anxiety or panic disorder), and in some cases other symptoms like persistent sadness, low energy, irritability or disrupted sleep. These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and/or dopamine, which play a role in regulating mood, motivation and stress responses.
How Do Antidepressants Work?
Antidepressants work by helping balance certain chemicals in the brain that influence mood, energy, and focus. When these chemicals are out of balance, symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, or low motivation can develop. By restoring this balance, antidepressants can help improve mood and emotional stability over time. Our providers consider symptoms, medical history, age, other medications, and overall health when prescribing anti depressants. Because response and tolerance vary, antidepressants are always prescribed and monitored by our psychiatrists.
When & How Antidepressants Are Used
Antidepressants are most often prescribed for conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. They may also be used in certain cases for chronic pain, sleep problems, or post traumatic stress disorder. These medications are available in different forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. The dosage and specific medication type depend on individual needs and may be adjusted over time to find the most effective and tolerable dose. All treatment decisions, including starting, stopping, or changing antidepressant medication, should be made under our provider’s supervision.
Types of Antidepressants
SSRI: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
SSRIs increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. They are often the first line treatment for depression and anxiety because they are effective and generally well tolerated. Common SSRIs include Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), and Escitalopram (Lexapro).
SNRI: Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
SNRIs boost both serotonin and norepinephrine. This dual action can help improve mood and also reduce physical symptoms such as low energy or pain that sometimes accompany depression. Common SNRIs include Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) and Duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Atypical Antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants don’t fit neatly into other categories. They affect different brain chemicals depending on the medication. Some may increase dopamine or norepinephrine, while others influence serotonin indirectly. These medications are often used when SSRIs or SNRIs aren’t effective or cause unwanted side effects. Common atypical antidepressants include Bupropion (Wellbutrin), Mirtazapine (Remeron), and Trazodone (Desyrel).
TCA: Tricyclic Antidepressants
TCAs are an older class of antidepressants that increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. They can be effective but are used less often today because they tend to cause more side effects and may interact with other medications. Common TCAs include Amitriptyline (Elavil) and Nortriptyline (Pamelor).
MAOI: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
MAOIs block the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This increases the availability of these neurotransmitters in the brain. Because MAOIs can interact with certain foods and medications, they are typically prescribed when other treatments have not been effective. Common MAOIs include Phenelzine (Nardil) and Tranylcypromine (Parnate).
Benefits of Antidepressants - What to Expect
Many people notice gradual improvement in mood, energy, and overall daily functioning after starting antidepressant treatment. Some experience reduced sadness, anxiety, and irritability, while others find it easier to focus and engage in activities they once enjoyed. Changes often begin within a few weeks, though full effects can take several weeks to develop. Individual results vary, and regular follow up with our providers help track progress and make any needed adjustments. Medication is one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Antidepressants are often most effective when combined with therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing support from a mental health professional.
Side Effects & Risk Considerations
Common side effects can include mild nausea, headache, or sleep changes, which often improve over time. In rare cases, mood changes or thoughts of self harm may occur. Contact your provider right away if these develop. Providers review each patient’s health, other medications, and life factors such as pregnancy or age to ensure antidepressants are used safely. This information is general and not a substitute for personalized medical advice.
