Depression no longer seems to get swept under the rug and ignored as often as it once did. There are many different alternatives to treating depression including talk therapy, anti-depression medication, journaling, yoga, and most often a combination of the multitude of therapies which tend to work best.



There are options to help in the recovery process for those suffering with depression.

One of the more common antidepressant drug classes used for treatment of depression today are known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

These drugs may also be referred to as SSRIs. This class of drugs allows serotonin, which is a chemical found in the brain known to help promote positive human emotions, to remain available in the brain for longer periods of time.

Produced by the human body and released when you are feeling happy, serotonin may be inhibited in those suffering from clinical depression causing them to be unable to produce enough of this neurotransmitter to actually feel happy.

In this case, a chemical imbalance may be the cause of your depression. SSRIs have shown to be helpful with relieving symptoms of depression in approximately 60 to 80% of those suffering with this condition.

While there are many different types of SSRIs on the market today, some of the most common include Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil.

Another class of antidepressants that have shown to be effective are known as tricyclics.

While SSRIs work by helping the serotonin that is already available in the brain to hang around for longer periods of time helping to promote better feelings, the tricyclic class of antidepressants work to increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine that are produced.

Tricyclic antidepressants have been around longer than SSRIs and have been found to be useful. But the tricyclics have some negative side effects, often in a manner that is less than desirable. However, for some of those suffering greatly with depression and who have not responded effectively to SSRIs, then a tricyclic antidepressant may be a good choice.

Some of the tricyclics currently on the market include Vivactil, Asendin, Ludiomil and Anafranil.

While you may not choose to begin with antidepressants to treat your depression, at some point it may become a necessary part of your treatment plan.

Both tricyclics and SSRIs have there place in the treatment of depression. Please make sure to seek help if you are battling depression.

Do not take chances with your health.

If antidepressants for depression can help you to get your life back, you must get the medical care you need. Life is too short to do anything less than getting the help you so deserve.