How do antidepressants actually work? | Dean Burnett

A recent article by Deborah Orr regarding her experiences with antidepressants sparked a lot of debate as to their merits and drawbacks. The truth is, they're not as simple or as understood as many might think

Antidepressants; the go-to treatment for depression, or generalised anxiety. It's incredible when you think about it, the fact that you can have a debilitating mood disorder, take a few pills, and feel better. It's unbelievable that medical science has progressed so far that we now fully understand how the human brain produces moods and other emotions, so can manipulate them with designer drugs.

That's right, it is unbelievable. Because it isn't the case. The fact that antidepressants are now so common is something of a mixed blessing. On one hand, anything that helps reduce stigma and lets those afflicted know they aren't alone can only be helpful. Depression is incredibly common, so this awareness can literally save many lives.