Antidepressants are widely available and routinely used on a daily basis around the world. When a product like this is so recognizable and accepted it is surprising to discover that there are still a lot of misconceptions and myths surrounding them.
There are a number of proven treatment strategies and aids available when it comes to dealing with depression. Antidepressants are one of those options. However, their use and the impact they have on your mind and body are not always fully understood correctly.
Here is a look at some of the most common myths you are likely to hear about antidepressants.
Antidepressants are the only way to help you beat the symptoms of depression
It is easy to understand how some people might think that antidepressants are the only treatment option for helping ease the symptoms of depression. When you consider how prevalent they are in society you could be forgiven for thinking that they are the go-to solution.
This is probably the most common myth. There are a good number of other therapies and treatments available that can be equally effective.
A good example of an alternative to antidepressants would be Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Professional counseling can also deliver positive results to counteract the symptoms of depression.
Antidepressants will change your personality
Another popular myth perpetuated is that taking antidepressants will alter your personality on a permanent basis.
They are actually designed to help you return to the emotional state and personality you had before getting depressed. It is very unusual for someone to lose their core emotions while taking antidepressants. They simply help you to return to the person you have always been.
You have to keep taking antidepressants for life once you start
It is normally advisable to take antidepressants for about six months. Once your depression has been combated you can withdraw from the drug, albeit gradually to minimize any withdrawal symptoms.
You will become addicted to antidepressants
Although you might feel that you are coping better when taking antidepressants it would be wrong to assume that you have become addicted.
Antidepressants are not addictive. The fundamental reason for this is that you don’t need to increase your dosage for the drugs to work, unlike some addictive drugs that can draw you into a cycle of use.
You can experience withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking antidepressants but this should not be confused with addiction.
Antidepressants will work straight away
It is fair to say that you should not expect antidepressants to give you an instant hit of happiness as soon as you take them for the first time.
It is normal for it to take at least two weeks before you feel the positive impact of taking antidepressants. You should not view them as a quick fix.
These are some of the main misconceptions and myths that you are likely to hear about antidepressants. The fact that they are so widely accepted by medical authorities and extensively used to treat the symptoms of depression is a testament to their efficacy.
Once you can confidently separate fact from fiction you will have a clearer and more accurate perception of the role antidepressants play in improving your mental health.