Can Anxiety and Depression be cured through medication?

One of the most common questions, we psychotherapists and registered clinical counsellors hear in our everyday work from our clients is ‘ Should I choose medication to help me through my anxiety or depression?’ and honestly their is no clear cut answer to this. You almost have to think what will be the benefits of adding medication to my current regime? Will their be negative side effects? By taking medication - am i looking for the easy fix? Do I have first hand experience of using medication of mental health conditions or am i basing my opinion on experiences of others?

I will say that anxiety and depression can often be helped by medication. Medication is one of the treatment options available for managing these mental health conditions, and it can be effective in many cases but we call MD’s practitioners for a reason. People’s experiences with medications can be unique. As clinical counsellors and psychotherapists, we often advocate that medication alone may not always be sufficient, and a combination of medication and psychotherapy (talk therapy), art therapy, trauma therapy, relationship counselling is often recommended for the best outcomes.

• Here are some common types of medications used to treat anxiety and depression:

  1. Antidepressants: These medications are commonly prescribed for both depression and anxiety disorders. There are several classes of antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and others. They work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain and can help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.

  2. Anti-anxiety medications: Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that are sometimes prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms. However, they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

  3. Mood stabilizers: These medications are often used for individuals with bipolar disorder, a condition that can involve periods of depression and mania. Mood stabilizers help regulate mood swings.

  4. Atypical antipsychotics: In some cases, atypical antipsychotic medications may be prescribed as an adjunct to antidepressants or as a primary treatment for certain mood disorders.

  I often tell folks I support that let’s get to the root cause of your issues. When we take a deep dive into psyche, we can get more clarity around our issues, we can reset our nervous system and process our trauma. I am proud to be a certified EMDR clinician and consultant in training who can help support clients through traumatic life events.

  Circling back to our topic of conversation, let’s understand that the choice of medication and the dosage should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider based on an individual's specific symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Additionally, medication may take some time to show its full effect, and there can be side effects or adverse reactions that need to be monitored. Be kind, compassionate and patient with yourself.

  Medication is just one part of the treatment plan for anxiety and depression. Psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family can also play crucial roles in managing these conditions. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or depression, direct them to our team so they can be fully supported and we can develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.