Do You Really Need an Antidepressant?

What the Drug Companies Don't Want You to Know About SSRIs

We've all seen a massive TV ad campaign encouraging us to try drugs for depression and anxiety. Over the last ten years it seems like everyone you know from your best friend to your mother's hairdresser's interior decorator has begun popping a little pill that has changed their lives. But is medication right for you? Here are four things to consider before you begin depending on drug therapy.

Consult the right health practitioner

Many people report that the initial prescription came from their general practitioner. Your family doctor is certainly the one to see for the flu, but is she specialized in treating mental illness? Reaganne, 22, spoke to her G.P. about depression following a breakup and was asked to fill out a checklist. "The quiz was produced by a drug company," she said. "It reminded me of those quizzes in women's magazines that determine what zodiac sign your dog's veterinarian should be born under. I can't base major life decisions on a quiz." If you are experiencing the familiar symptoms like sleeping too much or too little, or you just don't enjoy activities as much as you used to, talk to a licensed clinical social worker, a psychologist or even a psychiatrist. You should not only confirm that you are clinically depressed before you try antidepressants, you should see if talk therapy will work first. Besides, if you are experiencing anxiety, you may find that you have a medical problem such as a heart murmur which can mimic the symptoms of anxiety.

SSRIs can cause mania