Major depressive disorder (MDD) is more than just a cycle of feeling down or feeling like you’ve got the “blues.” MDD can cause long-lasting symptoms that interrupt your ability to function in day-to-day life. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone; more than 20 million U.S. adults have experienced a major depressive episode at least once in their lives. 

If you’ve been experiencing depressive symptoms for many months on end, you may find yourself wondering if there is really a cure for depression. While there is not one magical cure-all for depression, medication can help reduce depressive symptoms and help you find a path forward. 

What is a depressive episode? 

Let’s look at this fictional example: For the past two weeks, Ana has just not felt like herself. She stays in bed until the afternoon almost every day, when normally, she would wake up early for her morning yoga class. Ana would rather lie in bed, as yoga doesn’t seem to be as enjoyable anymore. On top of that, she can’t seem to remember what her nieces and nephews wanted for the holidays, even though they’ve told her numerous times. With the holidays coming up soon, Ana can’t help but feel this overwhelming sense of doom. 

Common signs and symptoms of a depressive episode 

• Feelings of emptiness or hopelessness 
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities 
• Exhaustion, lack of energy 
• Restlessness and insomnia, or sleeping too much 
• Memory disruptions 
• Slowing down of speech or body movements 

There are many treatment options for those who feel depression has deeply impacted their life. Typically, medication can be prescribed by a healthcare professional as a first-line treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. Medication is often combined with an additional treatment method such as psychotherapy, or virtual outpatient care. 

What kind of medicines are available? 

There are multiple classes of antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are considered first-generation antidepressants, meaning they were among the earliest antidepressants developed. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are second-generation antidepressants, meaning they are (relatively) newer medications used to treat depressive symptoms. 

4 ways medication management can support long-term recovery 

• Relief from emotional or behavioral symptoms — Medication is most often recommended for people experiencing moderate to severe depression. Antidepressants aim to reduce the intensity of the negative symptoms associated with depression, such as those listed above. 
• Reducing the risk of recurring depression — Antidepressants also help lower the chances that depressive symptoms return. It is recommended that once a prescribed antidepressant is effective for you, you consistently take it, often for at least six to 12 months, so your body can receive the full benefit of treatment. 
• Improved functioning in day-to-day life — As noted above, severe depression can impact daily function and prevent you from feeling able to complete responsibilities and tasks. Severe depression can also interfere with relationships or performance at work or school. By reducing the severity of depressive symptoms, medication can allow you the freedom to better manage stress, maintain relationships and perform daily functions without feeling as weighed down. 
• Reduction of some physical symptoms — Depressive symptoms can present themselves as physical pains or illnesses. These might include headaches, stomachaches, or back pain. By targeting the mental symptoms of depression, medication may also help reduce these physical symptoms. 

ReKlame Health provides safe and empathetic care for depression 

Medication can be an effective treatment option for people with depression, easing their symptoms and helping them find hope for enjoying life again. Antidepressants may be prescribed based on your individual symptoms and personal treatment goals. 

At ReKlame, we provide virtual psychiatric and medication management services. Our team of culturally competent, empathetic and understanding experts is here to empower you through your mental health journey. During treatment, you will have a psychiatric nurse practitioner who can make a diagnosis and prescribe medication, adjusting your dose as needed. Your care navigator will be there to guide you in scheduling appointments and connect you with helpful resources.

You’ve got this. Ready to book your first session today? Appointments are available — give our care team a call today. For more information, check your eligibility for free online or book an initial appointment online.