Antidepressants are not a quick fix, doctors say
Clinicians advise patients to view medication as one part of a larger treatment plan that includes therapy and physical health checks.
By Matthew Brooks ·
For individuals in Cook County experiencing persistent low mood, sleep disruption, or energy loss for weeks, doctors say it is time to evaluate treatment options. When these symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, medical professionals recommend considering antidepressants as part of a support strategy.
Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, emphasized that treatment plans vary by person. She noted that a triggering event can sometimes start a downward spiral that is difficult to reverse on one's own. Rogers stated that if quality of life is affected, patients might want to look into antidepressant therapy. She clarified that these medications do not eliminate sadness or act as "happy pills." Instead, they alter the chemical imbalance in the brain to help individuals reach a better place.
Gerontologist "Sam" Cradduck reinforced that medication changes brain chemistry but does not change external circumstances. She warned that taking a pill alone is not enough. Cradduck said patients need to be willing to face the issues that led to their low mood, often through talk therapy. She noted that the conversation does not have to be with a traditional therapist but must address the root causes to prevent the cycle from continuing.
Aging expert Amy O'Rourke recommended finding a psychiatrist for a thorough assessment to decide on the right drug and dose. She advised patients to track how the medication affects them. O'Rourke described a client who experienced a racing heartbeat and sweating, feeling like a panic attack. After calling her psychiatrist, the client was switched to a different medication. O'Rourke said she would want to know the withdrawal symptoms before starting any antidepressant.
Rogers added that people do not respond to the same drugs in the same way. She suggested that if financial resources allow, genetic testing can be a worthwhile investment to determine how a person responds to specific medications. She also noted that there are many withdrawal symptoms, so patients cannot stop the medication abruptly.
Katherine Ambrose, an aging well coach, suggested combining medication with journaling and talk therapy. Rogers reminded patients to check for physical issues like thyroid imbalances, hormone problems, or nutritional deficiencies that could contribute to depression. Ambrose urged patients to seek answers and try various approaches to help bring themselves back.
The medical professionals provided this information for educational purposes and noted it does not constitute a physician-patient relationship. They advised consulting a licensed physician for personal medical advice.
