Medications play a key role in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder. People often wonder what exactly do these drugs do in our brains.
Communication in the brain happens with the help of brain cells (neurons) and synapses. This communication relies on the neurotransmitters which are the chemical messengers like dopamine, adrenaline and serotonin. Mental disorders are linked to the imbalance of these chemical transportations.
There are types of antidepressants: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) keep the serotonin, the hormone that is supposed to control our mood, sleep, digestion, etc., longer in synapse so that our mood improves. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine, also known as the noradrenaline; a neurotransmitter and a hormone that plays a role in our body’s response in stressful moments. This leads to a rise in our energy and motivation. Tricyclic antidepressants: the medications that have broader effects but more side effects. They are second-line drugs next to SSRIs.
Antipsychotics are used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They help to reduce the excessive dopamine activity by targeting dopamine receptors in our brain as the excess dopamine receptors cause an increase in the mesolimbic activity, ending up with seeing delusions.
Anxiolytics such as Benzodiazepines increase the calming neurotransmitter and result in fast relaxation. However, it has a risk of addiction. Newer options like Buspirone are safer and they have a lower risk of dependence. The dosages of the medications and individuals’ responses vary since every brain reacts differently in most people.
As a result, psychiatric medications play a huge role in repairing the chemical imbalance in our brains. They lighten the symptoms and regulate our hormones. This way, it is intended to minimize or suppress some mental disorders.