Depression is a real disease that requires real care. From counseling to medications, there are options for every type of patient. Unfortunately, most people struggling with depression worry that anti-depressants are not going to be effective for them for one reason or another. If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, this guide will help you understand the truth about a few common anti-depressant myths.

Anti-Depressants Change your Personality

One common myth many people believe is that taking anti-depressants will change your personality. While these medications do alter your feelings, anti-depressants should not take away your personality and who you are as an actual person.

Taking anti-depressant medications should not put you in a comatose state and you should not be experiencing any drastic, negative changes in your mood, libido, or energy levels. If you are experiencing serious changes in your personality, be sure to discuss them with your doctor immediately.

Anti-Depressants Cause Weight Gain

All medications have side effects, and some side effects are common with anti-depressant medications. Weight gain can be a side effect of taking anti-depressants. However, it should not be an issue for every patient or every anti-depressant.

If you are concerned about weight gain, talk with your doctor. Certain anti-depressant medications have a higher risk of weight gain than others.

In addition, it is also important to weight out the con of gaining weight compared to the pro of healthy emotional wellness. By taking anti-depressants, you will improve your quality of life, emotionally and physically, even if you do gain a small amount of weight.

Anti-Depressants Have to be Taken for Life

Another myth you may believe is that once you start taking anti-depressants, you will have to continue taking them throughout your entire life. Fortunately, how long you have to take your medication will depend on a variety of factors including your physical and emotional health and the root cause of your depression.

Many people are able to stop taking their anti-depressants without any issues, but some people do experience symptoms of withdrawal if they have been on the medications for a long period of time. To avoid withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of your depression, talk to your doctor about the safest way to ease off the medications.

If you or loved one are dealing with depression, treatment is imperative, even if you worry about the risks of anti-depressants. With this guide, you will have a better understanding of anti-depressant medications. Talk to your doctor about medication or other depression treatment services.