Understanding Antidepressants

What is a common misconception about antidepressants?

• They have no side effects.

• They don't actually do anything.

• They are only for severe depression.

• They are always effective immediately.

What did the 2008 study in PLOS Medicine suggest about antidepressants?

• They are not effective for severe depression.

• They work better for severe symptoms than mild ones.

• They work better than placebos for mild depression.

• They are effective for all types of depression.

Why might antidepressants appear ineffective in some studies?

• They are given to everyone in the same way.

• They are not tested on real patients.

• They are given in too high doses.

• They are only tested for a short period.

What is a key difference between various antidepressants?

• They all increase serotonin in the same way.

• They are all equally effective for everyone.

• They affect neurotransmitters differently.

• They all have the same side effects.

What do SSRIs primarily affect?

• Serotonin

• Acetylcholine

• Dopamine

• Norepinephrine

What is a common side effect of SSRIs?

• Insomnia

• Digestive issues

• Weight gain

• Increased appetite

Why can antidepressants affect the digestive system?

• They increase dopamine in the gut.

• They decrease serotonin in the brain.

• They decrease serotonin in the gut.

• They increase serotonin in the digestive tract.

How long does it typically take for antidepressants to start working?

• 3 months

• Immediately

• 1-2 weeks

• 4-6 weeks

What might explain the delay in antidepressants' effectiveness?

• Direct mood improvement

• Immediate cellular response

• Gradual changes in thought processing

• Immediate neurotransmitter changes

What is the importance of understanding antidepressant misconceptions?

• To prevent all side effects

• To reduce stigma and improve treatment

• To ensure they work immediately

• To avoid taking them