Antidepressants are often prescribed by physicians to support people with anxiety and depression. When used correctly, antidepressants will reduce suicidal thoughts, insomnia, feelings of depression, restlessness, and anxiety. However, when antidepressants are abused, they can lead to addiction and, even worse: death. October is National Antidepressant Awareness Month. During October, observers focus on remembering people who were harmed or killed as a result of antidepressant abuse while raising awareness of mental health treatment. Crestview Recovery Center, a Portland-based mental health treatment center, supports the needs of adults overcoming substance use disorder and dual diagnosis treatment.
Why Is Antidepressant Awareness Important?
Antidepressant awareness is important because it allows us to acknowledge people who have died or been injured due to antidepressant use. According to the CDC, antidepressants are one of the most common therapeutic drugs in the United States. Used correctly, antidepressants can improve a person’s outlook on life. Effective use of antidepressants allows people the opportunity to support their families and find professional success. However, when abused, antidepressants have adverse effects. This is why awareness is so important—users need to be mindful of antidepressant use, how they can protect themselves from addiction and how to recover from mental health conditions.
Antidepressants and Increased Risk of Suicide
Users of antidepressants can be susceptible to suicidal behavior. Here are some behaviors to watch:
- No future plans
- Feeling that life is meaningless
- Feeling hopeless
- Feeling guilty
- Feeling worthless
- Moodiness
- Checking and updating life insurance policies
- Giving away important belongings
- Writing a will
- Oversleeping
- Increased alcohol and drug use
- Insomnia
What Are The Side Effects of Antidepressants?
Although antidepressants are revered for their ability to relieve depression and anxiety, there are some side effects. Here is a list of side effects:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Decreased sex drive
- Excessive sweating
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
- Weight gain
How Can You Support Antidepressant Awareness?
To help people understand the importance of antidepressant abuse, we have to focus on eliminating discrimination and stigmas. People with mental health conditions deserve to be treated with respect. Here are some ways you can actively provide support:
- Share information on social media about the importance of using prescribed antidepressants effectively.
- Share information on social media concerning antidepressant addiction and its effect on users and their families.
- Develop a list of mental health services and treatment centers throughout Portland
- Volunteer at a local or state organization that supports mental health and antidepressant addiction awareness
- Speak to your friends with mental health conditions. Refer them to mental health services if needed.
Depression Treatment in Oregon to Support Mental Health Conditions
The New York Times reports that nearly 25 million Americans have been taking antidepressants for at least two years. This reveals that people are suffering from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. In addition to taking antidepressants, adults can use the services of a depression treatment center in Oregon.
Stop Social Stigmas and Focus on Receiving Care at a Depression Treatment Center in Portland
There is no shame in taking prescribed antidepressants to relieve yourself from stress and reduce depression or anxiety. A depression treatment center in Portland, such as Crestview Recovery Center, will support you in finding the balance necessary to live a good life. Our medical and mental health professionals will help you navigate mental health wellness while also presenting alternatives to alcohol and drugs. We offer treatment for the following mental health conditions:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Substance use disorder
Begin a Depression Treatment Program in Oregon at Crestview Recovery
Abusing antidepressants is dangerous. Misuse of antidepressants can lead to injury and, in some cases, death. Crestview Recovery Center can support you in learning how to navigate your life with a mental health condition. Reach out at 866.262.0531 to discover how we offer comprehensive depression treatment in Oregon.
