Peak Wellness Psychiatry

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Depression​

What is Depression?

Depression is a serious mood disorder that causes ongoing sadness and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. During a depressive episode, individuals may feel unhappy, irritable, or emotionally empty. The ability to find pleasure in daily life often feels absent, making it hard to function at work, in relationships, or personally.

At Peak Wellness Psychiatry, we provide a holistic approach to online depression treatment. When appropriate, we incorporate medications along with lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and personalized mental health strategies. Our goal is to move you beyond day-to-day symptom management and help you thrive at your best, reaching true mental wellness.

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How is Depression Treated?

Antidepressants 

What are Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are a class of medications commonly used in the treatment of depression and related mood disorders. These medications work by improving the balance of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters), especially serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in regulating mood.

The most frequently prescribed options today are SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Compared to older, first-generation antidepressants, SSRIs and SNRIs are considered safer and have fewer side effects, making them the preferred choice in modern depression treatment.

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SSRIS (SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITORS)

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for major depression. They work by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, allowing more serotonin to be available for neurons. This helps regulate mood and improves the way nerve cells communicate, leading to reduced symptoms of depression.

Common SSRI medications include:

  • Zoloft (sertraline): Often prescribed due to minimal side effects and its calming effect.

  • Prozac (fluoxetine)

  • Celexa (citalopram)

  • Lexapro (escitalopram)

  • Paxil (paroxetine) / Pexeva (paroxetine)

SSRIs are generally considered a safe and effective option in depression treatment, especially for long-term management.

SNRIS (SEROTONIN-NOREPINEPHRINE REUPTAKE INHIBITORS)

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are another effective option for depression treatment. They work by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine—two key neurotransmitters that play an important role in mood regulation. By keeping these chemicals available in the brain longer, SNRIs help improve communication between neurons, reducing symptoms of sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest.

Common SNRI medications include:

  • Cymbalta (duloxetine)

  • Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)

  • Effexor (venlafaxine)

SNRIs are often prescribed when patients need an option beyond SSRIs, especially for major depressive disorder and certain anxiety conditions.