You are using a browser we no longer support. Current functionality may be reduced and some features may not work properly. For a more optimal geha.com experience, please click here for a list of supported browsers.

Spotting the signs of depression

GEHA | May 3, 2021

Everyday health Health and wellness How to's Mental health Telemedicine
Depression can be treated effectively if medication is taken regularly, as prescribed.

Depression is more than feeling a bit blue or being down in the dumps. Depression is a brain disorder, caused by any number of factors, including genetics, environment, psychology and biochemistry. More than 20 million Americans have depression.

Some signs of depression include:

  • Loss of interest or joy in formerly enjoyable activities
  • Weight change
  • Changes in sleep patterns or habits
  • Lethargy
  • Devalued self-worth
  • Perpetual sadness
  • Thinking about harming yourself

Depression is often treated with a combination of talk therapy and antidepressant medication. GEHA medical plan members have access to telebehavioral health services though MDLIVE. Licensed therapists are available by appointment via secure video. You can activate your MDLIVE account online or by calling 888.912.1183.

The most commonly prescribed type of antidepressants are serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These work by stopping the brain from reabsorbing serotonin, a chemical in the brain that helps with feelings of well-being and happiness and helps with thinking, memory, sleep, digestion and circulation. When the brain is prevented from reabsorbing this chemical, it leaves more serotonin available in the brain, improving the user’s mood. Some brand-name SSRIs include ZOLOFT®, Prozac®, Celexa® and Lexapro®.

Other types of antidepressants include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs, which increase the level of serotonin and norepinephrine created by the brain and block the brain’s ability to reabsorb the chemicals. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for short-term anxiety management. Tricylic antidepressants and ketamine are other older types of antidepressants.

All these medicines work to elevate the mood of the user. For reasons doctors do not yet know, some patients respond better to one type of antidepressant than another. In fact, some people need to try several antidepressants before they find the one that works best.

Whether you take an antidepressant for a long time or are just starting, it is crucial to take them as instructed and not change the dosage without consulting your doctor. You might feel better while taking the antidepressant, assume the depression has lifted and stop taking the medication. The depression may return if this happens.

Remember, antidepressants work by altering the chemistry in the brain. They are powerful drugs. When it is time to stop – or change – a doctor will help the patient safely and slowly reduce the dosage. Patients can’t become addicted to antidepressants, but the body needs time to adjust to the changes. Ending medication suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

The most common side effects from antidepressants include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Weight gain
  • Diarrhea
  • Sleepiness
  • Sexual problems

Contact a doctor immediately if you have thoughts about suicide or dying, worsening depression or anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, aggressive behavior, mania or other unusual changes in behavior or mood.

If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.TALK (800.273.8255); TTY: 800.799.4TTY (800.799.4889).

Sources:
“SSRIs and Benzodiazepines for General Anxiety Disorders (GAD).” www.adaa.org, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 26 May, 2020.
“Mental Health Medications.” nimh.nih.gov, National Institute of Mental Health, October, 2016.
“Pharmacologic Management of Adult Depression.” www.aafp.org, American Academy of Family Physicians, 15 March 2008.