Mind4Youth

Author: Maya Dlima

Between 70 to 90 percent of individuals who engage in treatment for mental illness report a significant reduction of symptoms and improved quality of life (1). So why isn’t medicine used as a more frequent treatment option? The field of psychopharmacology, the study of how
medicine can be used to treat various mental health disorders, has been steadily growing since the 1950s.

The use of psychopharmacology has become controversial over time due to the belief that drugs are overused and the side effects are not worth the risk. However, many still feel that drugs can be beneficial in treating the brain for certain conditions (2).

Medications
Psychopharmacology involves the use of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and antipsychotics to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), among other mental disorders.

Antidepressants
First, antidepressants are often prescribed with psychotherapy to help treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (3). The five major types of antidepressants include:
● selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
● serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
● tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
● monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
● atypical antidepressants
These medications work as neurotransmitters, which transmit nerve signals to the corresponding receptors in the brain to regulate mood (4). The availability of these neurotransmitters is characteristically low in individuals with depression, thus correcting dysfunction by altering brain circuits and the chemicals that pass signals to the brain (4).

Anti-Anxiety Medications Similarly, anti-anxiety medications, or benzodiazepines, enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which is a chemical that regulates feelings of calm (5).

Mood Stabilizers Mood stabilizers are another group of drugs used to treat mood disorders, such as mania and depression. Lithium is the most commonly used stabilizing drug and provides significant relief from symptoms by influencing certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are causing mood
disturbances (6).

Stimulants
Next up are stimulants, which play a large role in one’s ability to pay attention, think, and stay motivated. These medications increase stimulation within the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine (7). Used to treat ADHD, stimulants are controlled substances that can lead to substance use disorders if used improperly. Additionally, there are two different types of stimulants:
● Immediate-release (short-acting): effects can last for up to four hours, when individuals come off these medications, they experience a “crash” or decrease in energy level (7)
● Extended-release (long-acting): effects can last from six to 16 hours (depending on the medication), and result in fewer “ups and downs” (7)

Antipsychotics
Lastly, and contradictory to the other types of medications, antipsychotics are most often used to block the dopamine neurotransmitter. Scientists find reason to believe that psychotic experiences are a result of the brain producing too much dopamine, hence why these drugs block dopamine receptors to reduce psychotic symptoms (8). Overall, antipsychotics alter the individual’s brain chemistry so that they no longer experience their symptoms, often improving their quality of life.

The Treatment of Mental Illnesses Psychopharmacology is most often used to offer relief from symptoms of mental illness, improve mood and functioning, and increase the ability to participate in other treatment options (2).

Below are the most common mental illnesses that psychopharmacology is used to treat.
● Depression
● Anxiety
● Bipolar disorder
● Psychosis
● ADHD
● Eating disorders

The medications prescribed by a psychopharmacologist are primarily meant to offer relief from the disorder the individual is suffering from. However, each type of medicine comes with risks to be aware of. The most common risks associated with taking these medications are
dependence, addiction, side effects or adverse reactions, and withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication (2). Regardless, these medicines can largely improve the quality of life for those struggling.

Prescribing Medicine Now that we covered what psychopharmacology is, let’s look into the process that psychopharmacologists go through to ensure they’re prescribing the right medicines. Clinical psychopharmacologists begin with an assessment that involves looking into the individual’s medical history, recent behaviors, and asking symptom-related questions. A physical examination might also be neccesary, which can include scans, blood tests, or a direct examination of the body. This assessment provides insight into the best medication to prescribe to improve the condition of the individual.

Your Next Step If you are unsure whether or not you qualify for a medical prescription, chat with your doctor! Getting an official diagnosis, or an evaluation of your symptoms will help the doctor prescribe you with the medicine that will best help you. If you don’t quality for medication, that’s alright! There are plenty of other options for treatment, such as:

● Psychotherapy
● Cognitive therapy
● Psychoanalysis
● or Alternative therapies

Final Thoughts While psychopharmacology is not necessary for mental health treatment, it can be an option worth considering for those with a moderate to severe case of mental illness. The medications detailed above have been shown to alter brain chemistry by altering the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. This ensures that chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which are known for their positive effects, are being regulated. It is important to be aware of the power of medication when it comes to seeking treatment. Medication isn’t for everyone, but it can a wonderful resource to those with severe symptoms. In a world where taking medicine has become stigmatized and is seen negatively, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Doing what is best for your mental health in a healthy manner is never something to look down upon.

Overall, psychopharmacology is not essential in treating mental health, however, it is an option that has been scientifically shown to benefit individuals with severe cases. There are various options for mental health treatment and it is important to consider what is available to you. While taking medicine should only be considered for certain cases of mental illness, it is important to understand and be knowledgeable about different options.

References

About Mental Illness. (2020). NAMI California. https://namica.org/what-is-mental-illness/#:~:text=The%20best%20treatments%20for%2
0serious

The Role of Psychopharmacology in Treating Mental Health Conditions. (2023, March 13). Texas Psychiatry Associates. https://texaspsych.com/blog/the-role-of-psychopharmacology-in-treating-mental-health-conditions/#:~:text=Psychopharmacological%20 treatment%20can%20be%20an

Sheffler, Z. M., Abdijadid, S., & Patel, P. (2023, May 26). Antidepressants. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538182/

https://www.facebook.com/verywell. (2024, June 10). The 5 Major Types of Antidepressants. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-are-the-major-classes-of antidepressants-1065086#: ~:text=There%20are%20five%20major%20types

Camh. (2012). Anti-Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines). CAMH.
https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/anti-anxiety-medications benzodiazepines#:~:text=What%2 0does%20Anti%2Danxiety%20Medications

Facts About Mood Stabilizers. (n.d.).
https://www.mirecc.va.gov/visn22/Facts_about_Mood_Stabilizers_Veteran_and_Family_Handout.pdf

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, October 6). ADHD Medications: How They Work & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11766-adhd-medication

Mind. (2020, September). Antipsychotics. Www.mind.org.uk.https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/antipsychotics/about-
antipsychotics/#:~:text=Blocking%20the%20action%20of%20dopamine.&text=Dopamine%20is%20a%20neurotransmitter%2C%20which