Depression Treatment in Kolkata – The Role of Pharmacotherapy

 Depression is, ironically, quite rampant in the city of joy. However, the number of treatment seekers is not that huge. Most people take a lot of time to accept that they actually need treatment for depression. When they do, they are left utterly confused by the wide array of therapies available. In most cases however, the last treatment modality they prefer is pharmacotherapy (or simply put, medications). The common notion is that medications make one drowsy and have long term side effects. The truth however is quite different.

Let us understand what happens to the brain in depression. The “happy chemicals” in the brain networks are in short supply. The mind, as a function of the brain, therefore is unable to feel pleasure. Once that happens, the motivation or drive to work or perform our day- to -day activities is lost. And remember that the brain is the controlling center of the human body. So once there is a dysfunction in the control room, it is quite natural that the entire biological system will crash. That is to say, you lose your sleep, appetite and libido. The body is fatigued easily and the mind is unable to concentrate. Naturally, with no pleasure and no motivation to go on living, the person may turn suicidal.

Now we may try to cheer up the person and go in for art therapy, music, meditation or talk therapy. All these are powerful motivators. But unfortunately, to have a permanent impact on the brain circuits, they have to be done regularly and properly. Most patients, as discussed above, simply lack the motivation to continue with therapy sessions after a while.

Now consider this. We artificially stimulate the brain to produce these “happy chemicals”. All you need to do is to pop a pill daily. The job of the medicine is to make your brain produce those necessary chemicals. Over time, they are able to “rewire” the faulty brain networks so that the “happy chemical factory” is back to functioning mode. That would naturally be the logical and more permanent solution to the problem.

Next, coming to the safety profile. Antidepressant medications are quite safe when prescribed by a psychiatrist. The doctor evaluates each patient properly before writing down the prescription. The antidepressant is selected to match the patient’s profile and requirements. So yes, it is alright to take medications for depression. 


 

But how long should you take them? Remember, that they need to be taken regularly over a few months at least to properly rewire the faulty networks in the brain. Failing to do so will lead to a relapse.

So, for those seeking depression treatment in Kolkata, the most scientific way to go about it would be to visit a psychiatrist and take the prescribed medications regularly. But you need to be regular with your follow-up sessions and discuss any adverse effects you might feel with your doctor instead of discontinuing treatment. Failing to do so will not cure you, even if you have visited the best psychiatrist in Kolkata.

If you are suffering from depression, say yes to pharmacotherapy right from the beginning and your psychiatrist will take you all the way to permanent cure. Just remember to trust your doctor and his/her treatment method.

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