Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management

Pharmacotherapy in Mental Health

Pharmacotherapy in mental health refers to the use of medications to treat psychiatric disorders by targeting chemical imbalances and neurobiological dysfunctions in the brain. It plays a vital role in the comprehensive management of mental illnesses, often complementing psychotherapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Pharmacological treatment can help alleviate symptoms, stabilize mood, improve functionality, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals affected by mental health conditions. Over the past few decades, advances in neuropsychopharmacology have led to the development of safer, more effective medications with improved tolerability, making pharmacotherapy a cornerstone in the treatment of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and more. One of the most widely used classes of medications in psychiatry is antidepressants, primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and other mood-related conditions. These include Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine and sertraline, and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine and duloxetine. These medications work by increasing the availability of neurotransmitters—particularly serotonin and norepinephrine—in the brain, which helps regulate mood and emotional responses. Although antidepressants may take several weeks to show full therapeutic effects, they are considered safe and effective for long-term use in many patients.