Tag Archives: reactive depression

When Antidepressants aren’t the best option (3)

Antidepressants can make an enormous difference to the quality of life of sufferers of both depression and anxiety. But as we discussed in When Antidepressants aren’t the best option (1) and (2), there are cases when antidepressants should not be prescribed, or should be used in conjunction with other therapies. Let’s look at another case study. Collette’s children have both left home and her husband, Bryan, sustained mild brain damage in a workplace accident and no longer works. A former nurse, Collette is responsible for the daily care of her husband plus her usual chores. But because of Bryan’s head … Continue reading →

When Antidepressants aren’t the best option (2)

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Antidepressants can be, quite literally, lifesavers. Yet as we saw in When Antidepressants aren’t the best option (1), these drugs aren’t always the best treatment for depression. Let’s look at some scenarios where antidepressants are being prescribed inappropriately. John’s wife died three months ago, and he has lost interest in his hobbies, moves aimlessly around the house starting tasks but seldom completing them. He is not sleeping well, wakes early in the morning, and has all but lost his appetite. John is showing many of the early signs of depression and his doctor has supplied him with a prescription for … Continue reading →