text: Depression is one of the major mental health problems in the world. Treatment, therapy and medication for it are at an all time high. Anti-depressants are now more widely used than ever. These medical drugs are usually prescribed by medical professionals to relieve the usual symptoms of depression such as prolonged feelings of helplessness, gloominess, apathy, and decreased energy. While effective at first, remember that these are usually not long-term solutions. Unpleasant and sometimes dangerous side effects could sometimes come along with prolonged use of anti-depressants. One should learn the risks that come along with taking these drugs.
  One of the main reasons why people stop continuing their treatment is the nasty side-effects that come along with anti-depressants. Some side-effects last only for a short time, just a few weeks or so; while some effects may not go away. Anti-depressants have a whole slew of bad side-effects like nausea, fatigue, insomnia, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, blurred vision, anxiety, and constipation. This article focuses on a hated side effect of anti-depressants: increased appetite.
  Certain anti-depressant drugs like Buproprion (Wellbutrin) and SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are known to increase appetite. These chemicals will cause a lot of people taking these drugs to gain a whole lot of weight, which may further decrease the effectiveness of their treatment. To offset this side-effect, patients are advised to exercise at least an hour a day, and to eat healthy food. Cutting back on sugar and other sweet foods is also strongly advised.
  There has been some speculative research that anti-depressants may not be as effective as they are advertised. SSRIs, the most prescribed anti-depressant drug, has recently come under fire for reportedly having very dangerous side-effects. They may decrease bone mass in older adults and have serious withdrawal symptoms.
  In the end, one should be able to weigh the risks of these side-effects against the benefits of the cure and treatment of the disease that they are supposed to be treating. Side-effects are only one problem. One should not depend on drugs alone, but should also access other help and support such as counselling, therapy and alternative medicine such as hypnotherapy to overcome their depression.
  If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression it is very important to access help and support immediately to start the recovery process. There is undoubtedly a lot of different kinds of treatments for depression which are effective from the more traditional to the alternative. Just remember that it is possible to start the journey to recovery so don't delay, get the help and support that is needed.