Psychopharmacology
These popular antidepressants increase serotonin by blocking its reuptake
SSRIs
this treatment is often used when severe depression resists medication.
ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)
This method gradually exposes a person to their phobia without danger.
exposure therapy
This neurotransmitter, nicknamed the “feel-good chemical,” is often low in depression.
serotonin
Just 30 minutes of this activity a day can significantly reduce mild depressive symptoms.
aerobic exercise
This mood stabilizer, discovered accidentally, remains the gold-standard treatment for bipolar disorder.
lithium
This noninvasive technique uses magnetic pulses to activate specific brain regions.
TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation)
A treatment where unwanted behaviors are paired with unpleasant stimuli to reduce them.
aversive conditioning
Many antipsychotics work by blocking receptors for this neurotransmitter.
dopamine
Exposure to bright light is a frontline treatment for this seasonal mood disorder.
SAD (seasonal affective disorder)
Clozapine and risperidone belong to this class, designed to reduce both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
atypical antipsychotics
This rare surgical intervention removes or damages brain tissue to alter behavior.
psychosurgery (or lobotomy)
This therapy, created by Aaron Beck, challenges distorted patterns of thinking.
cognitive therapy
These twin brain structures are central in fear conditioning and anxiety.
amygdalae
This supplement, found in fish oil, is sometimes used to support mood stabilization.
omega-3 fatty acids
These fast-acting anti-anxiety drugs enhance GABA activity but carry a risk of dependence.
benzodiazepines
This implantable device stimulates a cranial nerve to help treat depression and epilepsy.
vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)
Used in institutions, this system reinforces desired actions with symbolic rewards.
token economy
Chronic antidepressant use can increase neurogenesis in this memory-linked structure.
hippocampus
A key component of ACT and DBT, this practice increases awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of thoughts.
mindfulness
This older antidepressant class can cause dangerous hypertensive reactions when paired with foods high in tyramine.
MAOIs
Electrodes implanted deep within the brain deliver targeted stimulation to treat Parkinson’s, OCD, and depression.
deep brain stimulation (DBS)
The core skill in CBT where patients identify, dispute, and replace maladaptive thoughts.
cognitive restructuring
Frequently underactive in major depression, this brain region regulates decision-making and emotional control.
prefrontal cortex
This traditional treatment involves inserting fine needles to influence energy flow through meridians.
acupuncture