Expectations
The amount of time it takes for antidepressants to start to impact your mood
2-4 weeks
Transient
This myth about psychiatric medications makes patients think the drugs are similar to things such as opioids, cocaine, or alcohol
Fear of addiction
This neurotransmitter is the primary target for many antidepressants and helps regulate mood, arousal, appetite, and sleep
Serotonin
The amount of time someone may need to take an antidepressant or antipsychotic
1+ years
These three aspects of health can help deter weight gain from medication therapy
Proper diet, exercise, and sleep
This myth about psych meds may lead patients to stop taking their medications
You can stop taking medications once you feel better
This neurotransmitter is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain
GABA
The factors influencing how long someone may need to take a mental health medication
Severity of illness
Frequency of illness
Length of illness
These illicit substances may increase sexual dysfunction with mental health medications
Marijuana, alcohol, tobacco
This myth about medications may lead patients to think that medications are not working
Rapid benefits
This neurotransmitter is implicated in eliciting a fear response (fight or flight) and can also impact pain response
Norepinephrine
The amount of time it takes for antipsychotics to reduce irritability or anger
1-3 days
Resolution of this symptom of depression or anxiety may be a sign that medications are working, but can be considered a side effect by patients
Appetite (Increased appetite/weight gain)
This myth about medications is actually an undesirable side effect and would likely warrant a change in therapy
"Zombie like" effect
This neurotransmitter is the primary neurotransmitter indicated in pleasure, concentration, motivation, and learning
Dopamine