How to know if your antidepressant is working

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It might take three to four months for you to notice that your antidepressants are working. You might also need to try several different medications before finding the one that is right for you, so it is important to be patient with your antidepressants. They are not quick-fix “happy pills.” They are not going to make you suddenly feel happy; that is something that you have to work out. What antidepressants can do is help you function again. 

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How antidepressants work

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People who suffer from depression have an improper balance of chemicals in the brain. Antidepressants are designed to balance these chemicals. Antidepressants specifically target neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that deliver information about emotions, behavior, etc. Neurotransmitters influence how serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine work on the brain. 

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3 Characteristics of Social Anxiety Disorder

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Social anxiety disorder is a form of chronic anxiety directly caused by social environments and interactions. Someone who suffers from this disorder is in a constant state of fear and worry concerning the thoughts of others referring to him or her. Below are some characteristics associated with social anxiety disorder. 

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3 Cures for Depression

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Although not everyone needs medication for there depression, in many cases, it just requires some changes in daily routine to aid in improving your mood. Here are some things to do for depression: 

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Addictive Behaviors of Prescription Drug Abusers

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Some of the most frequently abused prescription drugs include Vicodin, OxyContin, Xanax, Ritalin and Adderall.  For those abusing prescription drugs, some common behaviors can be indicative that a problem with addiction may be present.  Some obvious red flags include the following:  requesting frequent prescription refills, random medical appointments, frequently switching doctors, lying, previous or current illicit drug use, lack of pain relief with any prescription drug, and asking for prescription drugs from family members.  Other behaviors that may be signs of abuse include problems at work or decreased social activity and the refusal of random drug screenings.   

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Who is abusing prescription drugs?

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With the increase in the abuse of prescription drugs the question of who is abusing prescription drugs becomes a relevant one.  Are abusers from the middle or upper class or are most of them college students looking to have a good time?  Perhaps they can be found on the street, panhandling for every dollar they get. The answer is prescription drug abusers can be found in all of these categories and more. They are doctors, fathers and mothers, teenagers, college students, prostitutes, truck drivers – basically they come from all walks of life.   

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College Students and Prescription Drug Abuse

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Drug abuse among college students is becoming a problem. According to a 2004 survey of college students, it is estimated that 7.4 percent have used the painkiller known as Vicodin without a prescription.  Prescription drug abuse is highest among men. Prescription drug abuse is also higher at schools located in the Northeast, among Whites and among fraternity and sorority members.   

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Pregnant Women and Prescription Drug Abuse

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There is a negative effect on the quality of life for those abusing prescription drugs. However, for pregnant women in this situation the concern is for the mother as well as the unborn child.  It has been determined that around five percent of pregnant women have used illicit drugs at some time during their pregnancy.  And the sad fact is this estimate is considered to be on the low end.  The affects on the mother and unborn child include a higher risk for pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, delivery complications, not enough weight gain by the mother, postpartum depression, maternal suicide and a host of issues after the infant’s birth. 

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