I'm Still Human: Understanding Depression With Kindness (Expanded Edition - 2021)

The most commonly prescribed class of antidepressant is selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which includes Fluvoxamine
(Luvox), Sertraline (Zoloft), Ecitalopram (Lexapro). Antidepressant
is prescribed by a psychiatrist or any other medical doctor. It’s very
important to have proper understanding of antidepressants:
• Antidepressants have very low potential for addiction.
• Antidepressants aren’t sleeping pills or tranquilizers
although they can help with sleep and have a calming effect
(also used in the treatment of anxiety disorders).
• Antidepressants don’t make us violent, uninhibited (e.g.
talkative, sexually preoccupied) or become zombie-like.
They improve mood and allow us to make positive changes
in the way we think and act.
• Antidepressants don’t cause brain damage or memory
problems – it improves concentration and memory.
• Antidepressants don’t cause kidney or liver failure when
taken according to a doctor’s recommendation and with
proper monitoring.
• Antidepressants take a minimum of 2-3 weeks to work.
• Antidepressants need to be continued for at least 6 months
after you are well.
Although it’s generally safe, antidepressant shouldn’t be taken
conveniently like panadol (i.e. easily bought over the counter, taken
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