Here’s What Antidepressant Abuse Will Do to Your Body and Mind
Many individuals report feeling depressed these days. Of those that do, some seek treatment. Out of this group, many are prescribed antidepressants by doctors or therapists. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that. However, if a drug starts making someone feel better, there is always the chance that they will abuse it.
That is certainly true with antidepressants, just like it is with many other kinds of substances. Outpatient drug rehab centers in Utah are available for those who live there and who have gotten into trouble with antidepressants. If you’re in this situation, you should consider finding an appropriate treatment facility.
If you’re using antidepressants excessively and don’t think it’s that big of a deal, it may surprise you to learn what these substances can do to you if you overindulge. Let’s discuss that in detail now.
What These Drugs Can Do to Your Body
If you abuse antidepressants, you might soon find yourself dealing with sensations that are a lot worse than depression. Some of those who abuse these drugs can experience panic attacks or heightened feelings of anxiety. They might notice an increased heart rate. They can experience migraines, vomiting, or nausea.
Others might have motor control problems. They may have hallucinations or feel dizzy. Lethargy is also an issue in some cases.
What They Can Do To Your Mind
The mental issues that come from misusing antidepressants are just as concerning. Often, those who misuse these substances report feeling detached from reality. Others might feel restless or agitated.
Some people can even become violent or suicidal. Ironically, many individuals who increase their dosage of antidepressants without a doctor’s permission may start to feel far more depressed than they did before they started treatment.
How To Avoid Misusing These Drugs
What’s vital to understand about these substances is that even though they have legitimate medical uses and you might be getting them with a doctor’s prescription, that does not mean that there’s no danger if you misuse them. It’s not by accident that a doctor starts you on a certain set amount of these drugs. If you tamper with the dosage without telling your doctor, you have no way of knowing which of the effects we mentioned you might end up dealing with.
The best way to avoid the harmful effects that antidepressants can have on your mind and body is to stick rigidly to the amount your doctor or therapist gave you. If they said to take one per day, do that. If they said to take one as needed, then do that instead.
If you find that you’re not getting the best results from them that way, don’t panic, and don’t change the dosage amount on your own. Instead, tell your doctor or therapist so they can adjust the dose for you.
It may take some adjustments to get on the right drug to make you feel better and to take the proper amount. Just let a professional make those adjustments instead of doing it yourself.