SSRI counselling

Question 1

Check for contraindications

Answer 1

• Suicidal risk
• Mania

Question 2

How the treatment works

Answer 2

• Antidepressants alter the balance of some of the chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters)
• SSRI antidepressants affect a neurotransmitter called serotonin
• Imbalance of this and other neurotransmitters is thought to play a part in causing depression and other conditions

Question 3

Treatment course and how it’s taken

Answer 3

• Once daily tablet
• May be gradually stopped 6 months after feeling better
• Effects in 4-8 weeks

Question 4

Monitoring required

Answer 4

None

Question 5

Side effects

Answer 5

• GI (diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting)
• Appetite and weight change
• Headaches
• Drowsiness (can take at night)
• Anxiety for 2 weeks
• Withdrawal
• May increase risk of suicide in younger patients