While therapy is essential for treating anxiety and depression, medication can also play a role in your mental health journey. 

There are several different types of medicine that may be effective in helping you manage your anxiety and depression symptoms. If you’re unsure about how they all differ and how they can work to improve your mental health, we’re here to help.

4 types of anxiety and depression medicines you may be prescribed

When you’re diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, a healthcare provider can help you determine the best treatment option. Every teen experiencing a mental health challenge or condition can benefit from talking to a psychotherapist. However, if you’re experiencing severe anxiety or depression that you’re having trouble managing on your own, or solely with therapy, you may be prescribed medication. 

You’ve probably heard the names of dozens of anxiety and depression medications. That can be confusing. Not only are there brand and generic names for prescription drugs, but they all fall under broader umbrella types of medications. By learning about the different groups of medications for anxiety and depression, you can collaborate with your providers to determine which may be the best fit.

Here are four types of medicine commonly used to treat anxiety and depression:

1. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) — SSRIs are antidepressants. They are often prescribed to people experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms that they need help managing. SSRIs are the most common type of prescribed antidepressants; they have fewer side effects than others, according to the Mayo Clinic. SSRIs work by boosting the serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a hormone and neurotransmitter that affects mood regulation. Brand names of SSRIs include Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft.

2. serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) — SNRIs are a similar type of antidepressant to SSRIs. The difference is that they target norepinephrine along with serotonin. Norepinephrine regulates the body’s stress response, including the “fight-or-flight” instinct. Many people who experience depression tend to have low levels of norepinephrine. On the other hand, some anxiety disorders may have heightened levels. SNRIs work to balance them out. Brand names of SNRIs include Cymbalta, Effexor and Fetzima.

3. monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — Due to a long list of side effects and severe safety concerns, MAOIs are antidepressants that are often only considered if other options haven’t been effective for depression. It’s a potential option for treatment-resistant depression. On top of serotonin and norepinephrine, MAOIs also increase the levels of dopamine in the brain. This hormone helps provide feelings of reward, pleasure and motivation. Brand names include Emsam, Marplan and Nardil.

4. benzodiazepines — Some people who experience generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder or depression may be prescribed a sedative, such as a benzodiazepine. Commonly referred to as benzos, these sedatives are a type of depressant. They slow down the nervous system, which helps provide feelings of relaxation, calmness and even euphoria. While benzodiazepines can reduce anxiety disorder and depression symptoms, they may be combined with antidepressants for the best results. Brand names include Xanax and Valium.

You can be prescribed medicine for your anxiety and depression by your general physician or a psychiatrist. They’ll choose the type that they believe will be the safest and most effective option for you. They’ll consider your symptoms, your medical history and potential side effects.

Embrace U can provide teens with medicine management for anxiety and depression

Not every teen diagnosed with anxiety and depression requires medication. However, it can play a part in helping people experiencing severe mental health symptoms improve their quality of life. The number of medicines out there can be confusing when you look at things like the side effects and efficacy rate. The right medication management can ensure that you’re taking the best possible option for your needs. That also means making adjustments when required.

At Embrace U, medication management is a pillar in both our intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. We help adolescents aged 10 to 18 who are experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms and need more intensive care beyond outpatient psychotherapy. By combining medication with individual therapy, group therapy and family counseling, we can help you work toward becoming the person you want to be. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.