How psychotropic medications work

“Psychiatric medications have a direct impact on the brain. Medications created by scientists have engineered 3D structures that interact with cell receptors in the brain like a key fitting into a lock. When the right key (antidepressants) fits into the lock (cell receptors in the mood center), it sends the signal, “No Depression,” to the brain mood center (Amygdala). This is how medications can help the brain function better and improve mood.

However, medications don’t always work for everyone. This is because each person's body is different and may handle the medicine in its own way. You may have more (or fewer) enzymes, cell receptors, or neurotransmitters than someone else. Your diet may also affect the production of these enzymes or neurotransmitters. Genes, stress, and the environment also play a role.

Thus, it is important to understand how your own body and brain work. This knowledge helps you find the best way to manage your mental health. Finding the right treatment can take time and teamwork, so keep trying and learning what works best for you. While medications can be highly effective and provide quick relief, the complexity of human biology makes it difficult to predict responses precisely. Because biological experimentation on humans is limited and ethically constrained, finding effective treatments often involves a process of trial and error.”