How SSRIs work for depression and anxiety and how TRD (Treatment Resistant Depression) arises

Just like a lack of insulin can lead to diabetes, a shortage of serotonin can lead to depression. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are antidepressants. When you take these meds, they block the pathway of serotonin recycling, preventing restoring and increasing serotonin levels in your brain.

So, when you take antidepressants, the cell receptors bind with the increased serotonin and send out signals saying, "I'm feeling super cool and amazing!"—which is why you start to feel less depressed. These cell receptors are key players behind all our emotions and signals. Think of them as tiny protein hands that sit on the cell membrane. Just like your hands are attached to your body, these receptors are firmly anchored to the membrane, grabbing onto hormones, neurotransmitters, drugs, and even viruses. But they do not just grasp—they can also detect smells and tastes of serotonin, allowing us to feel and sense various degrees of emotion.

However, our bodies end up using a lot of Serotonin over time with these meds. Since they’re made of protein, these receptors are sensitive to changes in acidity and temperature. They can wear down, especially with aging and prolonged medication use. This may lead to treatment-resistant depression (TRD), requiring stronger antidepressants that might eventually lose effectiveness as well. Early use of SSRIs is important to prevent worsening conditions. While medication is necessary, developing natural alternatives and coping skills is vital to reduce long-term reliance on antidepressants.

But do we really need to take such strong medication? Absolutely! A shortage of serotonin does not just lead to depression; it can also cause broader hormonal and metabolic issues, affecting mental health and the immune system, and potentially leading to serious conditions like cancer. The primary cause of depression in modern individuals is stress, along with genetic and environmental factors (such as diet and exercise). Long-term exposure to stress leads to the excessive release of stress hormones, which ultimately disrupts the body's chemical balance. Therefore, early diagnosis and prevention are crucial, along with the safe scheduling of antidepressants and modifications to lifestyle and mindset.