Psychotropic medication is an umbrella term for meds used to treat mental health disorders. They work by adjusting levels of the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
There are several types of psychotropic meds. Some of these are anti-anxiety medications, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors antidepressants(SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressants (SNRIs), anti-psychotics, and mood stabilizers. Psychotropic medications are used to treat a wide variety of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.
1 in 6 US adults takes a psychotropic medication.[1] The most common type taken is antidepressants, followed by anti-anxiety and anti-psychotic meds.
Not everyone who has a mental health disorder requires medication. However, meds can help ease symptoms so that a person can have better daily functioning and improved quality of life. Most often, therapy will be recommended in addition to medication, to supplement the person’s mental health treatment.
If you are struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, there is help available. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for mental health disorders and addiction in facilities across the country. Our staff—many of whom are in recovery themselves—will help you process the underlying reasons you used substances and build a life in recovery. Call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.
[1] https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/1-in-6-americans-takes-a-psychiatric-drug/