Antidepressants are medicines that help people who feel very sad or anxious. They can be grouped into a few different types. Here’s an easy breakdown:

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

   • What They're For: These are often used to treat major depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
   • What to Watch For: Some people might have side effects like problems with sex or gaining weight.

2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

   • What They're For: These help with major depression and general anxiety disorder.
   • What to Watch For: If someone stops taking these suddenly, they might feel very uncomfortable.

3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

   • What They're For: These can help with long-lasting pain and to prevent migraines.
   • What to Watch For: If someone takes too much, it can be dangerous, and they have many possible side effects.

To make things better for people using these medicines, doctors can keep a close eye on how they are doing.

They can also create treatment plans that are just right for each person. Sometimes, combining different therapies works better to help manage the symptoms.