How are medications used to treat mental disorders?

Medications treat the symptoms of mental disorders. They cannot cure the disorder, but they make people feel better so they can function.

Medications work differently for different people. Some people get great results from medications and only need them for a short time. For example, a person with depression may feel much better after taking a medication for a few months, and may never need it again. People with disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or people who have long-term or severe depression or anxiety may need to take medication for a much longer time.

Some people get side effects from medications and other people don't. Doses can be small or large, depending on the medication and the person. Factors that can affect how medications work in people include:

• Type of mental disorder, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
• Age, sex, and body size
• Physical illnesses
• Habits like smoking and drinking
• Liver and kidney function
• Genetics
• Other medications and herbal/vitamin supplements
• Diet
• Whether medications are taken as prescribed.

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