Discussion: Neurobiology and Pharmacological

Discussion: Neurobiology and PharmacologicalDeveloping appropriate pharmacological treatment plans requires medical and mental health professionals to consider all potential factors that may be contributing to the client’s psychopathology. Contributing factors may include family history of mental illness (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2010), personal history, life circumstances, and drug abuse. Additionally, neurotransmitter malfunctions (genetic or self-induced) may manifest as diagnosable mental illnesses. Mental health care teams (e.g., counselors, medical doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and support teams) need to consider all of these factors in diagnosing and treating psychopathology.

For this Discussion, review the document “Neurobiology Considerations Case Study: Suzy” found in this week’s Learning Resources and consider the recommendations you might make to treat Suzy.

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·       Post a brief description of the possible pharmacological recommendations for treating Suzy.

·       Explain any neurobiological considerations that inform your recommendations.

·       Explain the benefits and limitations of your recommendations.

·       Justify your recommendations based on the Learning Resources and current literature.

References (use 2 or more)

·       Lichtblau, L. (2011). Psychopharmacology demystified. Clifton Park, NY: Delmar, Cengage Learning.

·       Preston, J. D., O’Neal, J. H., & Talaga, M. C. (2017). Handbook of clinical psychopharmacology for therapists (8th ed.). Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.

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·       National Institute of Mental Health. (2008). Introduction: Mental health medications. Retrieved from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/mental-health-medications/index.shtml

·       National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2014). Brain basics: Understanding sleep. Retrieved on from http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/brain_basics/understanding_sleep.htm#sleep_disorders

·       Document: Neurobiology Considerations Case Study: Suzy (PDF)

Depression as a medical disorder increasingly is being recognized and treated. The mood of an individual with major depression is often described as sad, hopeless, or discouraged, and there are many physical symptoms associated with depression. Pharmacologic treatments for depression have advanced greatly since the development of the first therapies, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Many medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), currently are available to help combat this health problem. Newer medications have eliminated many of the side effects associated with older therapies, and treatments in development are designed with the goal of further improving on efficacy while eliminating side effects.

Introduction

Depression has received increased attention recently because of the growing recognition of itsprevalence. Once misunderstood and stigmatized, depression now is regarded as a biological condition. Management of depressed patients increasingly involves healthcare professionals other than psychiatrists. To assist these healthcare professionals, this article provides a basic description of depression and describes currently available pharmacotherapies for treating depression, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).