Antidepressants are medications widely used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. If you’ve been prescribed an antidepressant – or are simply curious about them – it’s helpful to understand the basics. Knowing the different types, possible side effects, and what to expect when starting treatment can make the process feel far less intimidating. In this guide, we break down the main classes of antidepressants, explain common side effects and why they happen, and outline what the early weeks of treatment typically look like. Types of Antidepressants Antidepressants aren’t all the same. There are several different classes, each working on brain chemistry in its own way: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Often prescribed first because they are effective and generally well tolerated. SNRIs (Serotonin–Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Similar to SSRIs, but they also affect norepinephrine and may help with certain pain conditions. Atyp...

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can be a roller coaster – periods of calm skin followed by sudden flare-ups of red, scaly patches. While the root cause is an overactive immune system (influenced by genetics), everyday factors often tip the balance and trigger a psoriasis outbreak. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers can help you manage psoriasis better and reduce the frequency or severity of flares. Stress and Strong Emotions Stress is a big one. When you experience stress – whether it’s a major life event or daily anxiety – your body releases chemicals that can ramp up inflammation. Psoriasis is fundamentally an inflammatory condition, so it’s highly sensitive to stress levels. Unfortunately, psoriasis flares themselves can create more stress, creating a vicious cycle. Finding ways to manage stress – through relaxation techniques, exercise, adequate sleep, or counselling – can help break this cycle. Illness and Infections Infections ...

  Does heart disease run in your family? If so, you might wonder what that means for your own heart health. Our genes play a significant role in health, especially when it comes to conditions like heart disease. In fact, having a family history of heart disease can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular problems yourself. But family history is not destiny – it’s one risk factor among many. In this article, we’ll explore how genetics and family history influence heart health, what a “strong” family history looks like, and most importantly, what you can do about it. How Family History Affects Heart Disease Risk Heart disease remains one of the top causes of death worldwide. While lifestyle factors (like diet, exercise, and smoking) are major contributors, heredity is also a key piece of the puzzle. You share a lot with your relatives, including genes and often lifestyle habits. If your parents or siblings developed heart disease at a relatively youn...

  Internal haemorrhoids are a very common health issue – in fact, most people will experience haemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Unlike external haemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus and often cause sharp pain, internal haemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and tend to be more subtle. Because internal haemorrhoids usually don’t hurt, many people overlook their early warning signs. This article explains what internal haemorrhoids are and highlights the often-ignored signs and symptoms, so you know when your body is sending you a red flag. What Are Internal Haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids (also known as piles) are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, meaning you typically can’t see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort at first. Straining during bowel movements or other pressure on these veins can cause the internal haemorrhoid to swell and lead to symptoms. Because the r...