Shaun, 43, lost his job in March due to a work restructure.  Unable to find something suitable he has become in

Shaun, 43, lost his job in March due to a work restructure.  Unable to find something suitable he has become increasingly worried about finances and feels stressed most of the time, with bouts of sadness, insomnia, accompanied with an inability to get out of bed.  Having experienced a period of depression once before in his 20s, when these feelings continued for two months this time, he sought help from his local doctor.

Shaun’s doctor diagnosed him with depression.  He prescribed escitalopram, and also gave him a two-week prescription for lorazepam to help with his insomnia.

1. From this case study discuss Shaun’s circumstances and symptoms with what you know of depression.
2. Describe the mechanism of action of these two medications and their major adverse effects.
3. Evidence shows that antidepressants take weeks to work. Discuss this mechanism of action.  You should include information on neuroplasticity.