Antidepressants primarily function by altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These chemicals regulate mood, and imbalances can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety. Different classes of antidepressants, including SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), work by either increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters or by modifying their reuptake.