Should I Consider Taking Antidepressants?

Depression does not look the same in everyone. We all experience and feel depression differently, and for different reasons. Going to therapy is a great start in tackling low moods, but we may need an extra boost to improve our emotional stability and quality of life. If you find yourself having difficulty with daily tasks like getting out of bed, eating, sleeping, or leaving the house, it may be worth it to consider taking antidepressants.

What are antidepressants?

Antidepressants are medications that can help to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. For example, say you suffer from social anxiety and find yourself unable to function in social situations without feelings of panic. Antidepressants can help you feel more at ease in these situations so that you can enjoy social interactions. Antidepressants also help with symptoms of depression. For example, a lot of us tend to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD. You may find yourself feeling more down in the winter months. This can lead to feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and can even be accompanied by crying spells. Not only can antidepressants help in these short term situations of SAD, but they can also help those of us who experience feelings of depression daily. 

Are there different types of antidepressants?

There are many different types of antidepressants that exist, which is great when you are trying to find what works best for you. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs, are the most common type of antidepressant. SSRIs are used to treat social anxiety, depression, panic disorders and post traumatic stress disorder. Lexapro and Prozac are common names of antidepressants in this category.

Serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs, are another common type of antidepressant. SNRIs are used to treat panic disorders, anxiety and depression. Other types of antidepressants are tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tetracyclic antidepressants (TeCAs) and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (DRIs). These are all used to treat depression and anxiety as well, but they are not as common as the first two types of antidepressants that we discussed. There are many ways to learn more about the different types of antidepressants and what may work best for you. Your therapist can refer you to a psychiatrist, or you can explore different online providers that have medical providers that prescribe antidepressants such as Hers or BetterHelp. 

Are antidepressants safe?

Safety is an important question when considering taking any type of medication. We definitely want to make sure that antidepressants are safe as well. Speaking to a healthcare provider can ensure that the medication you are prescribed aligns with your healthcare history and goals. Research shows that antidepressants are in fact safe. They can even be used in populations that are more vulnerable, like pregnant women or those with other healthcare issues.

While you are taking antidepressants, you will be under the care of a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist will check in with you regarding any side effects and how you are feeling. It is important to be aware of anything new that you may notice with your mind and body so that you can tell your psychiatrist, therapist, and/or doctor. This helps you to keep track of how the medication is working for you. It also helps your provider decide if they need to change your dose or the type of medication prescribed.

When should I consider taking antidepressants?

Thinking about taking antidepressants can be a scary feeling. Sometimes we do not have anyone to discuss these feelings with. Our friends or family may not agree with our decision to take antidepressants. It can be hard when our support system is not in agreement with our decisions. This is why it is also important to discuss your feelings with your therapist. Your therapist will be able to explore the process of taking antidepressants with you and support you in whatever decision you decide to make.

How will I feel about taking antidepressants?

It is important to remember that it is your decision to decide if you want to take antidepressants. You should be proud of yourself for thinking of ways to improve your quality of life and overall mood. Sometimes feelings of embarrassment can come with taking antidepressants. You may wonder why you are not able to feel better on your own, or why talk therapy isn’t enough to make you feel better everyday. These feelings are completely normal. Your therapist can help you to process these feelings and alleviate shame or embarrassment. You should also make sure that you are regularly seeing your therapist when you are taking antidepressants. You can continue to check in about any new feelings that may arise.  Support is very much needed during this new process.

Read more about being in therapy while taking medication

Taking antidepressants can be a scary experience at first. There is a lot to learn about antidepressants, so it is important to have a psychiatrist and therapist that you trust. Remember that considering or deciding to take antidepressants  does not make you weak. In fact, it makes you strong that you are able to notice that you need the extra help. 

Do you have experience with taking antidepressants? Join the conversation in the comments below!