Depression Medication For Mental Health Symptoms Of Depression

Depression is an umbrella term for the various depressive disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). In some cases, depression can be severe, causing marked impairments in almost every aspect of life. Daily tasks can be challenging or impossible for those living with this condition.  

Exploring depression medication and treatment options for symptoms of depression

Some people consider medication or medical treatments to cope with the symptoms of depression while partaking in other forms of treatment, like therapy. Understanding antidepressants may help you understand whether you want to try this treatment format and discuss options with your doctor.

In more complex cases, individuals may face severe depression that doesn’t ease with initial therapy alone, and healthcare providers might explore atypical antidepressants when standard SSRIs aren’t enough. Early on, some notice depression symptoms shift as they begin taking antidepressants, though they should watch for antidepressant discontinuation syndrome if the medication is stopped too quickly.

What is depression?

Understanding the symptoms of depression may help you understand what symptoms medications for the condition can target. Feeling sad or experiencing a negative frame of mind for a short time can be healthy and normal. However, clinical depression is different and causes moderate to severe functional difficulties. Disorders like major depressive disorder (major depression) last for two weeks or more, and persistent depressive disorder (PDD) can last for over two years. 

People with commonly prescribed antidepressants often combine medication with therapy for best results, while others may avoid medication if they fear weight gain. Some also take other medications for sleep or anxiety alongside their depression drugs, especially if they have treatment-resistant depression.

Clinical depression, sometimes called major depression, can only be diagnosed by a licensed counselor, therapist, or doctor. Depression medications are considered controlled substances. To be prescribed medication, individuals can speak to a doctor, such as a psychiatrist, to determine the best medication for their symptoms.

Many discuss health insurance coverage before starting a long course of meds, and it's possible to see particular symptoms shift once medication begins. Some patients learn that antidepressants' addictive concerns shape how they approach stopping them.

Considerations before taking antidepressants & medications to treat depression

Below are a few considerations to keep in mind before taking antidepressants. 

Underlying conditions

There is no "happy pill" that can eliminate all the symptoms of depression instantly. Taking depression medications does not “cure” mental illness but is often a temporary solution to symptom management. Multiple medications are used to treat depression, but none are a one-size-fits-all solution.

Those with chronic health issues, like chronic pain, may need dose adjustments, and some may be advised not to drink alcohol while on certain medications. If suicidal thoughts or elevated suicide risk appear, they should seek immediate medical help.

Each person can have unique reactions to pharmaceuticals. What works for one person might not work for another because, in addition to depression, they may also be living with another medical condition. Someone with kidney, heart, or liver disease who wants to go on medication for depression may have limited options, as these conditions can render some medications for depression unsafe. For this reason, discuss your underlying conditions and symptoms with your doctor before settling on an option.

Dosage of your medications

The first depression medication you take may not cause significant symptom reduction. If you're looking for complete remission, your doctor might lead you through experimenting with the dosage. Several factors, including genetic variables, body size, and physiology, can determine whether a medication works for you. In addition, a combination approach of therapy and medication may be more effective for depression than medication alone. 

Many start on SSRI medications before trying other antidepressants, and a medication like Paxil CR might be chosen for certain sleep or appetite issues. Discuss possible side effects with your provider, such as if you start to experience flu-like symptoms.

Combining options for multiple symptoms of depression

Some people may take multiple medications for their symptoms instead of just one. If you're experiencing multiple symptoms of depression, like insomnia, a lack of energy, and difficulty feeling happy, your psychiatrist may prescribe a medication for each symptom. They may add a stimulant if mild depression leaves them unable to focus, and some might notice how their brain cells respond differently once medication starts working.

Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp is a flexible, convenient way to get treatment for other mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder and postpartum depression. When you sign up, you’ll be matched with a qualified therapist, and you can start quickly, often within a few hours or days. In addition, you can contact your therapist throughout the week using messaging. Studies by the National Institute of Mental Health show that remote care can yield significant improvement, and commonly reported benefits include feeling heard and better able to continue daily tasks. If someone feels worse or experiences withdrawal-like symptoms, they’re advised to call their provider or the nearest emergency room to get immediate medical help.

The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medications or medical treatment options may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Types of depression medications: Antidepressants

Antidepressants are often recommended as the first option to treat depression. They are commonly prescribed alongside psychotherapy. When you attend therapy and take medications, the medication may manage your symptoms so you can focus on the lessons you're learning in therapy. 

Sometimes, people with severe depression need higher doses or additional drugs to feel a change. Many start taking antidepressants and stick with them through the first few weeks to see if they help. Some worry about weight gain, but providers can switch to commonly prescribed antidepressants with a lower risk. If side effects become troubling, it may help to know about antidepressant discontinuation syndrome so you can plan a safe taper.

There are several types of antidepressants to discuss with your doctor. If one isn't working, your doctor might change the dose, go to a different medication in the same class, or try different types of antidepressants altogether.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac), increase levels of serotonin in the brain for those with low serotonin to reduce the impacts of depression. These medications were first used in the 1980s and are the most common class for depression.

The side effects of SSRIs may be considered milder and may include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, libido changes, and an upset stomach. While you may experience some of these effects during the early administration of the medication, your body may adjust to them over time.

Some people switch SSRI brands if other forms of SSRI medications don’t help. Others may add a second drug—sometimes a different antidepressant—to gain more relief. Rarely, patients must head to the nearest emergency room if they develop serotonin syndrome from too many interacting medications. Talking openly about these risks can reduce fear and improve outcomes. Researchers sometimes combine serotonin modulators with talk therapy to see if the dual approach speeds up mood stabilization.

SNRIs

SNRIs are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. SNRIs increase serotonin and the reuptake process of norepinephrine. They're a new depression medication compared to the other subcategories. Side effects may be similar to the side effects of SSRIs, causing sexual challenges, an upset stomach, insomnia, fatigue, and dizziness for some individuals. Side effects can vary based on individual factors.

Because SNRIs can sometimes raise suicide risk in early use, monitoring is key. A few patients notice suicidal thoughts ease only after adding a mood stabilizer. Some find a better balance by combining SNRIs with talk therapy rather than jumping to prescription medications alone. In cases of postpartum depression, providers often favor SNRIs for their faster action on mood.

Tricyclic antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants were some of the first to be used as a treatment for clinical depression and may have higher risks. Side effects of tricyclic antidepressants may include changes in blood sugar levels, changes in blood pressure, dizziness, weight gain, dry mouth, and upset stomach. Talk to your doctor if you experience side effects from any medication. 

Medications used with antidepressants

If antidepressants alone are not managing your symptoms, your doctor may recommend alternative or conjunctive treatments like the following. 

Some people find that taking antidepressants alone isn’t enough, so their provider may add an antipsychotic or mood stabilizer. In early trials, those taking depression medications sometimes worry about weight gain or fatigue and discuss these concerns with their doctor. A few learn about antidepressant discontinuation syndrome and plan a slow taper to avoid unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. When medications interact, there’s a slight chance of serotonin syndrome, especially if someone uses serotonin modulators or mixes drugs by mistake. Some clinicians study how specific serotonin modulators affect sleep patterns when combined with antidepressants to improve overall treatment response.

Antipsychotic medication

The term "antipsychotic" does not necessarily mean antipsychotic medications are used only for psychosis. These medications are prescribed for various mental illnesses and challenges. These medications are often used to treat mood swings and mania. A combination of an antipsychotic and an antidepressant might sometimes be recommended for conditions like bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder (BPD). 

In some cases, doctors add a low-dose antipsychotic to taking antidepressants to manage severe mood swings. If someone feels jittery or ill, they may be advised to call their doctor. A few patients see faster relief when taking depression medications together rather than one at a time. It’s rare, but mixing certain drugs can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Lithium 

Your doctor might try lithium for depression in some cases, which is a common medication for people living with bipolar disorder. Lithium can have mood-stabilizing effects that put people at a "baseline," evening out their moods so that they don't experience the highs and lows of mania, hypomania, and depression that occur with bipolar disorder. 

Because lithium isn’t an antidepressant medicine, it’s often paired with SSRIs or other antidepressants when treatment-resistant depression is present. Some worry about too much serotonin when combining drugs, so doctors watch for side effects. If side effects appear, a switch to commonly prescribed antidepressant medicines may follow.

Stimulants 

In some cases, stimulants are used for people with depression. Your doctor might have you try a medication or supplement that is not typically used to manage depression. If that's the case, talk with your doctor about any concerns.

How to get the most from your depression treatment

Determining the best depression medication for you can involve trial and error. In addition, some people may decide they do not want to take medication or have barriers to doing so. Feeling frustrated may not be uncommon if you don't see results immediately. When you begin medication for depression, follow your doctor’s instructions, pay attention to how you're feeling, and report any problems to your doctor. Below are a few other ways to get the most from your treatment. 

Have a social support network in place

Having a support network may help you cope when receiving treatment for depression. A support network might include family and friends, and it could extend to teachers, guidance counselors, co-workers, religious organizations, or your therapist. Be honest with those closest to you about your experience, and let them know if there's any way they can support you in your treatment. 

Only use the prescribed dosage

Use the prescribed dosage of your medication. Some medications for depression can take up to eight weeks to show effects, so don't raise the dosage yourself if you believe the medication isn't working. Taking your medication incorrectly can be dangerous and sometimes fatal. Talk to your doctor if you believe your medication is not working or is causing unwanted side effects. 

Develop healthy medication habits 

Take your medication at the same time every day. If your doctor asks you to take them with food, do so to avoid unwanted side effects. If you struggle to remain on time with your medication, get a weekly pill box and a medication alarm. 

Report side effects to your doctor 

Report any side effects to your doctor, and try not to give up on your medication if side effects appear. Stopping medication without consulting your doctor can lead to withdrawal effects which may sometimes be dangerous. 

Your doctor may have medical advice about alleviating side effects if they occur and may be able to tell you whether a side effect is dangerous. In addition, notify your doctor if you are prescribed medication by another healthcare professional. Some medications have harmful interactions. 

Don't mix substances with depression medication

Do not mix alcohol, marijuana, or illicit substances with your depression meds. Some of the reactions could be damaging, and diluting your prescribed medication may make it not work as effectively. In some cases, mixing substances with medication can be lethal. 

Talk to a therapist 

There is some evidence that combining medication with psychotherapy may be more effective than either option alone. If your doctor recommends therapy as part of your treatment plan or if you want to talk to someone about your symptoms, therapy online or in your area could be an option.  

Online therapy for help with mental health conditions, such as depression

Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp is a flexible, convenient way to get treatment for mental disorders, including major depressive disorder and postpartum depression. When you sign up, you'll be matched with a qualified therapist, and you can start quickly, often within 48 hours. In addition, you can contact your therapist throughout the week using messaging. 

Research shows that online treatment is effective for treating depression. One review of 17 studies found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy (I-CBT) was more effective than in-person treatment and that participants were equally as satisfied with their results.