Given that there are multiple medications in various classes to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental-health conditions, Nausheen Hossein, a clinical pharmacist for Vanderbilt Behavioral Health, also suggests asking: Why do you feel this particular medication is appropriate for me and my symptoms?
How soon can I expect results?
The timeline for improvements in symptoms can vary widely. “Stimulants work super quickly, so you will know within a day or two if it helps you,” says Kovacevich.
By contrast, the effects from antidepressants often take four to eight weeks to fully kick in. Keep in mind: Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications don’t always eliminate those feelings entirely. The medications “take the edge off anxiety or depression, making it easier to move through your symptoms or manage them,” says Kovacevich. “You may still have some anxiety or depressive symptoms, but you may feel less stuck and have improvements in your energy, sleep, and appetite.” To get the best results, she adds, it often helps to add in therapy and lifestyle changes alongside medication.