Signs Your Antidepressant Dose is Too Low

If you have sought medical help for depression, chances are your doctor prescribed an antidepressant to help relieve symptoms. However, antidepressants take several weeks before the effects begin to make a difference. If, after six weeks or so, you are not seeing improvement, let your doctor know. They can adjust or change the drug if needed.

About Depression

Major depressive disorder is a complex mental health disorder affecting 21 million adults every year. Symptoms of depression may include:

• Persistent low mood and feelings of hopelessness
• Diminished interest or pleasure in daily activities once enjoyed
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Change in sleep patterns
• Slowed or agitated movements
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Check out our free online depression quiz here.

Here are some of the risk factors for depression:

Genetics. A strong family history of depression or mental illness can increase the risk.

Brain chemistry. Neural activity and brain chemistry imbalances may affect mood regulation.

Personality traits. Some temperaments may make it harder to manage stress.

Life events. Trauma, abuse, grief, divorce, or financial hardship can trigger depression.

Health conditions. Conditions like cancer, stroke, HIV, or Parkinson’s may contribute to depression.

Medications. Some medications can cause depressive symptoms as side effects.

Understanding Antidepressants

Antidepressants are used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. They’re often combined with psychotherapy.

Types of antidepressants include:

• SSRI
• SNRI
• Tricyclic
• MAOI
• Atypical

Antidepressants are effective for about half of patients. It usually takes 4-6 weeks to feel effects. If one doesn’t work, your doctor might suggest another. It’s normal to try a few before finding the right one. If antidepressants don’t work, there