Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health conditions across the globe. Many people who deal with a mental health condition benefit from therapy or support groups. Some also choose to take medication in order to manage their symptoms. But, is that the right choice for you? It’s normal to be hesitant about taking a prescription of any kind. So, it’s important to know what you should expect from anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medication if you think you need it.
With that in mind, let’s cover a few questions you should ask if you believe you need medication for anxiety or depression.
Will Medication “Fix” Your Depression or Anxiety?
One problem people tend to have when they start taking medication for these conditions is expecting a quick fix. In reality, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication are designed to help you manage your symptoms.
Therapy is important because it helps you get to the root of the problem. In talking to someone, you can learn about the underlying cause(s) of your anxiety or depression. Medication can balance out the chemicals in your brain to make things clearer for you. But, will it “cure” anything? Probably not.
If you were to start taking medication and then stop, it would be easy for your symptoms to flare up again. Having a better understanding of your condition and working through it is the best way to fully treat it. But, medication can make it easier to do
What Are the Side Effects?
If you’ve been hesitant to take medication, chances are you’re concerned about the potential side effects. While doing some research on your own can help, it’s best to ask your doctor about what you can expect.
Side effects vary depending on which drug you take. Common ones include headache, nausea, weight fluctuations, dizziness, and changes in mood.
Often these side effects diminish after taking the medication for a while, but sometimes they persist. Sometimes a change in dose can help, as well as shifting when you take the medication (if it makes you drowsy, then take at night, but if it seems to make you more alert, take in the morning, etc). Talk to your doctor about these concerns up front.
Don’t be afraid to ask about more than just what the side effects are. If you’re concerned, dive into why they occur, what they can do, and how long they last. Having a rough idea of what you might experience can help you to feel more prepared as you start taking medication.
How Soon Will the Medication Work?
Again, it’s important not to expect a quick fix from medication. If you take one dose and don’t feel any different, don’t get discouraged. Your symptoms of anxiety and depression didn’t show up overnight. The medication won’t make everything better that quickly, either.
While some people notice a difference more quickly, it is common to expect it can take anywhere from 8-10 weeks for daily anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medication to become fully effective. Other medications are very quick acting (like an asthma rescue inhaler), but are not intended for ongoing continued use.
If you’re still not feeling any different after 2-3 months of taking the medication, talk to your doctor. Most will schedule a follow-up appointment, anyway. If they don’t, make one for yourself. It’s not uncommon to have to make adjustments to your prescription. You may need a higher dose or a different drug, altogether.
Is Medication Right for You?
There isn’t an ideal candidate for medication. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. Sometimes, it’s a personal choice. Other times, your doctor may suggest that therapy is the better option for you.
If you do think you need medication as part of your mental health treatment, it’s important to be comfortable with your decision. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions. When you feel confident about taking something, you can combine it with therapy or other forms of care. Doing so will help you to manage your symptoms sooner, and take back control of your life once more.
