Antidepressants
What are they?
Antidepressants are prescription medications that help relieve symptoms of depression, such as low mood, anxiety, or feelings of worthlessness. They’re also sometimes used to treat other conditions, including:
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic pain
There are several types of antidepressants. They each work in slightly different ways to affect brain chemicals involved in mood and emotion. Each type of medication affects the brain differently, so it can take time to find the one that works best for someone. It also can take several weeks for antidepressants to start improving mood or energy levels.
How they work
Antidepressants help balance chemicals in the brain that affect mood, sleep, and thinking. The most common of these chemicals are serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Antidepressants: Antidepressants don’t create a “high.” Instead, they gradually adjust brain activity to reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety. This change can take place over several weeks. Because there are several different types of antidepressants, it may take time to find one that works best for someone. Health care providers can help find the best fit.
Short-term effects
When starting antidepressants, people may notice:
- Improved sleep or appetite (after several days or weeks)
- Temporary side effects such as:
-
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Drowsiness or insomnia
- Dry mouth or sweating
- Headaches or dizziness
- Sexual side effects (reduced desire)
These side effects often fade after the first few weeks as the body adjusts.
Long-term effects
With continued use, antidepressants can:
- Help regulate mood and reduce anxiety
- Improve concentration, energy, and sleep
- Reduce suicidal thoughts or hopelessness
However, stopping suddenly or missing doses can cause “discontinuation” symptoms, such as:
- Dizziness
- Irritability or low mood
- Flu-like symptoms
- Sleep disturbance
It’s best to stop or switch medications slowly only under medical supervision.
Important note: A rare side effect is initial worsening of depression and self-harm thoughts before improvement. If this happens to you or someone you know, call 988 or reach out to a health care provider as soon as possible for help.
Impacts on mental health
Antidepressants are designed to support mental health, but the effects can vary. They often work best when combined with:
- Therapy
- Social support
- Healthy coping strategies - Some examples of coping strategies include mindfulness, journaling, exercise, self-care, and therapy.
For some, antidepressants help reduce severe depression or anxiety, making it easier to manage stress and daily life. For others, antidepressants might cause emotional “blunting” or less intense feelings, both positive and negative.
If mood worsens or suicidal thoughts appear when taking an antidepressant, it’s important to reach out for help right away. Talk to a doctor, counselor, or trusted person, or call 988 for mental health support.
FAQ's
Can you get addicted to antidepressants?
Can you get addicted to antidepressants?
Antidepressants don’t cause addiction or cravings. Stopping antidepressants suddenly can cause withdrawal-like symptoms. That’s why it’s best to taper off under medical supervision.
Can I take antidepressants with other medications or alcohol?
Can I take antidepressants with other medications or alcohol?
Always talk to your health care provider before mixing antidepressants with other drugs or alcohol. Some combinations can cause serious side effects or make your antidepressant less effective.
It’s safest to avoid alcohol, especially when starting or adjusting your medication. Alcohol can interfere with how antidepressants work, making symptoms of depression or anxiety worse. The combination can also increase side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired coordination.
Alcohol can interfere with antidepressants in several ways:
- It can undo progress. Antidepressants help rebalance brain chemistry, but alcohol can lead to chemical imbalances.
- It disrupts sleep. Alcohol might help you fall asleep, but it prevents deep, restorative rest that is important for mental health and recovery.
- It can cause dangerous reactions. Mixing alcohol with older antidepressants can dangerously raise blood pressure.
If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to drink while taking medications, talk with your health care provider. If you find it hard to limit alcohol, support is available. Reach out to a health care provider or call 988 for help.