💊 What Are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are medications used to treat symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.
✅ How to Take Your Medication
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Take it at the same time every day, usually once daily.
- Some medications should be taken with food; check the instructions.
- Do not skip doses, even if you start feeling better.
- Avoid alcohol while taking antidepressants.
- It can take 2–6 weeks before you start to feel the full benefit.
⚠️ Do NOT Stop Suddenly
Never stop taking your medication without speaking to your doctor, even if you feel well.
Stopping antidepressants abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms or lead to relapse of depression or anxiety.
❗ Signs & Symptoms of Withdrawal
If medication is stopped suddenly or doses are missed, you may experience:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Electric-shock sensations
- Sleep disturbances
- Irritability or mood swings
- Anxiety or agitation
- Flu-like symptoms
Always taper off gradually under medical supervision.
📞 Need Help Now? If you are in crisis or need urgent support, contact the crisis team or emergency services.