how effective is taking anti-depressants?

Ou brains are so amazing - they make changes all the time. That's why we sometimes need a change of dose or a change of medicine altogether. Don't give up - let your doctor help you find a medicine and dose that works. You will feel much, much better when you find the right medicine.

It's true that antideppresants can take up to 6 weeks to realy fully kick in and sometimes a stronger dose is needed or a change of med. I do KNOW that being bipolar, OCD and depression, without my meds I would cetainly be in a rubber room the rest of my life NO KIDDING!!!! My meds are Non negotiable as far as I am concerned!!! Hang in there, work with your doctor and if its possible get into therapy too!!

I too went through a period of severe depression when I was younger. It was a long period of having to try almost all the latest medication they had to offer during that time because like yourself some may work awhile but after that I had relapses again and again. I ended up in hospital so many times for treatment including ECT (sending electric shocks to your brain) and also for psychotheraphy. Don't give up on yourself, it takes time for the doc to find the right medication for you. Let him know all your side effects and discomforts. Hang in there - the light at the end of the tunnel is there.

It is not unusual for antideppessants to work for awhile and then lose their effectiveness. You may see improvement with a stronger dose. This has helped me in the past. If that doesn't work, your doctor may try a new medication. I know it's tough being depressed but with the right medication and therapy, you will get better. Look into a local support group. Talking to other people may help you as well. I'm sure your local hospital can get you information about a support group.