Are antidepressants really as good as they say they are?

Hi everyone... I was just wondering if antidepressants really work as they should. I've been thinking about taking them, and I was just wondering if they have any side effects or anything I should worry about, or if they don't actually work in the way they should. Thank you to anyone who answers.

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Supervixen · 22-25, M

@lucian: Through the internet, of course :)

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lovelywarpedlemon

I wouldn't suggest them, especially a person your age, but I don't have the authority to judge your physical and mental health. I would first suggest positively adjusting your life and behavior as much as you can with the resources you have. I have no idea what your life and situation are like. So I can't really say. But I know that drugs do have side-effects, and pills aren't always good for you, even if the doctor prescribes them. If there is any way for you to get help, take advantage of those opportunities. That's a good first step. Talk to the school counselor and someone close to you, if you have someone.

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Supervixen · 22-25, M

anomalouslemon: Thank you a lot for the answer, but I don't believe it's going to be as easy as that. I have Bipolar Type 2, and I've heard something that you can't cure with willpower. I've been like this for as long as I can remember. I'll go from a extremely happy state, to a really depressed state in no time. I know you're probably not someone who specializes in this sort of thing, but would it be most ideal to just take it when I'm down instead of taking it all the time? I would love to go to a doctor or a therapist, but I'm afraid I can't. I'll definitely try to get as much information as possible before taking them.

lovelywarpedlemon

@Supervixen: I didn't realize your situation... My unprofessional advice is, if you're on medication, take it how it's prescribed, which means usually at the same time every day. Research the medications you're taking and/or considering as best you can. I know someone with bipolar disorder who somehow manages without medication, but maybe it's better for you to have that aid. I understand pills can be helpful, but I've known a lot of people to abuse them. Just stay conscious and do what you feel is best for you. I wish you well, and I hope you find something that works for you soon.

Supervixen · 22-25, M

@anomalouslemon: Thank you so much for the advice, I hope things are going well for you as well. :) I've decided to take Lithium, it's for the best I've heard it works the best as an antidepressant. I don't want to get completely used to antidepressants, but I just want to use them for now until I'm at a good mental state. It's coming to today at 9:00 PM.

CarmenSanDiego · 41-45, F

I've been so low twice and had to get on them. I remember thinking that my life was perfect, but I had this sadness that I couldn't shake. When things get really bad, I go on Zoloft. I'm on 200 mgs and can mildly feel the effects. I don't have any side effects that I know of, and think I'm going to ask for an increase or a change. Zoloft really worked last time for me... this time, just mildly. Enough to make me smile some days and not be suicidal, so I'm glad.

SW-User

They help but aren't a cure-all. You have to make lifestyle changes and some also seek counselling. As far as I know most antidepressants have side effects when you first start them, but how serious those affect you varies depending on the individual.

IntenseCookie · 26-30, F

I used to take Prozac and it worked for me, but remember that they're not a cure-all. They don't solve all of life's problems but they do help you stay motivated. Your doctor would get more into any potential side effects if you do decide to take them.

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