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[‹ Blog](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog) What you should know about medication for depression # What you should know about medication for depression Our psychiatrists explain what you need to know about depression medication, including what to expect and how to get started. Reviewed by: Sophia Monsour, DO \| [View bio](https://www.talkiatry.com/team-members/sophia-monsour-do) August 3, 2023 Original source: ## Key takeaways [](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-to-get-medication-for-depression)[](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-to-get-medication-for-depression)[](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-to-get-medication-for-depression) [https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-to-get-medication-for-depression](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/how-to-get-medication-for-depression) [It’s estimated](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression) that almost 7% of adults struggle with depression (aka [major depressive disorder](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/major-depressive-disorder-mdd)), making it among the more common mental health conditions. Of course, just because it’s common, doesn’t mean it’s easy to live with. Symptoms of depression can feel unbearable. If you’re living with depression, it’s natural to want to get help fast. One of the most common treatments for depression is medication, and there’s a range of medications that can help manage your symptoms. While you should only get medication from a licensed provider, the good news is that finding one can be easy. We turned to our staff of psychiatrists to find out exactly how to do it. ## What are the symptoms of depression? Many people confuse depression with everyday “sadness.” But it’s important to know that there’s a difference between everyday sadness and depression. Everyone feels sad from time to time; that’s a normal, even healthy, part of the human experience. However, depression goes well beyond periodic sadness. Depression causes feelings of extreme sadness or hopelessness, as well as a lack of interest or pleasure in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed. Other symptoms of depression may include: - Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions - Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt - Increased fatigue or loss of energy - Restlessness or sluggishness - Sleep problems—sleeping too little or too much - Changes in appetite—unintentional weight gain or weight loss - Thoughts of death or thoughts of suicide These symptoms have been present for at least 2 weeks (although in many cases much longer) and are severe enough to interfere with your everyday life. ## How is depression treated? Generally, depression is treated with a combination of talk therapy and medication. If your depression is very mild, it’s possible your provider will recommend concentrating just on therapy. [Cognitive behavioral therapy](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-and-understanding-our-feelings) (CBT), is one effective talk therapy option. CBT for depression focuses on problem solving and re-routing negative thought patterns. Most people living with depression, however, respond best to a combination of therapy *and* medication. The goal is to help correct the chemical imbalances in the brain that are thought to contribute to the development of depression. The most prescribed medications for depression are antidepressants. ## What are antidepressants? Antidepressants are a type of medication that increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, in the brain. They are most often prescribed to treat depression, but can also be used to treat other conditions, like anxiety, chronic pain, [insomnia](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-insomnia-treatment), [OCD](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-ocd-treatment), or [PTSD](https://www.talkiatry.com/ptsd-treatment-online). (Learn more about [depression vs. anxiety](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/anxiety-vs-depression).) ## How do antidepressants work? There are several different types of antidepressants, and each works differently, but the overall goal of this type of medication is to correct imbalances in neurotransmitters which lead to the development of depression or other mental health conditions. Your brain produces different neurotransmitters which affect your mood, sleep, and bodily functions. These include serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. In people living with depression or other mental health conditions, the levels of these neurotransmitters can be depleted. Antidepressants are [thought to increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410405/) these levels, which can help stabilize your mood. ## What are the main types of antidepressants? The main types of antidepressants include SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants), and atypical antidepressants. ### SSRIs SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are among the most prescribed types of antidepressants, and include [Prozac](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/prozac-for-anxiety) (fluoxetine), [Lexapro](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/lexapro-for-anxiety) (escitalopram), Paxil (paroxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Celexa (citalopram). These drugs [work](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help stabilize your mood, emotions, and sleep. ### SNRIs SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are another commonly prescribed class of antidepressant. Some common SNRIs are [Cymbalta](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cymbalta-duloxetine-anxiety-depression) (duloxetine), Effexor (venlafaxine), Pristiq (desvenlafaxine), and Savella (milnacipran). These drugs [increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/) the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. For more on the difference between SSRIs and SNRIS, check out: [SSRis vs SNRIS](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/ssri-vs-snri). ### TCAs [TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants)](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-tca-list) also [increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557791/#:~:text=They%20block%20the%20reuptake%20of,to%20its%20anti-depressive%20effect.) the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, but have the potential to affect more body systems than newer SSRIs or SNRIs. These drugs may be an effective option for people whose depression is resistant to other medications, but they come with more side effects. Common TCAs include Elavil (amitryptiline), Norpramin (desipramine), Asendin (amoxapine), Silenor (doxepin), and Tofranil. ### MAOIs [MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/maois-list) increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by blocking them from being broken down. While MAOIs were the first antidepressants introduced, they are not the first choice in treating mental health disorders due to several dietary restrictions, side effects, and safety concerns. MAOIs are only a treatment option when all other medications are unsuccessful. Examples of MAOIs include Marplan (isocarboxazid), Nardil (phenelzine), Emsam (selegiline), and Parnate (tranylcypromine). ### Atypical antidepressants Atypical antidepressants work differently than any other class of antidepressant. Many have multiple mechanisms of action, which means they don’t fit neatly into any other class, although they all work to increase levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Common atypical antidepressants include [Wellbutrin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/wellbutrin-for-anxiety) (bupropion hydrochloride), Remeron ([mirtazapine](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/mirtazapine-for-anxiety)), [Trintellix](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/trintellix-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine), and [Viibryd](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/viibryd-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine). Not every type of antidepressant is appropriate for everyone living with depression. The type of antidepressant that’s right for you [depends on your symptoms](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046273), the possible side effects, as well as any health conditions you live with, other medications you’re taking, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, etc. A qualified provider can work with you to ensure you are taking the appropriate medication for your situation. ## Can you get antidepressants over the counter? No, antidepressants are not available over the counter. Although antidepressants are considered safe and effective when taken as intended, all drugs carry the potential for serious side effects. As such, it’s important to take them under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to the medication and ensure your body is responding appropriately. They can also make adjustments to your prescription—say, if you experience any side effects or have a negative reaction to the drug. Or, if you decide together that a given antidepressant isn’t right for you, they can help you safely stop taking the drug. If you don’t respond to one antidepressant, it’s possible you may respond to another. Your healthcare provider will determine the right options for you. ### Who can prescribe antidepressants? Only a licensed healthcare professional—a psychiatrist or other M.D., or an N.P. (nurse practitioner) or P.A. (physician’s assistant)—can prescribe antidepressants. If you are interested in taking antidepressants for depression or a related condition, you must [seek the care](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/when-to-see-a-psychiatrist) of a professional. ## How can you start medication for depression? The first step to treating depression is getting a clinical diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional, like a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist will ask you questions and may perform some tests to rule out any other causes of your symptoms, like other medical or mental health conditions. Although getting a diagnosis can seem scary, it may also be validating to put a name to what you’ve been experiencing. And a diagnosis will allow you to access the professional resources needed to start feeling better, including medication like antidepressants. To that end, you'll work with your provider to determine a treatment plan—usually a combination of medication and supportive therapy—that best fits your needs and condition. Supportive therapy is a kind of psychotherapy, which is flexible, can fit and address the needs of a wide range of clients with different diagnoses. Further, it is also often used as the initial form of therapy. It is generally aimed at symptom relief and behavior change without focusing on modifying personality or resolving unconscious conflicts. Supportive therapy should be part of any visit with a mental health provider. ### What should you keep in mind when starting antidepressants? After you start medication, it may take several weeks before you start to notice a change in your symptoms. Rebalancing your brain chemistry doesn’t happen overnight, but your provider will work closely with you to ensure that your symptoms improve. Depression is among the most treatable of mental health conditions, [with up to 90% of people](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression#section_2) eventually responding well to treatment. To help ensure you’re among that majority, [it’s important](https://www.nps.org.au/consumers/antidepressants-10-things-you-should-know) to remember to take your medication exactly as prescribed, and keep your provider informed of how you’re responding to the treatment—including any and all side effects that you experience. ### Getting professional help with Talkiatry If you’re interested in getting professional treatment for depression but not sure where to start, Talkiatry might be a good fit. With Talkiatry, you can see a psychiatrist from the comfort of your home, and you can schedule your first appointment in a matter of days. To get started, take our [free online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment), to see if Talkiatry is right for you and get matched with a psychiatrist. ### About Talkiatry Talkiatry is a national psychiatry practice that provides in-network, virtual care. Co-founded by a patient and a triple-board-certified psychiatrist, Talkiatry has over 300 doctors, 60 insurance partners, and first visits available in days. We treat patients with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. [Get started with a short online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment). *The information in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.* ### Like this article? Join our newsletter. Get regular articles and insights from our psychiatrists directly to your inbox. Thanks for signing up! See you in your inbox. Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.  ### Learn about the conditions we treat [ADHD](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-adhd-treatment) [Anxiety](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-anxiety-treatment) [Bipolar disorder](https://www.talkiatry.com/bipolar-treatment-online) [Children](https://www.talkiatry.com/child-psychiatrist) [Depression](https://www.talkiatry.com/depression-treatment-online) [OCD](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-ocd-treatment) [PTSD](https://www.talkiatry.com/ptsd-treatment-online) How it works  Tell us about you Take 10 min to tell us about why you’re seeking care and what you’re looking for.   Explore your matches We’ll show you the bios and treatment approaches of doctors who are a match for you.   Schedule your visit Find a time that works for you. We can usually see you in just days.   Start your journey Join your visit from the comfort of home and get a personalized treatment plan.  [Start our short assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment)   ### Frequently asked questions ### Does Talkiatry take my insurance?  We're in-network with major insurers, including: - Aetna - Blue Cross Blue Shield - Cigna - Humana - Oscar - United Healthcare - Optum - Compsych Even if your insurer isn't on the list, we might still accept it. Use the insurance eligibility checker in our [online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment) to learn more. ### Can I get an estimate of my visit cost?  The best way to get a detailed estimate of your cost is to contact your insurance company directly, since your cost will depend on the details of your insurance. For some, it’s just a co-pay. If you have an unmet deductible it could be more. Call the number on your insurance card and ask about your plan’s coverage for outpatient psychiatric services. ### How does Talkiatry compare to face-to-face treatment?  For most patients, Talkiatry treatment is just as effective as in-person psychiatry (American Psychiatric Association, 2021), and much more convenient. That said, we don’t currently provide treatment for schizophrenia, primary eating disorder treatment, or Medication Assisted Treatment for substance use disorders. ### What kind of treatment does Talkiatry provide?  At Talkiatry, we specialize in psychiatry, meaning the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Your psychiatrist will meet with you virtually on a schedule you set together, devise a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and preferences, and work with you to adjust your plan as you meet your goals. If your treatment plan includes medication, your psychiatrist will prescribe and manage it. If needed, your psychiatrist can also refer you to a Talkiatry therapist. ### What's the difference between a therapist and psychiatrist?  Psychiatrists are doctors who have specialized training in diagnosing and treating complex mental health conditions through medication management. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or similar, a psychiatrist may be a good place to start. Other signs that you should see a psychiatrist include: - Your primary care doctor or another doctor thinks you may benefit from the services of a psychiatrist and provides a referral - You are interested in taking medication to treat a mental health condition - Your symptoms are severe enough to regularly interfere with your everyday life The term “therapist” can apply to a range of professionals including social workers, mental health counselors, psychologists, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and psychoanalysts. Working with a therapist generally involves regular talk therapy sessions where you discuss your feelings, problem-solving strategies, and coping mechanisms to help with your condition. ### Who can prescribe medication?  All our psychiatrists (and all psychiatrists in general) are medical doctors with additional training in mental health. They can prescribe any medication they think can help their patients. In order to find out which medications might be appropriate, they need to conduct a full evaluation. At Talkiatry, first visits are generally scheduled for 60 minutes or more to give your psychiatrist time to learn about you, work on a treatment plan, and discuss any medications that might be included. About Sophia Monsour, DO Dr. Sophia Monsour holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist for Pennsylvania at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2013 at Albany Medical Center, she has spent the past 9 years fulfilling her passion for integrated and specialty care for adults suffering from mental illness. Her years of experience have included working as an integrated care Psychiatrist at a community health center, a medical director of a Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP), and also working for an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACT) specializing in the Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) population. Most recently, she has been serving our veterans as the Outpatient Section Chief, Primary/Mental Health Integration Medical Director and Resident/Medical Student Coordinator at VA Pittsburgh. Dr. Monsour has an approachable style when treating individuals who suffer from various diagnoses, especially those with prior trauma. She provides supportive psychotherapy and at times uses psychodynamic therapy skills to address her patient's current stressors and to identify the root cause of their ailment. She believes in a holistic approach and utilizes mindfulness as a technique along with medication management. [Read more](https://www.talkiatry.com/team-members/sophia-monsour-do) Article sources  Related posts March 26, 2024 #### Trintellix (vortioxetine) for anxiety and depression: What to know [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/trintellix-for-anxiety) March 21, 2024 #### What to know about TCAs—including a comprehensive list [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-tca-list) June 29, 2024 #### Reverse SAD: Is summertime sadness a thing? [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/summer-seasonal-depression) December 6, 2024 #### Lexapro vs. Zoloft: Comparing medications [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/lexapro-vs-zoloft) June 27, 2024 #### Paxil vs Zoloft: Comparing medications [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/paxil-vs-zoloft) December 9, 2024 #### Why do I feel restless? How do I stop? [Read more ›](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/feeling-restless) ## Mental health is personal. So is our approach to psychiatry. [Get started](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment) ### Looking for an online test? Answer a few questions to better understand your symptoms and see if it’s time to talk with an expert. 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Our psychiatrists explain what you need to know about depression medication, including what to expect and how to get started. [It’s estimated](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression) that almost 7% of adults struggle with depression (aka [major depressive disorder](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/major-depressive-disorder-mdd)), making it among the more common mental health conditions. Of course, just because it’s common, doesn’t mean it’s easy to live with. Symptoms of depression can feel unbearable. If you’re living with depression, it’s natural to want to get help fast. One of the most common treatments for depression is medication, and there’s a range of medications that can help manage your symptoms. While you should only get medication from a licensed provider, the good news is that finding one can be easy. We turned to our staff of psychiatrists to find out exactly how to do it. ## What are the symptoms of depression? Many people confuse depression with everyday “sadness.” But it’s important to know that there’s a difference between everyday sadness and depression. Everyone feels sad from time to time; that’s a normal, even healthy, part of the human experience. However, depression goes well beyond periodic sadness. Depression causes feelings of extreme sadness or hopelessness, as well as a lack of interest or pleasure in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed. Other symptoms of depression may include: - Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions - Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt - Increased fatigue or loss of energy - Restlessness or sluggishness - Sleep problems—sleeping too little or too much - Changes in appetite—unintentional weight gain or weight loss - Thoughts of death or thoughts of suicide These symptoms have been present for at least 2 weeks (although in many cases much longer) and are severe enough to interfere with your everyday life. ## How is depression treated? Generally, depression is treated with a combination of talk therapy and medication. If your depression is very mild, it’s possible your provider will recommend concentrating just on therapy. [Cognitive behavioral therapy](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-and-understanding-our-feelings) (CBT), is one effective talk therapy option. CBT for depression focuses on problem solving and re-routing negative thought patterns. Most people living with depression, however, respond best to a combination of therapy *and* medication. The goal is to help correct the chemical imbalances in the brain that are thought to contribute to the development of depression. The most prescribed medications for depression are antidepressants. ## What are antidepressants? Antidepressants are a type of medication that increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, in the brain. They are most often prescribed to treat depression, but can also be used to treat other conditions, like anxiety, chronic pain, [insomnia](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-insomnia-treatment), [OCD](https://www.talkiatry.com/online-ocd-treatment), or [PTSD](https://www.talkiatry.com/ptsd-treatment-online). (Learn more about [depression vs. anxiety](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/anxiety-vs-depression).) ## How do antidepressants work? There are several different types of antidepressants, and each works differently, but the overall goal of this type of medication is to correct imbalances in neurotransmitters which lead to the development of depression or other mental health conditions. Your brain produces different neurotransmitters which affect your mood, sleep, and bodily functions. These include serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. In people living with depression or other mental health conditions, the levels of these neurotransmitters can be depleted. Antidepressants are [thought to increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410405/) these levels, which can help stabilize your mood. ## What are the main types of antidepressants? The main types of antidepressants include SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants), and atypical antidepressants. ### SSRIs SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are among the most prescribed types of antidepressants, and include [Prozac](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/prozac-for-anxiety) (fluoxetine), [Lexapro](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/lexapro-for-anxiety) (escitalopram), Paxil (paroxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Celexa (citalopram). These drugs [work](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/) by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help stabilize your mood, emotions, and sleep. ### SNRIs SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are another commonly prescribed class of antidepressant. Some common SNRIs are [Cymbalta](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/cymbalta-duloxetine-anxiety-depression) (duloxetine), Effexor (venlafaxine), Pristiq (desvenlafaxine), and Savella (milnacipran). These drugs [increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4008300/) the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. For more on the difference between SSRIs and SNRIS, check out: [SSRis vs SNRIS](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/ssri-vs-snri). ### TCAs [TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants)](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/tricyclic-antidepressants-tca-list) also [increase](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557791/#:~:text=They%20block%20the%20reuptake%20of,to%20its%20anti-depressive%20effect.) the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, but have the potential to affect more body systems than newer SSRIs or SNRIs. These drugs may be an effective option for people whose depression is resistant to other medications, but they come with more side effects. Common TCAs include Elavil (amitryptiline), Norpramin (desipramine), Asendin (amoxapine), Silenor (doxepin), and Tofranil. ### MAOIs [MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/maois-list) increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by blocking them from being broken down. While MAOIs were the first antidepressants introduced, they are not the first choice in treating mental health disorders due to several dietary restrictions, side effects, and safety concerns. MAOIs are only a treatment option when all other medications are unsuccessful. Examples of MAOIs include Marplan (isocarboxazid), Nardil (phenelzine), Emsam (selegiline), and Parnate (tranylcypromine). ### Atypical antidepressants Atypical antidepressants work differently than any other class of antidepressant. Many have multiple mechanisms of action, which means they don’t fit neatly into any other class, although they all work to increase levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Common atypical antidepressants include [Wellbutrin](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/wellbutrin-for-anxiety) (bupropion hydrochloride), Remeron ([mirtazapine](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/mirtazapine-for-anxiety)), [Trintellix](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/trintellix-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine), and [Viibryd](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/viibryd-for-anxiety) (vortioxetine). Not every type of antidepressant is appropriate for everyone living with depression. The type of antidepressant that’s right for you [depends on your symptoms](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046273), the possible side effects, as well as any health conditions you live with, other medications you’re taking, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, etc. A qualified provider can work with you to ensure you are taking the appropriate medication for your situation. ## Can you get antidepressants over the counter? No, antidepressants are not available over the counter. Although antidepressants are considered safe and effective when taken as intended, all drugs carry the potential for serious side effects. As such, it’s important to take them under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to the medication and ensure your body is responding appropriately. They can also make adjustments to your prescription—say, if you experience any side effects or have a negative reaction to the drug. Or, if you decide together that a given antidepressant isn’t right for you, they can help you safely stop taking the drug. If you don’t respond to one antidepressant, it’s possible you may respond to another. Your healthcare provider will determine the right options for you. ### Who can prescribe antidepressants? Only a licensed healthcare professional—a psychiatrist or other M.D., or an N.P. (nurse practitioner) or P.A. (physician’s assistant)—can prescribe antidepressants. If you are interested in taking antidepressants for depression or a related condition, you must [seek the care](https://www.talkiatry.com/blog/when-to-see-a-psychiatrist) of a professional. ## How can you start medication for depression? The first step to treating depression is getting a clinical diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional, like a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist will ask you questions and may perform some tests to rule out any other causes of your symptoms, like other medical or mental health conditions. Although getting a diagnosis can seem scary, it may also be validating to put a name to what you’ve been experiencing. And a diagnosis will allow you to access the professional resources needed to start feeling better, including medication like antidepressants. To that end, you'll work with your provider to determine a treatment plan—usually a combination of medication and supportive therapy—that best fits your needs and condition. Supportive therapy is a kind of psychotherapy, which is flexible, can fit and address the needs of a wide range of clients with different diagnoses. Further, it is also often used as the initial form of therapy. It is generally aimed at symptom relief and behavior change without focusing on modifying personality or resolving unconscious conflicts. Supportive therapy should be part of any visit with a mental health provider. ### What should you keep in mind when starting antidepressants? After you start medication, it may take several weeks before you start to notice a change in your symptoms. Rebalancing your brain chemistry doesn’t happen overnight, but your provider will work closely with you to ensure that your symptoms improve. Depression is among the most treatable of mental health conditions, [with up to 90% of people](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression#section_2) eventually responding well to treatment. To help ensure you’re among that majority, [it’s important](https://www.nps.org.au/consumers/antidepressants-10-things-you-should-know) to remember to take your medication exactly as prescribed, and keep your provider informed of how you’re responding to the treatment—including any and all side effects that you experience. ### Getting professional help with Talkiatry If you’re interested in getting professional treatment for depression but not sure where to start, Talkiatry might be a good fit. With Talkiatry, you can see a psychiatrist from the comfort of your home, and you can schedule your first appointment in a matter of days. To get started, take our [free online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment), to see if Talkiatry is right for you and get matched with a psychiatrist. ### About Talkiatry Talkiatry is a national psychiatry practice that provides in-network, virtual care. Co-founded by a patient and a triple-board-certified psychiatrist, Talkiatry has over 300 doctors, 60 insurance partners, and first visits available in days. We treat patients with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. [Get started with a short online assessment](https://app.talkiatry.com/assessment). *The information in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.*