Doctors usually ask people to consider antidepressants to manage moderate-to-severe anxiety and depressive disorders. Since this treatment has different types, the expert performs a thorough checkup and suggests the right one depending on the patient’s needs. However, people often make mistakes when taking antidepressants, which reduces their effects by a big margin. Individuals must avoid these mistakes as far as possible to improve their health and prevent any unnecessary complications.

Abruptly stopping them
Most people feel their symptoms getting better within two months of starting antidepressants, so they stop taking them without asking the doctor. This could be dangerous because abruptly stopping the treatment lowers its effectiveness and increases the chances of a relapse into depression. Experts say a person should continue the treatment for at least six months to a year, or as long as the doctor suggests, depending on their condition’s severity. Those who would like to stop taking antidepressants altogether must consult the expert first and learn how to taper it off safely.

Hiding the side effects from the doctor
Many experience side effects like changes in appetite, nausea, dry mouth, constipation, insomnia, fatigue, dizziness, restlessness, and anxiety when taking antidepressants. While these issues clear up within a week or two, one should talk to the doctor if they continue for more than a few weeks. The expert may reduce the dosage or start an alternative treatment.

Not sharing information about other prescriptions and supplements
Antidepressants are known to interfere with other treatments. So, before getting a prescription, one should discuss their health history at length with the doctor. People should list the treatments and supplements they are currently using to help the professional create a well-rounded treatment plan.

Depending on antidepressants alone
Sure, antidepressants help manage depression symptoms, but they do not address the problem’s root cause. So, patients should use a combination of antidepressants and talk therapy (psychotherapy) for a holistic approach to treating anxiety and depression. Doing so can be useful in recognizing and changing troubling thoughts and emotions. Patients can also think about making tiny lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and practicing gratitude and mindfulness.