Many people use antidepressants to cope with their depression.Some people experience side effects from their antidepressants that include insomnia, dry mouth, and sexual problems.It's possible that you feel overwhelmed trying to manage your depression and antidepressant side effects.Depression side effects can be managed.You don't need to know a lot about antidepressants, use them correctly and maintain your health.
Step 1: Talk to a professional.
It would be a huge undertaking to educate yourself about all of the antidepressants that are out there.You should talk to your doctor, mental health professional, or pharmacist about the side effects of the particular antidepressants you are taking.Ask your doctor to tell you more about the drug.Say something like, "Could you tell me more about this medication?" when you are getting your prescription filled.You can say, "This is a new prescription for me."Don't hesitate to call your doctor, mental health professional, or pharmacist if you have a question about your medication.If you want to learn more about the side effects of the medication, you should ask your doctor for a pamphlet or article.
Step 2: You have to read the labels.
The label and paperwork that comes with your medication should be read carefully after you have your prescription filled.Important warnings, suggestions, possible side effects, and other information are included.The part about possible side effects should be paid special attention to.The label will usually group the side effects according to how common or rare they are.There are warnings for taking the drug.When operating heavy machinery, some antidepressants should not be taken.
Step 3: List of possible side effects.
If you take more than one medication, this can be useful.If you know that medications have some of the same side effects, you can manage them.Your list will tell you what to expect while taking the drug.You can highlight the medications on the list if they have the same side effects.If your heart medication and antidepressant both list drowsiness as a side effect, you could circle that on your list.If you need to seek medical attention, indicate which side effects are severe.If a side effect of your medication is suicidal thoughts, you should put a star next to it on your list.
Step 4: If you are prescribed antidepressants, take them.
Taking your antidepressants the same way they have been prescribed is one of the best ways to manage the side effects.Doing this will make it less likely that you will have a side effect.It is possible to prevent adverse reactions to the antidepressant if you take any medication.If you miss a dose, follow the instructions for what to do.Taking it as soon as possible is one suggestion, while skipping a missed dose is another.The dose should only be taken as often as it is prescribed.Don't change your dose or stop taking it on your own.First of all, always consult a professional.
Step 5: Don't be impatient.
Depression can take a long time to disappear and anti-depressants don't work overnight.It takes about six weeks for antidepressants to make you feel better.Being patient will help you manage your side effects by giving you time to see if they get better over time.You can keep track of how long you have been taking it by putting it on your calendar.You should note on the calendar when the six-week mark will be.
Step 6: Be aware of yourself.
If you feel any of the side effects, you need to be able to manage them.You have to know what you feel like without the drug.Being aware of changes in your body as well as emotional and mental changes will help you manage your depression.It's a good idea to take a break during the day to check your body from head to toe.Look for strange, uncomfortable, or pleasant sensations.Pay attention to your thoughts.You should check in with yourself to see if you are focused, anxious, or depressed.Don't let your emotions get to you.Make a note of the moods that you are feeling.It's a good idea to pay attention to any feelings you have that are not appropriate for the situation.Ask a family member or close friend to keep an eye on you.You might say that you are taking a new drug.Could you keep an eye out for any changes in me that concern you?
Step 7: A journal is a good way to keep track of your medication.
This will allow you to keep track of the effects of your antidepressants.This helps you record any changes or patterns in the way your antidepressants affect you.You should keep a record of the date, time, and dose of each antidepressant.Take the time to write about any changes you notice in yourself.You might say that you feel more energetic.You should make a note of any special situations.If you notice that you don't feel sick when you take your medication, that's a good sign.
Step 8: If you need to change antidepressants, do so.
If you have given your antidepressants time to work and still don't see a change in your symptoms, talk to your doctor or mental health professional.You may have to try more than one to find the one that works best for you.The information you have been writing in your medication can be used to support your feelings of needing to change antidepressants.Can we talk about a different antidepressants for you?There are many antidepressants out there and each one has a different side effect profile.Try different drugs until you feel a decrease in your depression.
Step 9: Alcohol and substance abuse can be avoided.
When you drink or use illegal drugs, you are making things worse.If you make your depression harder to treat, you may end up with a substance abuse problem.Alcohol and other substances can cause serious negative side effects with your antidepressants.You are not alone if you feel like you have a problem with drugs or alcohol.If you want to kick your addiction, there are treatment facilities available.
Step 10: Attend your doctor's appointments.
If you go to your appointments, you will be able to manage your side effects.The lines of communication between you and your healthcare provider will remain open if you do this.It will give you and your healthcare provider the chance to identify any general health issues or side effects of your antidepressant that you may not have noticed.You should attend your annual check-up and any other health appointments.Discuss how your medication is working and any side effects during this time.Establishing a good physician-patient relationship is important for the course of your treatment and for helping to identify any side effects that you experience.
Step 11: Take part in regular physical activity.
It is possible to manage many of the side effects of your antidepressants by being physically active on a regular basis.Exercise can help you with side effects such as insomnia and weight gain.You can start taking martial arts classes.The social aspect will give you a chance to meet new people.Start or end the day with a walk.It can be as brisk or as leisurely as you please.It is important to get 30 minutes of exercise five days per week for a total of 150 minutes a week according to the President.5 to 10 minute intervals can be used for exercise.Exercise may help you with depression.
Step 12: You can make healthy meal and snack choices.
There are some side effects of antidepressants.Maintaining a healthy diet will help you manage these side effects by reducing the chance that you will have other issues complicating the situation.Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.Try to get 8 ounces of water a day.Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are great sources of fiber.Try not to eat foods that cause you to have upset stomach, gas, or indigestion.Weight gain is not usually caused by short term therapy with antidepressants.Long term therapy does.Try to eat a balanced diet and keep a record of what you are eating.
Step 13: Get at least eight hours of sleep each night.
It can be hard to navigate the day if you are tired.It's a challenge to get anything done if you add the drowsiness or fatigue that may be a side effect of your antidepressants.If you make sure you are getting adequate rest, you can manage some of your antidepressants side effects.You can get 7 to 9 hours of sleep if you set a regular night time for yourself.Don't distract yourself with anything that might disturb you.Put your phone on vibrate and turn the TV off.You should wake up at a regular time each day.Don't drink, smoke, or eat before bed.Before you go to bed, resolve your concerns or worries.If you want to get 30 minutes of exercise a day, you have to exercise before you go to sleep.Good sleep hygiene can be practiced.