What to expect from treatment
When will I start to feel better?
This question will be at the top of your list when beginning your depression treatment. Your recovery will depend on several factors, including what type of treatment you’re receiving and how severe your depression is. Effective treatment takes time, effort, consistency, and a close eye on what is working and what is not.
But remember—you CAN feel better.
What to expect from antidepressants
If you are going to respond to an antidepressant, you should feel some relief in 2 to 6 weeks. Remember that antidepressants are more effective the more severe the depression is. Sometimes, people need to try several types of antidepressants, or a combination of them, to find relief. If a certain medication doesn’t work for you, don’t lose hope. Speak to your psychiatrist or physician about other options to try.
What to expect from counseling
Because counseling varies by therapist and patient, it’s hard to predict when you will feel some relief. Oftentimes, the combination of talk therapy and an antidepressant can make you feel like you are finally turning the corner.
If after a few therapy sessions you feel you aren’t making progress, raise this issue with your counselor.
Track your progress over time
Emerging from a depression can take days, weeks or months. After starting treatment, you may start to feel better right away and have a rapid recovery. Or your recovery may be more slow and steady. To track your progress, ask yourself these questions every week or so:
- If you are taking an antidepressant, does the dose feel right? Are you taking it consistently according to your doctor’s orders?
- If you are attending counseling, are you being truthful about your experiences and feelings? For talk therapy to work, it’s important to be honest.
- Is your counselor helping you better understand and cope with your depressive thoughts and feelings?
- Are you continuing to participate in life activities that are harmful and stressful to you? These activities may include abusing drugs or alcohol, isolating yourself, engaging in affairs, gambling, and spending too much time at work or on the Internet.
- Have you made lifestyle adjustments that might help lift the depression? These include regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, spending time with friends and family, and getting adequate sleep. If you have sleep difficulties, talk to your doctor or counselor.
Next: Why Get Help?