Depression

Depression is a serious mood condition, not just a bad day or a sign of weakness. It can cause sadness or loss of interest most days for at least two weeks. It may also affect sleep, appetite, energy, and focus. A licensed clinician can assess your symptoms.

Seek help for depression when symptoms last about two weeks, disrupt daily life, or feel hard to manage. Seek care sooner if symptoms are severe. If you have thoughts of suicide or are in crisis, call or text 988. Call 911 if there is immediate danger.

Depression treatment may include talk therapy, medication, or both. Results vary. The choice depends on your symptoms, health history, preferences, and past treatment. A licensed physician in your state decides whether medication is appropriate. Sleep routines, movement, and social support can also be part of your care plan.

SSRIs are antidepressants that change how the brain uses serotonin, a chemical involved in mood and other functions. They can reduce depression symptoms over time. Results vary. A licensed physician in your state reviews your health history, other medicines, and possible risks before deciding whether an SSRI is appropriate.

Bupropion is an antidepressant that affects norepinephrine and dopamine, chemicals involved in brain signaling. It may help with depression symptoms. Results vary. It is not appropriate for everyone, including people with certain seizure or eating disorder histories. A licensed physician in your state must review your risks before prescribing.

Antidepressants often take several weeks to help depression, and fuller benefits may take longer. Results vary. Sleep or appetite may change before mood does. Take your medicine as prescribed and keep follow-up visits. Contact your physician sooner if symptoms worsen, side effects are difficult, or you feel unsafe.

Depression medicines can cause nausea, headache, sleep changes, dry mouth, or sexual side effects, depending on the drug. Some effects may ease with time. Results vary. Contact your physician about bothersome symptoms. New suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, seizures, or signs of a serious allergic reaction need urgent attention.

Yes. Depression medicines can interact with alcohol, supplements, and other drugs. Some combinations cause serious harm. Share a full list of everything you take with your physician and pharmacist, including cannabis and nonprescription products. Ask before adding or stopping anything, and discuss alcohol use before starting treatment.

Do not stop depression medication on your own when you feel better. Continuing treatment may lower the chance that symptoms return. Results vary. Stopping suddenly can also cause withdrawal symptoms with some medicines. Your physician can help decide when to stop and whether a gradual dose reduction is needed.

A Verra Health online or video visit lets a licensed physician in your state review your depression symptoms and decide whether treatment is appropriate. Some states or medications require video. Not every concern can be managed online, and a prescription is not guaranteed. Telehealth does not replace emergency care.