I have some questions about antidepressants... could you help me?

[Anonymous]

1. How much do they usually cost
2. How often do you take them (please be specific)
3. How do you actually feel when they start to work (please be specific)
4. How long does it take for them to work
... and finally...
5. How do I actually bring it up to my parents that I think I should start taking antidepressants

[Anonymous]

The price will vary depending on your insurance or if you're uninsured. My co-pay is like 2 bucks. I take mine once a day and I'm pretty sure that fairly common ( I like to take them in the evening because it makes me a little drowsy). Most of what I've read is that it takes at least two weeks for enough of it to build up in your system to take affect... I feel like that was accurate for me. I started to notice changes around three weeks on the pill I am on now. You may have to try more than one to find the right fit - I did. But try not to get discouraged if you do ( I know that'll incredibly difficult as a depressed person but it will be worth it for the right fit!) And let your doctor know of any specific concerns you have so they can address those when the make a decision as to what specific pill to put you on. I didn't start taking them until I was an adult and out of my parents although I had depression problems well before then. I suppose I would be honest and tell them that you're struggling with depression and would like to see a doctor... hope that was helpful!

[Anonymous]

You need to consult a doctor for them. I have to see my psychiatrist for them.
I have health insurance so I don't ever have to pay for anything. But I heard that appointments and medications are really expensive in the hundreds of dollars. Everyone is different, every case is different and how often you take them depends on your needs, which is determined by your doctor. Like your diagnosis that they're for and how bad it is. I've always needed them twice a day. They actually work so it actually makes a big difference. I can be normal and such. I could get really out of hand without them. Like it's not so severe. Personally, I've been taking antidepressants since I was 9 or 10 maybe. I think they started working quick but it's also about finding the right meds.
You should have a talk with them and tell them why you feel like you need them and just be honest. You can also ask about getting to see a psychiatrist. And you could see a therapist but only the psychiatrist can prescribe.

[Eliora1]

1. They're cheap if you buy them generic.
2. Taken daily, unless they're as-needed/PRN but they're usually not
3. It depends. If it's a good drug for you then you'll probably feel very silly until your body gets used to it.
4. I think they work quickly, like within an hour.
5. You should just tell them how you're feeling depressed and you'd like to take something for it. They probably won't overeact or freak out.

[Climber]

You should consult a doctor for it. They are dangerous if not taken correctly. And they don't cure the cause. You have to tackle the cause of your depression too at the same time otherwise they are for life. Its not easy, but if you don't find help among friends or family, there is professional help too.

[CaliforniaMaki]

Well, I haven't taken antidepressants before, but I do think you should start with number 5, tell your parents first. Maybe you could open up about how you've been feeling the past few days or weeks which led you to think about taking antidepressants.
Most importantly though, you should consult your doctor if it's alright or needed so that you won't get the wrong dosage.