- Contents
- Introduction
- Q. What is depression?
- Q. How does depression affect college students?
- Q. Are there different types of depression?
- Q. What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
- Q. What causes depression?
- Q. How can I find out if I have depression?
- Q. How is depression treated?
- Q. What are antidepressants?
- Q. If a doctor prescribes an antidepressant, how long will I have to take it?
- Q. What is psychotherapy?
- Q. If I think I may have depression, where can I get help?
- Q. How can I help myself if I am depressed?
- Q. How can I help a friend who is depressed?
- Q. What if I or someone I know is in crisis?
- Q. How can research help college students who have depression?
- Citations
- For more information on depression
Q. If a doctor prescribes an antidepressant, how long will I have to take it?
A. Always follow the directions of the doctor or health care provider when taking medication. You will need to take regular doses of antidepressants and the full effect of these medications may not take effect for several weeks or months. Some people need to take antidepressants for a short time. If your depression is long-lasting or comes back repeatedly, you may need to take antidepressants longer.
Previous: Q. What are antidepressants? Next: Q. What is psychotherapy?
Options
Related Information
- See all NIMH publications about:
- Browse Mental Health Topics
- About NIMH Publications
