Schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor or psychiatrist
Tell them your symptoms, how long they have lasted, and how they affect your daily life
Ask whether antidepressants are appropriate for you
Discuss your medical history, current medications, and any past mental health treatment
Follow the clinician’s evaluation and treatment plan
Get a prescription if the clinician decides medication is appropriate
Fill the prescription at a licensed pharmacy
Take the medication exactly as prescribed
Attend follow-up appointments to monitor effects and side effects
Contact your clinician promptly if symptoms worsen or you have severe side effects
If you are in immediate danger or thinking about self-harm, call emergency services or a crisis line right away