How Long Does It Take for Antidepressants to Work?

If you’ve recently started taking antidepressants, it’s normal to wonder, “When will I actually start feeling better?”

Whether you’re navigating severe depression, mild depression, or one of many other mental health conditions, waiting for your medication to work can be one of the hardest parts of the recovery journey.

At Neurish Wellness, we understand the frustration, fear, and hope that come with treating depression. Our experienced clinical team helps clients manage expectations, monitor side effects, and adjust treatment with care. We know that the journey is never one-size-fits-all—and we’re here to walk it with you.

Most antidepressants take between 2 to 6 weeks to begin easing depression symptoms, though some particular symptoms, such as sleep disturbances or low energy, may improve sooner. Others, like mood, motivation, or concentration, may take several weeks or longer to show change.

Why the delay? Because antidepressants work by gradually altering how your brain processes mood-related neurotransmitters—especially serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This change doesn’t happen overnight. As brain cells adapt, new patterns of emotional regulation start to emerge.

There are several types of antidepressants, and each works a little differently. The class of medication you’re prescribed—and your body’s unique response—can affect how quickly you see significant improvement.

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

These are the most commonly prescribed for mild depression, moderate, or severe depression. SSRIs—like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft)—target serotonin. They typically take 3–6 weeks to show improvement.

2. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs—like venlafaxine (Effexor)—affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. They’re often used for severe depression or when SSRIs aren’t enough. Many patients begin to notice change within 2–4 weeks, though full effects may take longer.

3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclic antidepressants, or tricyclic antidepressants TCAs, are older medications that affect multiple neurotransmitters. They’re not often first-line due to possible side effects, but they can be effective in treatment-resistant depression. TCAs may take 4–6 weeks to work.

4. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are powerful but less commonly used due to dietary restrictions and side effects. For some clients, they can be life-changing—though results may take several weeks to appear.

5. Atypical Antidepressants and Other Antidepressants

Medications like bupropion (Wellbutrin) or mirtazapine (Remeron) fall under atypical antidepressants or other antidepressants. These often target dopamine or other brain pathways. Timelines vary, but many patients see benefits within 2–4 weeks.

Side effects of antidepressants vary, but most are temporary and manageable. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort

• Fatigue or weight gain

• Headaches

• Sleep disturbances

• Sexual dysfunction

• Emotional blunting

At Neurish Wellness, we believe no one should have to choose between emotional well-being and physical comfort. Our team works closely with clients to minimize possible side effects and explore different antidepressants if needed.

Because every person is different, certain antidepressants may work well for some and not at all for others. That’s why we recommend regular check-ins with a trusted mental health professional, especially in the first several weeks of treatment. Medication may also be combined with talk therapy or holistic approaches to support your full recovery.

If you’re not seeing progress within 6–8 weeks, don’t lose hope. It doesn’t necessarily mean the medication isn’t working—it might mean:

• The dosage needs adjusting

• You’re dealing with other mental health conditions alongside depression

• Another type of antidepressant may be a better fit

• You’d benefit from adding therapy or exploring lifestyle adjustments

We believe in finding the right fit—not just the first one.

Whether you’re new to antidepressants or have tried many over the years, Neurish Wellness provides the compassionate, expert care you need to feel truly supported. Our luxury, individualized program includes medication management, psychotherapy, and integrative services to help you feel like yourself again.

We help clients not only treat depression, but also understand their options, manage expectations, and build a sustainable treatment plan. You’re not alone—and healing is possible.

If you’re struggling with depression symptoms or want to know more about how antidepressants work, Neurish Wellness is here to help. Our team is ready to support you with clarity, compassion, and world-class care.

Let us help you take the first step toward feeling better—on your time, at your pace, and with the understanding you deserve.