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Life-changing events are happening everywhere, and times have been hard for many of us. Have you been diagnosed with depression and are you taking antidepressant medication? Here are a few important things to know:

What is depression?

• Depression is a mood disorder that causes deep, ongoing sadness.
• Depression can make it hard for you to do your normal daily tasks.
• About 1 in 10 adults is diagnosed with depression yearly.

What to know about antidepressants:

• Medication can take up to six weeks to work.
• Take your medication as advised. Don't stop without talking to your doctor first.
• Ask what results and side effects to expect. Tell your doctor if you have any.
• Keep your follow-up appointments with your doctor.

What else can you do?

• Build a social support team with friends and family.
• Ask your doctor to connect you with a counselor.
• Keep a regular sleep schedule.
• Exercise several times a week.
• Eat healthy.

Talk with your doctor today, and together make your treatment plan the best it can be!

Source: hopkinsmedicine.org