Understanding SSRIs: What Your Patients Need to Know
Feeling Nervous About Starting Medication? You’re Not Alone
If you’ve been prescribed an antidepressant—especially a type called an SSRI—you might be feeling a mix of curiosity, confusion, and even hesitation. That’s completely normal. For many people, the decision to start medication is a big step, and it can feel overwhelming.
You may be wondering: Will this really help? What side effects should I expect? Will it change who I am? As psychiatrist serving patients in New Jersey and New York, I hear these questions every day. Let’s walk through what SSRIs are, how they work, and what you can expect—so you can feel more informed and less anxious about your mental health journey.
What Are SSRIs—and How Do They Work?
SSRI stands for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. SSRIs are a class of antidepressants that are commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and other mental health conditions. You may recognize brand names like Lexapro (escitalopram), Zoloft (sertraline), Prozac (fluoxetine), or Paxil (paroxetine).
SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) in the brain that's involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. When serotonin levels are too low, it can contribute to symptoms of depression and anxiety. SSRIs help by blocking the reabsorption (or reuptake) of serotonin, making more of it available in the brain.
Think of serotonin like water in a sponge. Normally, your brain “soaks up” some of the serotonin it produces. SSRIs keep more of it circulating—helping many people feel more emotionally balanced over time.
Common Side Effects and How Long They Take to Work
One of the most important things to understand is that SSRIs take time to work. You may not notice improvement in mood or anxiety right away. For most people, it takes 2–6 weeks to feel the full effects.
In the meantime, you might experience some mild and temporary side effects, especially during the first week or two. These can include:
Nausea
Headache
Upset stomach or diarrhea
Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams
Slight increase in anxiety at first
These side effects are usually manageable and often go away within the first couple of weeks. If they persist or become uncomfortable, your psychiatrist can help adjust the dosage or switch medications.
It’s also important not to stop SSRIs abruptly. Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you ever want to come off the medication, do so with your doctor’s guidance.
Debunking Common Myths About SSRIs
“SSRIs will change my personality.”
Not true. SSRIs are not meant to change who you are—they are designed to reduce symptoms like sadness, worry, and emotional numbness. Most patients report feeling more like themselves, not less.
“Once I start, I’ll have to be on them forever.”
Also not true. Many people use SSRIs for a specific period—such as during a difficult life transition or to stabilize long-term symptoms. Treatment duration varies, and some patients choose to taper off after a year or more, while others continue long-term.
“If I need medication, I must be really ‘sick.’”
SSRIs are used by people from all walks of life, including high-functioning professionals, parents, students, and caregivers. Needing medication isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of taking care of your health.
You Deserve to Feel Better—Let’s Talk
If you’re considering medication or already have a prescription for an SSRI but still have questions, know that you’re not alone.
At T. Psychiatry Associates, we offer thoughtful, individualized care for adults and families in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.
We’ll walk you through each step, monitor how you’re feeling, and make sure your treatment fits your goals—not anyone else’s.
