Are antidepressants addictive?

No, they do not cause addiction like sedatives or sleeping pills. Temporary withdrawal phenomena can occur on discontinuation, which is why reduction is gradual — but there is no craving for more and more.

Do antidepressants change my personality?

No. The aim is for you to be yourself again — with more drive, more stable mood and less anxiety. Many patients describe it as a veil lifting, not as becoming someone else.

How quickly does an antidepressant work?

It usually takes two to four weeks for a noticeable effect to be felt — sleep and inner tension often improve first. This patience phase is normal and not a sign that the medication is not working.

Do I need psychotherapy as well?

The combination is often most effective: the medication stabilizes, the therapy addresses causes and thought patterns. For milder depression, psychotherapy alone is often the first choice. What is right for you should be discussed with your practitioner.

Am I allowed to drive on antidepressants?

During the adjustment phase, tiredness or concentration problems may occur — in which case caution is advised. Once treatment is stable and well tolerated, driving is usually possible without problems. Discuss it with your doctor.

What about St John's wort?

St John's wort is a herbal remedy with some effect on mild depressive moods, but it has relevant interactions with many medications. Do not take it on your own initiative in addition, but be sure to mention it during your consultation.

Antidepressants — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

Antidepressants are medications that intervene in the brain's metabolism and can thereby have a favourable effect on mood, drive, and the processing of anxiety. They are mainly used for moderate and severe depression as well as for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders — often in combination with psychotherapy. They do not change the personality and do not create addiction, but can cause temporary discontinuation symptoms when stopped — which is why they are reduced step by step. Patience is needed: the effect builds up over weeks.

Typical Areas of Use

Moderate and severe depression
Anxiety and panic disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorders
As an adjunct for chronic pain
Sometimes for sleep disorders in the context of mental illness

How It Works

1It begins with a detailed conversation: your doctor or psychiatrist will clarify the diagnosis, the severity and your life situation, and will discuss with you whether medication, psychotherapy or both would be appropriate.
2If an antidepressant is chosen, a substance is selected that suits your symptoms and any other conditions you may have — usually starting cautiously and increasing gradually.
3Close monitoring takes place during the first few weeks to assess effectiveness and side effects; if the first preparation does not work, a switch to another can be made.
4Once improvement is stable, treatment continues for several months to prevent relapse — discontinuation is later carried out gradually and under medical supervision.

How to Prepare

Note down how long the symptoms have been present and how they affect your daily life.
Bring a list of all medications, including herbal preparations such as St John's wort.
Mention any pregnancy, breastfeeding or wish to have children.

Side Effects & Risks

Initially, temporary nausea, restlessness, headaches or sleep disturbances are possible — they often subside within one to two weeks.
Depending on the active substance, sexual dysfunction, weight changes or dry mouth may occur.
During the first few weeks, drive may return before mood improves; changes in well-being, particularly emerging suicidal thoughts, require immediate medical attention.
Abrupt discontinuation can cause withdrawal phenomena such as dizziness, restlessness or abnormal sensations — which is why reduction is carried out gradually.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

Attend the scheduled follow-up appointments, especially in the first few weeks — this is when the treatment is finely adjusted. Get in touch early if your condition worsens, strong restlessness occurs, or thoughts of harming yourself arise; in acute crises, «Die Dargebotene Hand» (phone 143) and the emergency number 144 are available at any time. Do not stop the medication on your own, even if you are feeling well again — the right time and the step-by-step approach will be planned together.

Cost & Insurance

Antidepressants prescribed by a doctor are generally covered by basic insurance, as is psychiatric or general practitioner support — the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. Psychotherapy ordered by a doctor is also covered by basic insurance. This is for guidance only and without guarantee; please contact your health insurer for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are antidepressants addictive?: No, they do not cause addiction like sedatives or sleeping pills. Temporary withdrawal phenomena can occur on discontinuation, which is why reduction is gradual — but there is no craving for more and more.
Do antidepressants change my personality?: No. The aim is for you to be yourself again — with more drive, more stable mood and less anxiety. Many patients describe it as a veil lifting, not as becoming someone else.
How quickly does an antidepressant work?: It usually takes two to four weeks for a noticeable effect to be felt — sleep and inner tension often improve first. This patience phase is normal and not a sign that the medication is not working.
Do I need psychotherapy as well?: The combination is often most effective: the medication stabilizes, the therapy addresses causes and thought patterns. For milder depression, psychotherapy alone is often the first choice. What is right for you should be discussed with your practitioner.
Am I allowed to drive on antidepressants?: During the adjustment phase, tiredness or concentration problems may occur — in which case caution is advised. Once treatment is stable and well tolerated, driving is usually possible without problems. Discuss it with your doctor.
What about St John's wort?: St John's wort is a herbal remedy with some effect on mild depressive moods, but it has relevant interactions with many medications. Do not take it on your own initiative in addition, but be sure to mention it during your consultation.