5 Questions to Ask Before Starting an SSRI

Starting an antidepressant—especially a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)—can be a major turning point in your mental health journey. SSRIs can help ease depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and they’ve been life-changing for many people. Still, it's important to feel informed and confident in your treatment decisions.

Here are five essential questions to ask your provider before starting an SSRI:

1. What symptoms is this medication targeting?

Not all SSRIs are alike. Some work better for generalized anxiety, while others are more effective for depression or panic. Your provider should clearly explain what symptoms they expect the SSRI to address—and how you’ll track progress together.

➡️ Tip: Be as specific as possible about what’s bothering you. Instead of saying “I’m just anxious,” try “I have constant racing thoughts and can’t sleep.”

2. How long will it take to start working?

SSRIs typically take 2 to 6 weeks to show noticeable effects, and sometimes longer for full benefits. This can be frustrating when you’re feeling low or anxious, but setting realistic expectations can make the process easier to manage.

➡️ Tip: Ask if there are short-term coping strategies or non-medication supports you can use while the medication builds up.

3. What side effects might I experience—and how long will they last?

Most SSRIs have a similar list of potential side effects: nausea, fatigue, headaches, changes in sleep or libido. These are often temporary and fade after the first few weeks. However, your provider should let you know which ones to monitor and when to call if something doesn’t feel right.

➡️ Tip: Track any changes in a journal or app during the first month.

4. How will we know if this is the right medication for me?

Response to SSRIs can vary widely from person to person. Your provider should schedule regular check-ins to evaluate effectiveness and tolerability. If things don’t improve after a reasonable trial, it’s okay to explore alternatives.

➡️ Tip: Improvement doesn’t mean you’ll feel 100% every day—but you should notice a gradual reduction in your most distressing symptoms.

5. What’s the long-term plan?

You don’t need to stay on medication forever—but you also shouldn’t feel rushed to stop. Many people benefit from continuing an SSRI for 6–12 months or longer, depending on their history and current stressors. Your provider should discuss what ongoing care and eventual tapering might look like.

➡️ Tip: Never stop an SSRI abruptly—always work with your provider to taper safely.

Final Thoughts

Starting an SSRI is a brave and hopeful step toward healing. The more informed and supported you feel, the better the outcome. At Sage Integrative Psychiatry, I work closely with clients to create individualized plans that include lifestyle support, education, and compassionate medication management.

If you’re considering starting an SSRI and want to explore your options in a safe, collaborative space, I’m here to help.

📍 Serving clients virtually and in-person across Colorado.

Learn more or schedule a consultation at www.sageintegrativepsychiatry.com