It took me about three months at least before Abilify started being truly effective. At least six months is needed for its full effect. I am now on the shot and it works for me. I am stable and have no psychotic symptoms. Of course, I take it for psychosis, not depression. I don't have depression. I have schizoaffective disorder with mania. Each medication has its side effects. The side effects for me are weight gain and hand tremor.