[jellyfishpng]

i have depression (mdd) and only very recently reached out to a doctor about it. i wasn't told much, and was wondering when medications are perscribed for depression. if it helps, i also self harm by cutting and i have severe and very frequent suicidal thoughts and i'm between the ages of 12 and 15.

thanks

[*Laurie*]

For me, I know I need meds when I'm using a tremendous amount of energy to battle my mental illness symptoms.

Have you been officially diagnosed with mdd? I'm just a bit confused because you said it was your first time reaching out to a doctor about it, which makes it sound like you haven't been told you have mdd. Just curious.

I -think- psychiatrists are more reluctant to put people your age on anti-depressants. Not just because you are so young, but because teens tend to be more likely to get the side effect of suicidal thinking/planning/acting than adults.

Do your parents know what you're currently going through? Have you thought about talking to a therapist, or even a school guidance counsellor? I am not anti-med by any means, but therapy might be something to try before going on medication. Less side effects and all that jazz.

[Victoria'smom]

Usually therapy is used before medication. You want to see a psychiatrist for medication.

[AncientMelody]

Antidepressant medications are associated with a significant rate of serious side effects to people in your age group. Therefore, for mild or even moderate depressive disorders, they aren't the first choice for treatment. Sometimes to, a definite diagnosis isn't made on an initial visit, they want to see you for a few visits before determining whether or not medication is warranted.

Take care and good luck.