Depression Treatment : How to Get Antidepressants Online
Taking medicine for depression can help you get your life back to normal, especially if you bundle it with counseling. Talking to a counselor can help you determine if your depression symptoms are moderate enough for antidepressants, or if a few lifestyle changes could give you the same relief. We understand that many people prefer to go virtual rather than coming into the office for a physical appointment. If you are interested in getting antidepressants online, simply book a virtual appointment with our psychiatric nurse practitioner to get started on your personalized treatment plan. If our psychiatrist determines that depression medication is the best route, there is no need to be ashamed. Depression is a health problem, not a character flaw within yourself.
What are antidepressants
Antidepressants have become a popular treatment choice for those suffering from depression. Although antidepressants may not cure depression, they can reduce your symptoms. There are a number of antidepressants available that work in slightly different ways, so it may take a bit of trial and error to find the right medication for you. While antidepressants are associated with depression, these medications are known to relieve symptoms of social anxiety disorder, anxiety disorders, seasonal affective disorder, dysthymia, or mild chronic depression, as well as other conditions.
Who can prescribe antidepressants?
There is a common misconception that any mental health provider can prescribe medication for conditions such as depression. While therapists and counselors can help you discuss and navigate these feelings, there are only a few licensed professionals who can prescribe antidepressants.
Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who has been trained to assess, diagnose and treat mental health conditions such as depression. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, however, they do not always offer counseling.
Psychiatric Nurse: A psychiatric-mental health nurse has completed their master’s degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing, and can assess and diagnose disorders. Advanced psychiatric nurses known as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners (NPs) work as clinical nurses in hospital settings, private clinics, and other treatment centers to offer psychotherapy and prescribe medications.
Bernadette Ackerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernadette has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 1999. She became a nurse practitioner after spending twenty years as a psychiatric nurse. Over the course of her 40 year career, Bernadette has worked alongside veteran populations, geriatrics, adults and adolescents. She has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and believes in the combination of therapy and medication management.
“I have over 20 years of experience in prescribing psychiatric medications to different populations for a variety of diagnosis. As a nurse practitioner, I approach every client in a very holistic manner. I believe very strongly that use of medication is a tool, one of many, to achieve optimal mental health. I strongly believe in engaging my clients into the use of medication if it serves their belief system. My goal for the use of medication is always to make the client feel better!”
How can I get antidepressants online?
Remote / virtual therapy
Online therapy is an amazing tool for clients who are seeking mental health guidance without the worries or stress of going to a physical appointment. By choosing virtual therapy, you can begin speaking with our psychiatric nurse practitioner immediately and fast-track your treatment plan. When speaking with our psychiatric nurse practitioner, Bernadette, be sure to mention all of the emotional and physical symptoms you are experiencing. This will help her determine the best medication for you. If and when you are ready to begin medication management, Bernadette can call in your medication to the pharmacy of your choice.
Antidepressant side effects
Like all medications, antidepressants come with side effects. The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Each type has its own side effects, however the most common occurrences include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Sexual problems
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Tremors
- Increased sweating
Most of these side effects will go away once your body adapts to the medication. This can take anywhere from a few days to two weeks on average.
Depression Treatment in St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida
If you are experiencing any symptoms of depression, we encourage you to call our office. The team at McNulty Counseling and Wellness takes a holistic approach to promote balance in all areas of your life. We understand that not all brains react alike. We offer a variety of treatments and virtual therapy options to ensure that you are paired with your perfect program. Contact us here or call us at 727-344-9867 to schedule a remote consultation or an in-person session at our Saint Petersburg or Tampa, Florida office.
