Why Patience Matters With Psychiatric Medications: Trusting the Process

By Lorrie Smith-Esterle, DNP, PMHNP-BC

KENTUCKY PSYCHIATRIC CARE, PLLC

Starting a psychiatric medication often brings a mix of hope, anxiety, and understandable impatience. When symptoms of depression, anxiety, or mood instability are affecting daily life, it is natural to want relief as quickly as possible.

At Kentucky Psychiatric Care, PLLC, one of the most important conversations we have with patients is about allowing psychiatric medications adequate time to work as intended.

Psychiatric Medications Take Time

Medications such as SSRIs and SNRIs, as well as adjunctive medications commonly added to antidepressants—such as Caplyta, Vraylar, and Rexulti—do not work overnight. These medications support gradual changes in brain chemistry.

For most antidepressants, the typical time frame for full therapeutic benefit is approximately 4 to 6 weeks.

Some individuals may notice early improvements within the first couple of weeks, such as better sleep, slightly improved energy, or a mild lift in mood. However, these early changes do not reflect the medication’s full effect. Continuing the medication for the full 4–6 weeks is essential to determine whether it is truly effective.

The Risks of Stopping Too Soon

Many patients stop medications after only one or two weeks due to lack of immediate improvement or the presence of mild side effects. While these concerns are completely understandable, discontinuing treatment prematurely often prevents medications from reaching their full therapeutic potential.

Following the agreed-upon treatment plan and allowing sufficient time for response are critical to treatment success. Early discontinuation can lead to unnecessary medication changes, frustration, and prolonged symptoms.

Understanding Early Side Effects

When starting psychiatric medications, some individuals may experience mild to moderate side effects, such as:

• Nausea or diarrhea

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Fatigue or sleep changes

Although uncomfortable, these effects are often temporary and typically resolve within the first couple of weeks as the body adjusts. Importantly, early side effects do not necessarily mean a medication is ineffective or inappropriate.

Why We Start Low and Titrate Slowly

This adjustment period is why psychiatric medications are often started at lower doses and gradually increased. A slow titration helps minimize side effects and improves overall tolerability. Beginning at a full therapeutic dose can increase discomfort and raise the risk of early discontinuation.

Gradual dose adjustments allow the brain and body time to adapt safely while optimizing long-term outcomes.

Medication Treatment Is a Partnership

Successful psychiatric treatment involves more than prescribing medication—it requires a clear, collaborative plan between patient and provider. Early in treatment, follow-up visits are typically more frequent to monitor symptom response, side effects, and dosing adjustments. Once symptoms are well controlled and medications are stabilized, visits can often be spaced further apart.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I encourage patients to view medication treatment as a partnership built on open communication, realistic expectations, and patience. If concerns arise early in treatment, it is important to contact your provider rather than stopping medication on your own. In many cases, reassurance, time, or a thoughtful adjustment can significantly improve outcomes.

Trusting the Process

Developing a treatment plan, adhering to it consistently, and allowing medications the time they need to work are essential steps toward long-term mental health stability. At Kentucky Psychiatric Care, PLLC, we are committed to supporting you through every phase of your treatment journey.