Try not to drink alcohol. Alcohol on its own can make your depression worse, but it can also make you particularly slow and drowsy if you are taking antidepressants. This can lead to problems with driving - indeed with any activities that require concentration. Keep them out of the reach of children. Tell your doctor as soon as possible and give your tablets to someone else to keep for you.
Some people are unfortunate enough to experience severe depressions over and over again.
Even when they have got better they may need to take antidepressants for several years, to stop their depression coming back. This is particularly important in older people, who are more likely to have several periods of depression. If you have doubts about this or any further questions which haven't been covered in this fact sheet, have a word with your doctor or psychiatrist. If you need information about the particular antidepressant you are taking, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Factsheets may be photocopied and distributed free of charge as long as the Royal College of Psychiatrists is properly credited and no profit is gained from their use.