Can Christians Take Antidepressants? A Pharmacist's Perspective

Written by Valerie Bryan, PharmD, pharmacist and founder of Claimed by God Designs

Pharmacists hear this question more often than you might think, sometimes whispered across the counter, sometimes asked with tears: “Does taking this mean I don't trust God?”

As a pharmacist and a woman of faith, I want to answer that clearly: no. Taking medication for depression or anxiety is not a sign of weak faith. It can be one of the ways God cares for you.

Medicine Isn't the Opposite of Faith

Paul once told Timothy, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23). He didn't tell Timothy to pray harder about his stomach. He gave practical, physical advice to a man of deep faith. When God healed King Hezekiah, Isaiah still applied a poultice of figs (Isaiah 38:21). The Good Samaritan poured oil and wine into a stranger's wounds (Luke 10:34).

Nobody calls it a lack of faith to take insulin for diabetes or an antibiotic for an infection. Your brain is part of the body God made, and it can get sick too.

What Antidepressants Actually Do

Antidepressants (such as SSRIs and SNRIs) work on chemical messengers in the brain like serotonin and norepinephrine. Researchers are still learning exactly how they help, but for many people they lift symptoms enough to sleep, think clearly, get through the day and engage in therapy, prayer and relationships again.

They are not “happy pills.” They don't change who you are, and they can't change what you believe. Many people say medication finally gave them the strength to show up for God and their families.

What I Want You to Know Before You Start

• Give it time. Antidepressants usually take several weeks to reach their full effect. Some side effects show up early and often ease as your body adjusts. Don't judge it in week one.
• Never stop suddenly. Stopping on your own can cause uncomfortable discontinuation symptoms or a relapse. If you want to stop or switch, talk with your prescriber about a plan.
• Tell us everything you take, including supplements and herbal products. St. John's wort, for example, can interact dangerously with many antidepressants.
• Watch for warning signs. In children, teens and young adults under 25, antidepressants carry an FDA warning about increased suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment or after dose changes. Anyone who notices new or worsening dark thoughts, agitation or unusual mood changes should call their doctor right away, or call or text 988.
• Pair it with support. For many people, medication combined with counseling works better than either one alone.
• Use your pharmacist. We're one of the most accessible health professionals you have, and asking questions is free.

About the Shame

If you're carrying guilt over a prescription bottle, hear this: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). God is not disappointed in you for getting care. He is the One who gave people the wisdom to develop it.

Yes, You Can Pray Over Your Pills

Before you take your medication, try a simple prayer: Lord, thank You for the people You gave wisdom to make this. Use it for my healing. My trust is in You, not in a bottle, and I receive this as a gift from Your hand. Amen.

Wear the Reminder

Faith carries us where our own strength can't. Our Faith Took Me Where My Mind Could Not tee is for everyone walking that road. Fellow healthcare workers, see our Christian scrubs and resources for healthcare workers.

Keep Reading

• 30 Bible Verses for Anxiety, and How to Actually Use Them
• Is Seeing a Therapist a Lack of Faith?
• Spiritual Attack or Mental Illness? Why It's Often Both