How Follow-ups Work: Refills, Messaging, and Ongoing Care

Follow-up visits are an important part of safe, effective mental health care. They create space to review how you are feeling, what is improving, what is not, and whether the plan needs to change. Early in treatment, follow-ups are usually more frequent. Many patients are seen again in two to six weeks when starting or adjusting medication. Once symptoms are stable, visits are typically spaced farther apart.

Refills are most often handled during scheduled follow-ups. This approach allows your provider to confirm benefits, review side effects, and monitor safety. Some medications require closer monitoring and may not be refilled without an appointment. If you are running low, request refills early so there is time to review your chart and respond.

Secure messaging can be useful for brief questions, clarification, and care coordination.

Ongoing care also includes shared goal setting. Together you and your provider will track symptoms, sleep, focus, mood, and function over time. The plan can include medication, therapy, lifestyle support, and referrals when needed. Consistent follow-up helps maintain progress and reduce setbacks.