Ashwagandha is not an antidepressant medication. Some studies show improvements in stress or anxiety scores, but that does not equal treatment of clinical depression. Depression is a medical condition that may require psychotherapy and/or medication. Supplements can only play a supportive role in selected cases and should not replace standard care. If symptoms are persistent and impact daily function, professional evaluation comes first. If you take antidepressants, do not add supplements without medical advice due to interaction risk.