Crushed - Effexor is an excellent antidepressant - but they don't really categorize antidepressants as being for "mild" or "severe". Still, it is great news that he is going on the antidepressants.
Some things to know: - although drugs in this class sometimes work very quickly (I have seen people respond within days) it can take up to 3 or 4 weeks to start to see a response (took my H about 3 weeks on Prozac) - so be very patient.
- antidepressants can reduce sex drive or inhibit the ability to orgasm - Effexor does this less than most, but just be aware so you don't take it personally if his drive slips a little bit.