Are there any dangers associated with taking antidepressants?

Yes, many. Most people have to try a few different ones before finding the one that works for them. The side effect of "suicidal thoughts" is a very real side effect and you should take it very seriously. However, knowing about it is half the battle. The other half is letting those around you know about it as well, so they can watch you and help you through it if you feel that way, by reminidng you it's just a side effect and will pass and being there for you, instead of thinking you truly are suicidal which might escalate things. Changes in dosage are usually the cause of this, not when you are steadily on the medication. So when you are starting, and increasing the dosage (graudually), or when the dosage is being adjusted for you, or when you are done and are being "tapered" off, or weaned off. My husband has had some extreme side effects from an antidepressant he was being taken off of and starting another, his doctor did not bother to "taper" him off the first one, just cut him off cold and started gradually introducing the new one, never warned him about side effects, and never warned me either to watch him for any, ad never kept an eye on him herself, took off for a month long vacation - needless to say, we don't deal with her anymore. The result is that he went through an extreme reaction where it came to the point of he attempted suicide and I had to call 911 and it's since caused us all sorts of issues, up to today, all the way from back in January, even though he's back to "normal" now, whatever that is. So long story short, knowledge is certianly #1 defence against this side effect and you seem to have that already, so just let people close to you know about it too, until you have reached the therapeutic dose and the side effects subside. once the medication starts working a few weeks in, you'll be the better for it!

Don't be frightened. They're designed to help you. Just like any other medication, there are possible side effects. And just because some people experience them doesn't mean you're guaranteed to as well. If you're worried, have someone close to you keep an eye on you. If you find that the antidepressants have caused you to change for the worse, than you can tell your doctor you want to stop the treatment. Good luck.

It depends what you're taking. I've heard that Seroxat (Paroxetine) can make you violent or suicidal.

You also should be aware that some antidepressants can be very difficult to come off after you start taking them. Don't get me wrong, some people do need to take antidepressants, but I worry that they're over prescribed. It's common to experience some adverse effects.

Don't drink while you are on them. That's all I know. And don't do too many of them. Sounds like speed.

Make sure you take them only under a Doctors care

It's fine to be worried. That's kind of why you're about to start taking them.
I'm on Lexapro and don't feel at all suicidal, but I wasn't suicidal to begin with either.
Good luck with the medication, here's hoping it works for you. Remember it can take a few months to feel the full effects so don't give up hope too soon.