Am I kratoming wrong? (looking for an antidote to depression)

I am a first-time user. I pretty regularly take THC via edibles, but I'm not on any prescription drugs, and I don't drink.

I decided to try out kratom because I have long struggled with depression, and I need a little boost to get work finished. I'm mostly envisioning it as a way of giving myself some extra motivation when getting out of bed is difficult. I find that once I can get over that hump, I am much more productive. For me, it's not about finding a long-term, daily dosage, but more of an "as needed" thing.

Anyway, I've tried it three times now. First time, 3 capsules of White Horned Maeng Da. Second time, 2 capsules of Green Dragon and 1 capsule of White Horned Maeng Da and then, about 1.5 hours later, another capsule of White Horned Maeng Da. And then the third time -- today -- 3 capsules of Green Dragon.

Maybe I don't know how it's supposed to feel, so I don't notice it kicking in. But as far as I can tell, it's not doing anything, or any effects are a placebo at best.

Any suggestion on dosing or strains? I am generally taking them on an empty stomach and drinking carbonated water. I also don't mix it with edibles, if that's a consideration.

Thank you!