Getting out of mental health rut

[Evolver]

How have you gotten out of a debilitating episode of anxiety and depression?

The type where consistently getting up and out, eating, washing is an issue. Am reluctant to take meds, due to fear of it making things worse (have no support irl).

Would really appreciate advice from anyone who has been through similar, thanks.

Going for a walk every day at the same time - preferably early. Especially when the weather is bad!! Not sure what it is but it really helps. And I don’t mean to minimise your problems or sound glib, I have felt suicidal at times and this is the one way I know to raise my spirits.

good luck - life can be hard and the hardest thing is knowing that you are the only person who can change things for yourself.

Honestly, the meds are the best thing I’ve ever done. I understand your hesitations but no amount of yoga/walks/bubble baths/healthy food shops has ever helped me like sertraline has.

The first time I went on it I had some physical side effects but no mental ones. The second time I went on it I did have a very rough week mentally but less physical side effects. It’s different for everyone each time you go on it. Take care of yourself x

Thanks for replying.

Usually, I love going for walks, but am struggling to get out of bed and leave the house.

@BeTealUser How was it coming off them? Also, it's interesting that you were affected differently each time when getting started.

When you do get up, make your bed. Makes a really big difference I've found as to how I feel. Can you order in some healthy food or pre prepped stuff?

Totally fine the first time and I did it myself without going to the GP 😬 I’ve been on sertraline again for a year now and in that time made some big life changes so feeling ready to come off it. I’m going to make an appt to speak to the GP this time though. Before sertraline I had been barely getting by for so so long but I feel like a new person. I used a CBT app the GP “prescribed” for me as well which was also helpful.

@BeTealUser thanks so much for sharing.

I begun taking Sertraline today, this is my first ever experience with anti-depressants.

Fingers crossed.