Need advice on anti-depressants please can mumsnetters help

[Havingatoughtime]

I am a regular poster but name changed. I know thare is a lot afoot on mumsnet at the moment but could do with some advice
Been prescribed an AD sertraline and am breastfeeding.
Anyone had this drug or got experience of it?
Never had AD's before but am really quite poorly - my doctor ( and psychiatrist) say i really do need to take it while I wait (!) for psychologists to see me.
Just have a few silly questions really like can you drink ( I dont drink much just a little bit and want to know if i can still have the odd glass of wine/beer)
Any nasty side effects?
a million and one questions if any one can help
Sorry its long

Message withdrawn

Hi HATT,
How did you get on today? Sorry, I just read through your thread and have to say I think you are doing a great job. I am on Sertraline and have been for 8 months. It has only been the last couple of months that have been bad for me. I went from regular Psychiatrist appointments and good support where i lived before to nothing just a regular prescription where i live now. Chin up chicken, hope you saw your doc today.
Big hugs (god i sound like a flaming teletubby!)
Curly.

Hi everyone.
Must admit I have not read through every SINGLE post so apologies if I am repeating. I have just cut this post by 90% as well so briefly will tell you I have been on Citalopram, Prozac and Sertraline, the first whilst pregnant and breastfeeding. If you wanna know more just ask but it was a long post!
As far a counselling goes it IS life changing. Just be aware that as certain drugs don't suit then the same goes for counsellors. Regard yourself as a consumer - if the product you are getting doesn't suit then try another. Also CBT is given in a 6 week course because of financial constraints on the NHS but also my understanding (have completed my Level 1 certificate) is that it is more to do with changing your behaviour than in depth analysis. It will be a good introduction to get you to open up and to talk about yourself before you decide about your next step. Drugs combined with therapy is by far the most effective method of treating depression.
I have had two excellent counsellors whilst a student. And of course they are free! Maybe an evening or part-time course would give you access to this if money could be an issue as long term therapy can be VERY expensive.
The same goes for your GP. The first GP I ever saw asked me if I had told my mother!!?? I now have a sympathetic and understanding GP whom I see every month.
I would take anything that is offered to you. You have nothing to lose. I would just steer clear of anyone newly qualified if poss. as I wouldn't want you to be put off your first time.
Hang in there - medication can take a while to get right but when it does - you will not believe how good you can feel!
I wish you all the very best. Am empathising....