I think I might need medication but I am afraid of the side effects

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I have been struggling with anxiety which has turned into a horrible low feeling for weeks now. I keep waiting for it to pass. It hasn't. I am considering medication but am not sure for a couple of reasons.

Firstly I don't feel sad all of the time. Last time I was depressed I couldn't get out of bed. It doesn't feel like that. Maybe I am just sad rather than depressed? A lots of changes, probs with my health etc.

Secondly I am worried about side effects. Weight gain, being spaced out. I do creative work and can't afford to feel disconnected. It's a long time since I took antidepressants though (ten years) perhaps they are better these days?

Side effects aren't mandatory - some people get them and other people don't. People also respond differently to any given medication. The only way to know how you will respond is to try it. It sounds as if you are struggling with some life events so counselling might be very beneficial instead of or in addition to medication.

Hi there, Really sorry to hear you are struggling. Horrible to be so anxious. If you don't want to risk side-effects, you could try homeopathy. It can be really effective for anxiety. Here's an article about homeopathy and anxiety www.thrivehomeopathy.com/#!articles-about-homeopathy

Thanks, I am going to try and do without, I just don't want to take the risk. Will look into alternative remedies though.

OP I feel very similar and also wonder about the side effects, especially as I have never taken any before. Been googling councillors near me too to possibly try that first though. I hope you find what works best for you.

Could you ask your GP about CBT?

I worried for ages about side effects, all the time feeling worse and worse.I got a prescription for sertraline and it took me over two months before I started taking them. Eventually I just couldn't carry on like that.

I did have side effects, but they were no where near as bad as I expected. I had a little nausea and a headache and a few restless nights, but it all passed reasonably quickly.

It's still early days for me, I don't know whether they will help yet, but I did feel relieved that I'd taken a step towards helping myself get better.

Not sure what you meant by your reply to my post. Homeopathy IS an alternative system of medicine - natural, non-toxic, no side-effects...or did I misunderstand your post?

I just meant I will follow up your idea, it is a good one thank you.