Sertraline

[Topaz89]

Is it normal for anxiety to sky rocket in the early days of taking Sertraline? Do your symptoms tend to get worse before they get better?

Yes...very normal. You experience the side effects long before the benefits unfortunately. It is probably why so many people stop drugs like setraline in the early days because it is making them feel worse so they think it isn't working. It will get better though.

What day are you on Topaz? I'm on day 7. My anxiety isUchida worse since taking them. I've been on sertraline before and it takes 4-6 weeks to feel better in my experience. I don't want to come off them again! How are you feeling- what are your symptoms? I'm finding the side effects hard to deal with. Stick with it and it will be worth it x

I'm on day 2. My anxiety is bad as it is, so the thought of it getting worse is worrying. But I just want to feel better. I have depression and anxiety and really bad insomnia after a traumatic time in my life. I just want them to work so I can feel normal again.

I keep telling myself they will work. Luckily I've been through the start up before so I know myself they will work. I think you just have to grit your teeth (literally if you are clenching your jaw all day like me!) And keep on letting the days pass. It's so frustrating though and it can add to the anxiety.
Are you looking after yourself well- nice hot baths, early nights, favourite foods? A hot chocolate and a blanket watching a non threatening film is calming. Self care is vital I think. Phone a trusted friend, stroke a pet if you have one, cuddle your DCs, focus on getting better.

I can't say I am looking after myself no. I can't sleep at the moment and not very keen on my food. Don't like watching films or listening to music either. I don't really like much at the moment! I'm just one big mess.

Big hugs Topaz. Hang in there... my GP prescribed diazepam so if I'm not driving or working i take one if those to relax me. It's not for the long term just to get me through the next couple of weeks. Sleeping is hard. Take care.

I started these a few weeks ago, I found the first week hard and then it got better, I think I have actually cried more, but appropriately rather than bottling it up. They also made me sleepy so have started taking them in the early evening as it has actually helped me sleep