Experiences starting sertraline

[Pinkhats]

I’ve just started sertraline after struggling for 18 months after my first baby was born however they’re making me feel so nauseous all day, and I can barely sleep at night, my mind is racing for hours. Has anyone experienced this too? I’m really hoping it stops soon as I don’t feel like I can keep taking them. Would love some positive stories if anyone wants to share.

I absolutely understand about the side effects, but please do power through, the side effects do abate and it will be worth it.

I didn't manage to get through the first 48 hours (which I now know are the hardest) and I so regret it now, it took a solid 8 months of cbt and self care work to get back to just being functional.

My SIL had similar side effects, but they settled completely after a week, and she is so much better for taking them.

@Timeforabiscuit thanks so much for replying. I’m on day 3 now so hopefully it doesn’t get any worse than it is. I thought I was sleeping bad before I started taking them😂.

Can I ask how you found cbt? My doctor has also recommended it along side medication but I don’t know anyone in real life to ask about experiences.

I found it awful, and just when it got bearable - as in, I was used to feeling bad, not that it had gone away - I'd go up another 50mg and it would get even worse again. I've just come off it and that's been pretty bad too!

The Cognitive Behavioural Therapy was incredibly helpful for me, my main problem was recognising emotions and how my body was feeling, it took lots of practice but I'm in a much better place now, and still use the techniques when I recognise things aren't right.

I would say absolutely access through the NHS, I've tried various private talking therapies and employee assistance programs - but the NHS service (although only a fixed number if sessions) worked incredibly well and was definitely the most effective at addressing my underlying issues.

Sorry to hear about your symptoms. I had mild nausea but was lucky. Just to say the medication itself has been life changing. I spent years trying to avoid it and pretending to myself I was fine and the difference has been amazing. Just wanted to share a positive story. Not right for all but lifted the cloud. Good luck xx

I didn’t have physical symptoms but found initially my anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts got worse. About 3 weeks in, they abated. At 6 weeks I felt like a different person.