Does Sertraline lose its effectiveness?

[LavenderLxx]

I was prescribed 50mg of Sertraline for anxiety and depression last August. My father was shortly afterwards given a terminal cancer diagnosis a few weeks later and then sadly died in October. The Sertraline seemed to help with the anxiety but combined with my father’s death the depression got worse.

My GP increased the dose to 100mg in January which seemed to really help for a bit - things felt ‘lighter’ and I felt as though there was some hope again.

Over the last few weeks the feeling of heaviness seems to have returned - I have no motivation for anything. Nothing brings me any joy. I just want to sleep or comfort eat. I’m snappy and irritable at my family. Probate has finally been granted for my father and the thought of dealing with the sale of his house just makes me want to run away and hide. I’m speaking with a therapist too.

Should I ask to increase from 100mg? Or ask to try another antidepressant? My anxiety has definitely improved but the low, hopeless feeling is still there…

Do you drink much. I found alcohol stopped sertraline being so effective. I didn’t feel the effect lessened over time - was on 100mg. Are there other things you can do with diet, exercise? Hope it gets easier. If needed I would go to higher dose

I have the odd glass of wine - I hadn’t thought of that being a problem so I’ll try cutting that out, thank you.

i know I need to eat better and exercise more - but I just can’t find the motivation. I’m so tired and just want to sleep.

That’s understandable, even a walk in the fresh air if you can manage it. Good luck.

I've been on citalopram for 12 years. 6months ago I felt very down. I was facing a lot of ongoing difficult stuff. The GP doubled the dose. I feel loads better now.
You didn't mention your age as peri menopause and menopause also can add more distress (hrt sometimes helps) as can being burnout or mentally or physically exhausted, which is likely after the sad and difficult death of your father. Depression is a normal stage of grief and it could be you might be in the midst of that stage . Time might help?

Sending hugs x

I’m 46 so perimenopause has crossed my mind too. I definitely feel more low around my period.

And you’re right about depression being part of grief - it’s been 6 months since Dad’s death

That's not long at all. You will be grieving.

But hormones can have a huge effect on how we feel. You might be on the run up. .

I also wonder if antidepressants lose their effectiveness.

I hope you find your answer . Depression is horrible ❤️

Thank you for your support x