[CW: DEPRESSION]
spoiler
I've been at a really low point with my mental health, I've lost the motivation to do most things save for personal hygiene and grooming. I wouldn't say that my situation is severe thankfully, but it is seriously hindering my academic, physical health, career prospects, and personal relationships. I want to talk to my doctor and get started on antidepressants before I really lose control of my life.
One of my close friends is on antidepressants and that gave me enough courage to actually seek help from my primary care physician. But right now I need some more information.
My question: Those of you who are on -or have been on- antidepressants, what were your experiences? I'm really worried about side effects (mainly CNS, Autonomic, and especially the risk of serotonin syndrome) while taking these kinds of drugs. But I'd also like to know about your experiences first taking them, how you've adjusted to doses, and how you overall felt. Experiences with other therapies are also welcome!
Please don't be shy, and share as much as you feel comfortable! Thank you!
SSRIs really seem to be a die roll person to person. I have a friend that they worked great for, for me though all they did was make me so fat I got even more depressed.
I'm bi-polar and major depressive so my cocktail is probably geared a little different than what you need. But here it is anyway. Lamictal has been a good help for the (sad?) depression, venlaflaxin has been a fucking huge help for the angry depression and the mania. And propanol has helped with the anxiety which has had a knock on bonus with the depression, although I want to get off of it. It apparently can have extreme long term side effects.
I also am a god damn alchemist at self meditation. Kratom, THC, CBD, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine etc can all be titrated and timed for different effects. Takes a while to figure out how to stack things for best effect but it really makes a difference knowing how to tweak your mood when you need too.