[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!
i've tried so many different SSRIs and SNRIs
they have all had 0 useful effect on me. i've experienced side effects; digestion issues are the most common. i got uncontrollable leg shaking from one of them. i've never experienced any withdrawal symptoms coming off them, but for most people they are quite bad.
when i was a kid i was put on fluoxetine, and it was just as unhelpful. i wanted to stop and they wouldn't let me, so a few months in, i quit them myself. some months later, my mother commented on how much better i seemed, how well the medication was working. i told her i hadn't been taking it, and she didn't believe me.
i'm now at a point where i absolutely refuse to touch them. the only thing that has actually had an impact on depression for me is ketamine.