Feeling discouraged

[L.kat]

Hi, all. I'm new to the forum but it's been very helpful in giving me a sense of community. I've been dealing with anxiety since my teenage years (30 now) and health anxiety for about 2 years off and on.
It's gotten to the point that I finally agreed to medication and CBT. I was prescribed Sertraline but the side effects we're horrible even on 25mg so after a week or so, I started cutting it in half. I no longer take it at all as I've experienced my 2 worst anxiety attacks to date while on the meds. My husband also said I seemed more moody and unhappy while taking them. My follow up with the doc is next Monday so we'll see what she says from there. My first CBT appointment isn't for another 3 weeks.
I'm just feeling like I'm not going to feel normal again. I'm doing everything I can to live a healthier life but nothing seems to be helping.
Sorry for the lengthy post. Just looking for some hope and solidarity.

 

[AnnaRose322]

Hi, all. I'm new to the forum but it's been very helpful in giving me a sense of community. I've been dealing with anxiety since my teenage years (30 now) and health anxiety for about 2 years off and on.
It's gotten to the point that I finally agreed to medication and CBT. I was prescribed Sertraline but the side effects we're horrible even on 25mg so after a week or so, I started cutting it in half. I no longer take it at all as I've experienced my 2 worst anxiety attacks to date while on the meds. My husband also said I seemed more moody and unhappy while taking them. My follow up with the doc is next Monday so we'll see what she says from there. My first CBT appointment isn't for another 3 weeks.
I'm just feeling like I'm not going to feel normal again. I'm doing everything I can to live a healthier life but nothing seems to be helping.
Sorry for the lengthy post. Just looking for some hope and solidarity.

I’m also on sertraline. I’ve been off an on it for a few years. The first time I didn’t have a lot of issues with it. The second time, I started back on 100 mg and had, as you said, one of the worst anxiety attacks of my life. So I started taking 50 instead. It took a few months, but now I am able to function pretty normally. However, I’ve been getting really moody, too. I’m thinking that exercising and avoiding certain foods helps me more than SSRIs, but I can’t be sure. I can relate to what you’re going through. It’s taking awhile but I’m starting to have more good days than bad.

 

[Kelculator]

I'm sorry to hear that. Please do not feel discoraged, although lame to say-- It really does get better, maybe even when you least expect it. When my psychiatrist first prescribed me my meds, he told me about the possible % of patients experiencing side effects like you mentioned-- feeling irritated, down etc. Maybe this type of medication is just a wrong fit for you. Medication has been the greatest help to recovery for me, so keep your spirit. Even if it ends up not working, we are here for you and there are still many alternatives for you.

 

[L.kat]

Thank you both. I'm hopeful that my doctor will suggest an alternative medication that is a better fit when I see her tomorrow. @AnnaRose322 -Yes! I feel the same way about dietary changes helping my body and mind to function better. I've also started taking probiotics with hopes of improved mental health. And spring cannot come soon enough here in WI. I desperately need more time outside in the dirt.