[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!
My wife has been on sertraline for about two years now, and it's been nothing short of miraculous for her. She went from passively suicidal on a good day to happy and functional within two months of starting it. She told me that it was the first time since she was 12 that she didn't want to die. She had some mild headaches when she was first titrating up to her full dose, but those went away once the dose stabilized, and she's had pretty much no side effects since. I know she's been incredibly lucky in terms of how she responded and how few side effects she got, but it 100% saved her life.