So I saw my psychiatrist today and we decided that an antidepressant may help me atm. We discussed a number of different options: paroxetine (Paxil), venlafaxine (Effexor), sertraline (Zoloft), mirtazepine (Remeron), escitalopram (Lexapro)... I've taken Lexapro in the past and found it mildly helpful, with the only noticeable side effect being lowered libido so common amoung SSRIs. I wanted to try something different this time, so I'm going to try Zoloft 50mg and see how that goes -- maybe up it to 100mg or keep at 50mg.
I've been really apprehensive about taking meds again, especially every day. I've tried St John's Wort but that didn't really do anything (maybe eased the depression a bit). However, it was pointed out me that the haphazard self-medicating I've been doing (e.g. alcohol, more than the recommended amount of Valium) is just as bad if not worse than taking an antidepressant. A good point. I also think I'll get more out of therapy if I'm able to discuss the issues at the root of my PTSD without falling into a black pit of anxiety and despair.
So, here goes; I'm going to start taking it tomorrow. Wish me minimal/no side effects and high efficacy!
I've been really apprehensive about taking meds again, especially every day. I've tried St John's Wort but that didn't really do anything (maybe eased the depression a bit). However, it was pointed out me that the haphazard self-medicating I've been doing (e.g. alcohol, more than the recommended amount of Valium) is just as bad if not worse than taking an antidepressant. A good point. I also think I'll get more out of therapy if I'm able to discuss the issues at the root of my PTSD without falling into a black pit of anxiety and despair.
So, here goes; I'm going to start taking it tomorrow. Wish me minimal/no side effects and high efficacy!