Starting Medication for the first time

[Mendel]

Hi Everyone,

Literally two days ago I started a low dose of some SSRi medication for my anxiety. I am still on a low dose now and going up on my dosage tomorrow and my anxiety levels are pretty high at the moment. My fear of the side effects which I am starting to feel. And I do try and tell myself that the side effects I am feeling could just be from my heightened anxiety from taking the medication. But I am just curious if anyone has gone through something similar, or might be able to reassure me that everything is all pretty standard.

The side effects I have noticed have been some dry mouth, dizziness and some diarrhoea. And I am just feeling really agitated and anxious.
Not really sure what to do, and my instant thought is that this medication is providing me with negative effects due to some other sinister reason.

Thanks everyone,

Greatly Appreciated

Mendel

[blondguy]

Hi Mendel

It is very understandable to have concerns when we start taking meds...I used to be just as worried as yourself...Even though I was initially anti-meds it was best decision I ever made...(by starting a low dose SSRI)

For me they helped overcome the bulk of my anxiety and depression as well...with ongoing counselling as the meds are never a fix all...Yet they do provide us with a solid foundation on which we can heal a lot easier than without them..:-)

In this early stage of starting meds...even with a low dosage...Feel comfortable talking to your GP about how you feel...This is a huge help as it will reduce your anxiety provoking fear about being on the meds at this time

Any medication will give us some side effects Mendel....Having some side effects are always common in the early days yet you will only benefit by sticking with your doctors advice

When I started on my low dose SSRI's the box of meds came with a super long list of 'possible' side effects...These scared me at the time until I realised it was only a disclaimer from the pharmaceutical company

I am sure we have spoken before Mendel...Good on you for being so proactive with your health!

you are amazing

Paul

[Mendel]

Hi Paul,

I appreciate that prompt response. It was quite interesting as leading up to taking the medication, I was very much excited about what it will give me. My mindset being that it will help balance me and I can then use that as a way to use therapy to work through my anxiety from a more advantageous position. But I didn't anticipate the anxiety I would have once taking it.
You are absolutely right about that long list of side effects that they give you. Fairly daunting.

I am lucky that I have a good relationship with my GP that I am able to call him during work hours if need be. And it is something that keeps me feeling comfortable knowing I can do that.

We have spoken before.. and watching you provide support for all of those in need is rather inspiring and also comforting.
So I thank you for what you have done Paul, you make us all feel comfortable.

Mendel

[sometimesanxious]

The first few weeks of starting new meds is always tough.

its normal for your anxiety levels to increase a little and I believe most of the side effects you are getting a more normal and will pass as your body adjusts to they medication.

its still early days. Give it a few weeks 🙂

[Mendel]

Just thought I would add to this as I’m needing a bit is reassurance at the moment

I haven’t been on here in a couple of weeks as I’ve been a bit distracted but also feeling really good.
I’ve been on an ssri for about 5.5 weeks now and towards the end of last week I was feeling great.

But a couple of day’s ago, I started feeling really anxious and that’s been continuing till now.
I am curious if it is common for there to be periods where anxiety might increase even after feeling really and whether it will go away.
I am fairly nervous about the idea that it is a sign the medication isn’t for me. Even if I did have a lot of improvement.

many thanks,

hope you’re all staying safe

Mendelle