Hi everyone,
I have battling anxiety for about 3 to 4 years now, been fighting not to take medication. I was given Diazepam but that hasn't worked. So I was given sertraline but I've read the side effects and im actually really scared to take it. I want my life back but still really scared to take it. Can anyone give me some advice.
I have ben given Sertraline for my anxiety but Im scared of the side affects?
Question posted by James2321 on 1 Oct 2021
Last updated on 1 October 2021
Answers
WildcatVet
1 Oct 2021
Hi, James! I understand you're hesitant to take a new medication but there are a few things you should know.
First of all, not everyone experiences side effects and if they do for most people they're mild and subside over just days to a week or two.
You won't get all or most of them if you have any.
The most common (nausea, headache, insomnia) can all be remedied with OTC products on the advice of your pharmacist.
Think of it this way, even if you have side effects what's a week or so compared to the life you've been living for years? Sertraline is not a cover up for your symptoms but actually addresses the chemical imbalance that's causing your anxiety.
One word of warning... when some people start this type of medication there may be some increased anxiety for a short while but it'll resolve.
It's your anxiety that's preventing you from wanting to try the medication and that's exactly what the medication is for.
If you have questions or concerns along the way just post again, okay?
James2321
1 Oct 2021
Hi Wildcat,
Thank you for you answer. I understand not everyone experiences side effects. I don't think i'll mind the nausea, headaches and insomnia but im just really concerned that I will get severe increased anxiety. I've read that you can also get panic attacks, panic sweats and im still very scared to tell you the truth.
Kind Regards
James2321
WildcatVet
1 Oct 2021
You're not alone... I think we all were scared in the beginning. But you've made those first steps reaching out for help which tells me you're fed up with your anxiety taking over your life and making you miserable.
What milligram dosage is your medication? Your doctor probably is having you start on a low dose to help minimize or eliminate any side effects while your metabolism adjusts to the drug in your system. You can always raise or lower your dose if it's needed.
It's okay to be scared but don't let your anxiety make decisions for you. It's a nasty business and you need to get rid of it.
James2321
1 Oct 2021
Yes I know. I don't want my anxiety to control my life. I have been given a 50mg dosage. Thank you for talking with me. I feel like im weak by going to medication.
James
WildcatVet
1 Oct 2021
You're not weak! You have a disorder that you didn't ask for and it needs to be treated. Is a diabetic weak if he takes insulin or a cancer patient who takes chemotherapy? It's no different than any other disease.
See how things go and you might want to consider getting referred to a therapist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can really help identify triggers and stressors and teach you better ways of dealing with your reactions to them. I've been doing a similar therapy for PTSD and it's made a world of difference in my life.
BTW, you're welcome... this forum is here to share advice and personal experiences.
Take care,
James2321
1 Oct 2021
Yes, Very True. I am have started CBT with Therapy For You, even my therapist says it good that I've taken to the step of medication. I will give it a try. Thank you very much for your support.
James
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anxiety, diazepam, sertraline, side effect, medication
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