[hn_20591249]

I was skeptical at first when my doctor recommended it, but since starting Zoloft/Sertraline about 3 weeks ago I have been very productive and have for once in my life (late 20s) I feel like I am actually winning in my battle with anxiety/stress.

I am not one to immediately recommend anti-depressants, and will be looking to wean myself off in the future, but in my current state I have found it extremely beneficial.

[whats_a_quasar]

+1 to SSRIs. One thing that's under-emphasized is that trying SSRIs is an experiment, rather than a commitment. After 5-6 weeks if they don't work for you or the side effects aren't worth it, you can drop them no problem. So if you feel like you might have clinically significant anxiety or depression, really consider an experiment.

I've had friends that have hated the side effects or not seen much benefit, who stopped. And I've had friends who've start and it's like a cloud has lifted - described as the best decision of their life.

[Paul-Craft]

+1 to "experiment, not a commitment," but I would also add that you really need to give them a fair shake if you're going to try them. For most antidepressant drugs, that's going to be a full 6 week trial.

Personally, I learned from my experiments that I can eat Lexapro like candy (not literally, but you get the drift) and it doesn't do anything for me, but Prozac, Wellbutrin, and Effexor have been good to me. IIRC, response rates overall to antidepressant medications are in the 40-50% range, so you might get lucky and find your wonder drug on the first try, or you might have to try more than one. Failing an antidepressant trial can certainly be a frustrating experience, but I would certainly advise anyone who asked to commit to trying up to 3 different antidepressants before throwing in the towel on these medications entirely.