just been perscribed citalopram, not sure whether i want to take them?

Sorry to hear you have been feeling as you have. I know your feelings oh so well. Citalopram is effective in treating anxiety but it does cause more anxiety to begin with and it is something you need to take long term every day, for at least 6 months most drs recommend. Maybe therapy would suit you better? Did your dr refer you for cognitive behaviour therapy? How long has this been happening? Can you think of anything that might have triggered it? The thing with anxiety is the more you avoid doing the things like meeting ppl due to anxiety the more anxious you will get when something comes up..like a vicious cycle... you need to feel anxious but go out anyway... easier said than done I know, hence why you have been prescribed these pills. Have you tried any self help methods? There are some good books such as feel the fear and do it anyway and self help for your nerves by clare weekes. Citalopram isnt addictive tho and is very effective in treating anxiety in most people. I have taken it twice for anxiety in the past and it really really helped me x

Dear c41168. I first went on these meds for my balance, I asked if they where addictive, but not much comment, however they have helped !y balance but if I don't take them , my balance is worse so Do you take them or not to help your particular problem . !!! Not much help but being honest. Good luck.

hi! The medication is not addictive but the side effects going on and coming off them can be extreme. I personally would never choose to go on medication without first trying therapy and certainly not without ongoing consultation. I saw a therapist for a year before I started medication and I have suffered chronic anxiety for 10 years. You have to take the medication every single day for a very long time before it works and if you stop suddenly or miss a dose here and there you can get sick.

Studies have found people with mild anxiety respond as well to the medication as a placebo, and that cognitive brain training is just as effective if not better than any medication. 

I think you should 100% see a counsellor/therapist. A GP isn't an expert in mental health by trade - if you had a broken bone you wouldnt go to a GP, you'd go to the hospital. Same thing. You don't need to involve your university just ask your GP for a recommendation and you can get at least 10 subsidised sessions with a therapist/counsellor.

My therapist always gives me an analogy of your anxiety being a mountain you need to climb to recovery. The medication doesnt fix the problem or get you there quicker, it's just a good pair of boots to equip you to climb better. You still need to put the work in - this work includes meditation, mindfulness, exercise, therapy sessions, reading about your illness, setting and reaching goals. There is no magic pill to fix this.

I suggest your first step is to go back to the doctor and ask for a recommendation to a therapist. Find a practitioner you are comfortable with and begin treatment. Leave the tablets alone until you have exhausted every avenue. If you look up any documents, research, info sites, government sites they all say the same thing - medication is the last resort!

Good luck!!