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Starting sertraline whilst on Mirtazapine?

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mona41
mona41

Hi everyone I really really need your advice on how to get through with my life.

*Been depressed/anxiety for 4 years.

*Not had a real job for almost 2 years.

*Been taking Mirtazapine 30mg for ~2 years. Makes depression better but not anxiety.

*Tried to come off of Mirtazapine once, made it for 5 months with nothing and then had to start again due to severe anxiety (could not leave house)

*I must look for work now (can't be depressed anymore says government) even though I'm a mental disaster.

*3 days ago started taking sertraline 50mg in hopes of relieving anxiety to be able to work.

Right now I feel very numb, almost like my head is in the sky (I have a hard time focusing). Having the typical symtoms when starting sertraline (Nausea, no appetite, blurred vision)

I don't know if this is the right thing to do, I cannot work with only mirtazapine due to severe anxiety so something has to be done, yet i can't feel this numb?

My anxiety is so bad all my muscles are tense so that when i pinch them they spasm due to the tightness.

Is it possible to try Sertraline for 2-3 weeks to see if it works and then just quit it without severe issues?

Sometimes I have very bad thoughts, I cannot go on like this!!

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Shed1976
    Shed1976 mona41

    Posted

    Hi Mona,

    Everyone of us is different, so I can only tell you of my experience and it's up to you what you do with the information.

    I personally have only ever taken Sertraline (and although I know coming off it will be extremely difficult) it has helped manage my depression and anxiety (which for me, go hand in hand) over the years.

    When I started taking it though, it took 4-6 weeks to start lifting my mood. At that point, I was desperately ill and had no understanding of depression and anxiety.

    I distinctly remember my doctor saying (admittedly around 13 years ago) Sertraline was the 'Rolls Royce' of antidepressants.

    It has worked well for me but I have had to do a hell of a lot of work on gaining insight into depression and anxiety, along with working back to the reason why I have a tendency to them. That stems from a traumatic childhood experience. I have also had to learn to manage my depression and recognise the early warning signs.

    My point is that I cannot say Sertraline is the answer for you but you will need to give it time to see if it helps.

    With regards to the other drug you are taking (Mitrazapine) I ave a close friend who was on it many years ago and it made her think she was losing her mind.

    Also, please try to remember you are only having those thoughts because your mood is so low. That is why they feel so real and overwhelming.

    As I said at the beginning, all I can do is tell you about my experience.

    Please don't give up, light will always drive out darkness.

    C

  • christinekay
    christinekay mona41

    Posted

    Shed1976 is right. Unfortunately it takes time and patience. And telling someone with anxiety to calm down it will work eventually is not the best response. If someone tells me to relax and take a breathe I want to stab them with a fork. These forums are filled with so many good people. Lean on us. You can do it.
  • hans82434
    hans82434 mona41

    Posted

    Check interactions between these two drugs as they may not play well together. Doctors dont always check for you. You can do this online.
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