Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Anxiety Annie on May 12, 2023, 01:37:36 PM
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I have just been prescribed Sertraline, to help with my low mood and extremely anxiety, I am a bit concerned about using AD as I never have! I worry that I may become addicted and also the side effects. Has anyone used Sertraline for low mood and anxiety? Thank you
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Hi there,
Yep. I have been taking sertraline for, maybe, 18 months now. I have always been troubled with anxiety (to some level). When my anxiety ramped up many years ago, I took escitalopram for a while and then came off it when I felt things had settled down. I felt that my anxiety got worse a couple of years ago (at age 56). I soon went on sertraline and have been on it ever since. I started HRT at the same time. My anxiety is completely under control now. Trouble is, I don't know whether it's the HRT, the sertraline or a combination of both so, for that reason, I have no plans to stop taking the sertraline.
I had a problem with diarrhea for the first few weeks on sertraline but absolutely no other issues.
I can honestly say that I feel bright, calm and happy and certainly feel that I could stop by tapering off (if I wanted to)..
Hope this helps 🙏
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Does Sertraline increase hunger pangs?
Songbird: if it ain't broke don't fix, stick with the regime that works. Saves having to think about 'what next' ;-).
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I haven’t had any increase in hunger pangs with sertraline, CLKD. I also agree with the “if it ain’t broke”, approach. I’ve no intention of changing anything ;)
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If it helps you then it is so worth using. You do not become addicted to AD's but if you stop them suddenly then you can feel unwell due to the shock to the body. If a person wanted to stop it then you just do it slowly tapering off.
AD's are truly wonderful and can save lives. I know I could not cope without mine.
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Yep, agreed, Flossie.
I think the stigma that, no doubt, existed a while ago is not as prevalent nowadays. The understanding of the intricacies of how our brains work, the understanding of how debilitating mental health issues can be and the obvious benefits of the new drugs mean that it’s perfectly ok to take what you have to take to make you what I would describe as “normal, balanced, happy and not anxious”.
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Hi Annie
I have been taking Sertraline for around 18 months or so too. I have gradually upped the dose over this period and haven’t had any side effects at all. I’m on hrt too, Unfortunately I’m still getting really bad episodes of depression so perhaps need to seek an alternative AD, but they did help me initially.
As Flossie says you can’t get addicted to ADs.
I hope they help x
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Thank you to all of you lovely ladies, your advice is sooooo appreciated. The prescription has been sitting in my kitchen counter for a few days now. I even get anxiety about the medication that can help me. I am also on HRT but only a few months in! When is the best time of day to take, does it make you sleepy ?
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Annie - what did your GP suggest as to when to take it? Any info in the leaflet in the box?
I no longer tell any1 about the medication cocktail that I take - they don't know when I change my socks so why tell them about anything else ;-).
Go for it. If it doesn't help after 6-8 months, then a rethink perhaps? I will tell my friend that his night time munchies aren't related ;-)
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Thank you to all of you lovely ladies, your advice is sooooo appreciated. The prescription has been sitting in my kitchen counter for a few days now. I even get anxiety about the medication that can help me. I am also on HRT but only a few months in! When is the best time of day to take, does it make you sleepy ?
I’ve always taken mine in the morning as soon as I get up, they have never made me sleepy. It’s so normal to be anxious about taking any medication. It’s worth giving them a try and hoping they help you x
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I take sertraline first thing in the morning too. Like ToriiJ, I never feel sleepy. Best of luck with whatever you decide Annie..
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Thank you, ladies, honestly my head is in a different planet at the moment, I have completely lost the ability to make simple decisions!!! I overthink almost everything. I do hope this dark cloud passes soon and I can see the sunshine again.
I truly appreciate the honest advice that this group gives, love to you all xx
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My daughter was prescribed Sertraline two years ago, severe anxiety,ptsd and depression. It has been life changing for her and us as awful to see your child in such a bad way. She has recently cut down from a 100 mg to 50 mg and is doing very well so it isn't addictive.
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A very trusted GP of mine many years ago, recommended sertraline as the best one for me should I take one, and he said it is calming and not stimulating, so if I were ever to try one that would be it probably. I've only ever taken one AD for 3 months 20 or so years ago and it was one of the older ones, but I gather that the newer SSRIs have fewer side effects and each one affects each person differently and it can be a case of trying one or several before you find the right one, but sertraline sounds like a good place to start. x
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I have been on sertraline for a while, it’s working wonders for me. Anxiety has always been a bit of an issue for me and the menopause made it unbearable….It made it go away, it makes me feel like a “normal” person who can deal with life’s ups and downs without worrying myself sick :)
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Hello ladies.
I haven't used Sertraline but I do take another AD called Venlafaxine ( also known as Effexor). I was also prescribed this at the same time as I started HRT so it is difficult to work out how it's effects differed from the HRT. In my case I was told that Venlafaxine is especially good at reducing night sweats so I take it at night. As time went on I was moved to a slow release version so I assume time of day doesn't really matter.
By reading your comments ladies I might ask if I can change to Sertraline as anxiety is still a problem for me, despite HRT.
Many thanks ladies and take care everyone.
K.
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Thank you for all the lovely comments, I’m having a particularly bad day today, very anxious and tearful, my patient lovely husband has gone away to work for a few weeks so I am feeling more emotional than normal. I have decide to take the tablets. I have a life to live which I want without all this anxiety xx
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Thank you for all the lovely comments, I’m having a particularly bad day today, very anxious and tearful, my patient lovely husband has gone away to work for a few weeks so I am feeling more emotional than normal. I have decide to take the tablets. I have a life to live which I want without all this anxiety xx
I am pleased you are going to take them. The sooner you take them the sooner they will help.
It is tough your husband being away but please post as much as you wish to on here. We are all here for you.🤗
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Thank you so much x
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Thank you so much x
You are very welcome.
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Thank you for all the lovely comments, I’m having a particularly bad day today, very anxious and tearful :foryou:, my patient lovely husband has gone away to work for a few weeks so I am feeling more emotional than normal. I have decide to take the tablets. I have a life to live which I want without all this anxiety xx
I remember the awful anxious feelings in the pit of my stomach, the palpitations and the scary panic attacks. I just don’t get them now, Annie. I know everyone is different but starting sertraline and HRT was a frightening but necessary step for me - my quality of life had gradually got worse (kind of crept up on me) until I couldn’t wait to get started!
A gentle suggestion would be to see this as a positive step, try not to think about side effects that most likely will not happen to you, take heart in the fact that it is not an addictive substance and remember that we ladies are here (and we can genuinely speak from experience) :foryou:
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Thank you songbird, I hardly recognise myself these days, I have come from being a fun loving, try anything once, live every day to the full person, to one that just worries and cries. I feel for my poor family, I’m fed up of me, I can imagine how they are feeling. On the positives I took my first tab this morning and have been on HRT for a few months, hopefully the combination will kick in soon and I feel better…… it’s costing me an absolute fortune on Tissues at the moment 😟
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It's 'the change', does what it says on the tin. With bells on >:(
Man sized 'kleenex' are the best ;-)
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Help and advice required, been on setraline for 10 days now, Wow!! The last few days I have done nothing but cry ! I understand that my body is adjusting, but I never expected to be this emotional, I’m more tearful and anxious now than I was before taking. Should I gradually stop taking or continue?
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I nearly stopped taking sertraline during the first few weeks of taking it but, for me, it was the side effect of diarrhoea. I contacted the GP. He said it would eventually settle. It did. After 7 weeks 🙄. I have suffered no further problems.
I would suggest having a look at the NHS website, which gives full information on Sertraline. It suggests contacting your GP if any side effect doesn't settle after "a few weeks". I find our local pharmacist is a good person to ask.
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Thank you early bird for your response, I had looked the website, it does say that often symptoms get worse before they get better. I’ve just never felt so low for such a long time. Guess I was hoping that my mood would be lightening by now
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Annie, how are you doing now that’s it’s been a few weeks on the medication?
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I am Actually starting to feel a bit brighter and more positive. had a chat with my GP last week about how much more down I was since I started taking Stetraline.
He gave me 3 Choices, stop taking, Continue to take or we could try something else.
At the time I decide to Stop . After some thought I decide to keep going for another few weeks. Glad I did, I am starting to feel more like my old self.
thank you so much for asking, your kindness is very much appreciated :)
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Annie, am.sure you post here will help others who maybe feeling the same way, whether to continue on a treatment of not.
I remember it took maybe a couple of months when I was on sertraline to feel an improvement. I know we all differ of course.
It's good to hear that you are feeling more supported with the AD, and you are a bit more you again.
I wish you well. X
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Hi Annie, I've just read through this thread to catch up, and I am glad you are starting to see some positives, it must be awful feeling that low that you are crying all the time.
I started citalopram last August, same type of antidepressant, and was told I needed to give it at least six weeks before deciding whether to continue or even to change dose. I had early side effects too, worsening anxiety, upset tummy, dry mouth, but they eventually went away and the citalopram has definitely helped level things out. I think it does take that long for your body to fully adjust to changes in levels, and don't forget you'll have hormonal stuff going on in the background as well.
If side effects become bothersome, other things you can try are changing time of day you take them, making sure you take with food. Oh and check the small print, some say you should avoid grapefruit as it can increase the amount in your blood making side effects worse.
I've got friends on sertraline, one of whom had to go up to 100mg to feel back to herself, but she did eventually get there. She takes her sertraline at night which is not what they usually advise but means she sleeps through the side effects
I hope you comtinue to improve anyway and that the bad days become less and good days become more xx
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I'm so glad you persevered and are now starting to feel the benefit. :tulips:
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Annie, I am so glad to hear you are feeling better. This gives me hope! I am 6 days in on Sertraline and feel it is helping some. So glad to hear it is helping you and other AD's are helping others. I feel if I could just get a good nights sleep then I would feel better overall. I still wake with some panic during the night which is scary. I asked by GP for something to help me rest and he declined to prescribe anything. :-\ So I am trying to hang on until then. Menopause anxiety is horrible! :'(
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So lovely to read such kind supportive comments, as I said I am starting to feel better, I know I’m not out of the woods yet as I am still anxious and tearful (mainly due to an on going health issue that my local hospital have no idea how to treat! fortunately have Private medical care and seeing a specialist in a few weeks)
However I feel that if I wasn’t taking the AD, I might be even more upset. My side effect of Setraline were definitely getting a lot worse before I started to feel better, also had a upset stomach for a few days. I still don’t have much of an appetite, but trying to eat healthy.
My family and friends are very supportive and understanding, however unless you have ever felt this down, you never really understand how awful someone feels. I wish all you lovely kind ladies all the best, please keep posting your journey, we will all get through this with the love and support we share. Xx
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Hi
Did anyone taking sertraline experience the symptom of frequent urination initially and, if so, did it settle?
Thanks
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I had this with citalopram when I started, first five or six hours after taking it I'd wee all the time plus have a very dry mouth. Definitely eased off, don't notice it now.
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My son has taken sertraline for years. He had depression then bad anxiety attacks and was on the verge of losing his job. He also had CBT. It changed his life, he gradually got confidence and learned how to manage his anxiety. Hes 37 now, still gets anxiety but copes and has been promoted to a senior job and has his own house and dating a doctor. I'm proud of how he's developed. Sometimes medication is the answer to gettinga grip on life. Might not be long term and your doctor will suoervise it.
I have just been prescribed Sertraline, to help with my low mood and extremely anxiety, I am a bit concerned about using AD as I never have! I worry that I may become addicted and also the side effects. Has anyone used Sertraline for low mood and anxiety? Thank you
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Hi all
Just found this old thread. I've been given Sertraline today to try after my anxiety has gotten awful. i've always been anxious but its always been manageable and just part of me. But hormones have definately unsettled it. I was on HRT but it really wasn't doing anything - on the progesterone weeks it was making it worse. Spoke to the docs today and she feels that because the anxiety is a longer standing issue, its maybe the right time to try to treat that with drugs for that, instead of different HRT. So i've picked up my prescription, had a good cry and i'll start tommorow. Any updates from anyone?
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Hi, Its now been 4 months since I started on Sertraline, I definitely felt worse before I felt better, to the point where I almost stopped taking it. Fast forward a couple of months , I am feeling so much better, I still have the occasional dark day but they are certainly not so dark or often, my appetite has return and my zest for life and living. Give it time, you will get there, their will be dark times but please ride the storm its worth it. any questions please feel free to ask me :)
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Thank you Annie. Slightly dreading in case I feel worse but I have to try something.
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Tambourine queen,
Although I am on a different AD I agree Irish take a while to feel the full benefit. The one I am I now only took a couple of weeks and I feel so much better on it. I also needed to up my patches so the combo seems to be better for me. So far so good, am better than I have felt in months, not 100% but this will do.
What I would say ( to anyone struggling) is always post on here when you need to. There are many of us who have had seriously difficult days with moods and I have been helped hugely with the support freely given when I have had dark days.
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I've just been prescribed sertraline too......
Too scared to take ::).....
I get so anxious about meds as I react sooo badly to them...the thing that might help me....I reject!
I've just got too much post trauma experience from meds over the years and know my body HATES them.....
I'm so fragile that more illness would tip me over....
But....to possibly get help.....I need to cope with the meds anxiety and being made more ill (which I will be)
I know you'll say it's benefits v risk...and to go for it.
Easier said
I despair at myself.
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I've just been prescribed sertraline too......
Too scared to take ::).....
I get so anxious about meds as I react sooo badly to them...the thing that might help me....I reject!
I've just got too much post trauma experience from meds over the years and know my body HATES them.....
I'm so fragile that more illness would tip me over....
But....to possibly get help.....I need to cope with the meds anxiety and being made more ill (which I will be)
I know you'll say it's benefits v risk...and to go for it.
Easier said
I despair at myself.
As you have reacted so severely to medication, I can understand why trying a new one makes you feel anxious. I do not know if this is of any help but perhaps a tablet cutter would be an idea. You could try cutting a tiny bit of the pill and see how that goes. That may be too stressful though so I can understand if that sounds overwhelming.
Would it be possible to try therapy? I was thinking that it could help you with the anxiety and all you are going through. I know you have such a lot on and it must be so hard to cope with it all.
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He!lo Dorothy,
Flossie has a good point there. I was prescribed 7.5 my of my particular AD. It comes in a 15mg tablet, which has an indented line to cut it in half easily.
I was prescribed this to be taken on the lead to my period only.
On the first night I took the 7.5 but found it too strong for me ( very sleepy all day) so I cut that half in half again. I now take approx 3.25 of a tablet ( cut with a strong knife). It has benefited me so much that I now take that tiny dose every night of the month.
I feel so much better mood wise, and a great benefit is it has vastly improved my sleep. I do feel a bit sleepy first thing but to be fair I was always dreadful any morning. All better once up and about after breakfast.
So the tiny dose seems to be ok for me.
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I have just been prescribed Sertraline, to help with my low mood and extremely anxiety, I am a bit concerned about using AD as I never have! I worry that I may become addicted and also the side effects. Has anyone used Sertraline for low mood and anxiety? Thank you
My son has been taking it for years. He had depression then really bad anxiety attacks, almost lost his job. It was awful, the medication plus CBT rescued him and he turned his life round. It's not cured it, it controls it though
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First pill taken! Here we go.
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I really hope you feel the benefits soon, you have got this, ride the storm better days are ahead :)
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Thank you!
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I've just been prescribed sertraline too......
Too scared to take ::).....
I get so anxious about meds as I react sooo badly to them...the thing that might help me....I reject!
I've just got too much post trauma experience from meds over the years and know my body HATES them.....
I'm so fragile that more illness would tip me over....
But....to possibly get help.....I need to cope with the meds anxiety and being made more ill (which I will be)
I know you'll say it's benefits v risk...and to go for it.
Easier said
I despair at myself.
As you have reacted so severely to medication, I can understand why trying a new one makes you feel anxious. I do not know if this is of any help but perhaps a tablet cutter would be an idea. You could try cutting a tiny bit of the pill and see how that goes. That may be too stressful though so I can understand if that sounds overwhelming.
Would it be possible to try therapy? I was thinking that it could help you with the anxiety and all you are going through. I know you have such a lot on and it must be so hard to cope with it all.
Thank you for your support and suggestions. I appreciate it so much
I'd love to try therapy however, a few issues.
1. Due to having M.E/CFS my energies are extremely limited. I can sometimes only talk for about 5 minutes before I'm wiped out physically and mentally.
2. It would have to be private. I've tried the NHS route over the years for counselling etc. Never again.
3. Cost of private. I can manage that if below 50 quid a go.
4. The holy grail of finding the RIGHT therapist. I did have the right one a few years ago. She changed my life. But moved abroad and no longer practicing :(
I've such little energy I cannot research...no idea the type of councillor/therapist I'd need? Probably an anxiety, grief, trauma one to help me through my new reality of hell.....and one that did phone appointments. I'm bedridden.
5. I cannot be consistent with appointments as my illness is very unpredictable and usually too ill to chat.
But....my issue is....not inly am I fighting perimenopause...I'm fighting an already debilitating illness on top which makes coping with peri 100 x harder and all the lifestyle things i need to do to help me....I cannot do due to my M E. .......STUCK :'( :'(
I'd love to have a trained therapist to help me through this.........but.
If anyone knows someone willing to be a bit flexible?......lol
Xxxxx
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I've just been prescribed sertraline too......
Too scared to take ::).....
I get so anxious about meds as I react sooo badly to them...the thing that might help me....I reject!
I've just got too much post trauma experience from meds over the years and know my body HATES them.....
I'm so fragile that more illness would tip me over....
But....to possibly get help.....I need to cope with the meds anxiety and being made more ill (which I will be)
I know you'll say it's benefits v risk...and to go for it.
Easier said
I despair at myself.
As you have reacted so severely to medication, I can understand why trying a new one makes you feel anxious. I do not know if this is of any help but perhaps a tablet cutter would be an idea. You could try cutting a tiny bit of the pill and see how that goes. That may be too stressful though so I can understand if that sounds overwhelming.
Would it be possible to try therapy? I was thinking that it could help you with the anxiety and all you are going through. I know you have such a lot on and it must be so hard to cope with it all.
Thank you for your support and suggestions. I appreciate it so much
I'd love to try therapy however, a few issues.
1. Due to having M.E/CFS my energies are extremely limited. I can sometimes only talk for about 5 minutes before I'm wiped out physically and mentally.
2. It would have to be private. I've tried the NHS route over the years for counselling etc. Never again.
3. Cost of private. I can manage that if below 50 quid a go.
4. The holy grail of finding the RIGHT therapist. I did have the right one a few years ago. She changed my life. But moved abroad and no longer practicing :(
I've such little energy I cannot research...no idea the type of councillor/therapist I'd need? Probably an anxiety, grief, trauma one to help me through my new reality of hell.....and one that did phone appointments. I'm bedridden.
5. I cannot be consistent with appointments as my illness is very unpredictable and usually too ill to chat.
But....my issue is....not inly am I fighting perimenopause...I'm fighting an already debilitating illness on top which makes coping with peri 100 x harder and all the lifestyle things i need to do to help me....I cannot do due to my M E. .......STUCK :'( :'(
I'd love to have a trained therapist to help me through this.........but.
If anyone knows someone willing to be a bit flexible?......lol
Xxxxx
This does make it more difficult but I feel a good therapist would be flexible and understanding. I know how unpredictable M.E/CFS is and there will be times you do not feel up to having the session. I wonder if the M.E/CFS association would have advice on choosing a therapist.
Private therapy does sound like the better option for you. I know some therapists offer sessions at a reduced rate. Maybe it would be possible to have a shorter therapy session which would cut costs and be less taxing for you.
Such a shame the therapist you had is no longer practising. I know how difficult it is to find the right one. I have had two brilliant therapists in my life so there will be another one that can support you.
On a day you are feeling a little less tired maybe you could make a thread on here to see if others have any suggestions for you. I know there are other members with M.E/CFS.
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Hello ladies. I have been on sertraline for about 9 weeks. I can say that it has definitely helped with low mood and anxiety however, I expected to feel a lot better than I’m feeling now. Please can you share your positive experiences of sertraline and how long it took to feel like your old self, particularly around racing thoughts. Many thanks in advance.
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Hi
I first started taking Sertraline in 2016 when my peri menopausal depression & anxiety got so bad that I was signed off work and under the Crisis Team. I had also just recently started HRT. The very first day I took Sertraline I felt like a tiny window had been opened in my brain allowing a flicker of light in. Over the next 3 weeks I lived in my own little Zen bubble. Certainly not happy, just very still and distant inside. I could almost feel my brain recalibrating itself. Obviously I was also taking HRT alongside which will have helped.
At the time I was under Prof John Studd and he reassured me that for some women who are so severely progesterone intolerant (like me) they need both HRT *and* ADs.
Over the next couple of months I had lots of good days but also still lots of bad days. It wasn't a smooth progression upwards at all. But gradually there were more and more and more good days with just an occasional nasty dip.
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Morning all
Felt quite good yesterday but then got unexpectedly triggered by something that just went round in my brain all night with a bit of feeling sick. Got some sleep but not a lot.
Good to hear folks say they feel better after some time has passed.
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Interested to read this post. I’ve been signed off work with depression/anxiety /menopause and also recovering from low iron (ferritin went down to 14 in May).
I started 50mg sertraline on Friday and feeling so terrible with side effects I had to reduce to 25mg the last couple of days. Dr wants me up to 100mg dose eventually. Side effects are extreme sleepiness, wooziness, weakness and depression.
Need to hear encouraging accounts of side effects passing.
They upped my HRT patch this week too. Please tell me these side effects will pass and that the benefits will kick in..,,🙏🏼
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I've just been prescribed sertraline too......
Too scared to take ::).....
I get so anxious about meds as I react sooo badly to them...the thing that might help me....I reject!
I've just got too much post trauma experience from meds over the years and know my body HATES them.....
I'm so fragile that more illness would tip me over....
But....to possibly get help.....I need to cope with the meds anxiety and being made more ill (which I will be)
I know you'll say it's benefits v risk...and to go for it.
Easier said
I despair at myself.
As you have reacted so severely to medication, I can understand why trying a new one makes you feel anxious. I do not know if this is of any help but perhaps a tablet cutter would be an idea. You could try cutting a tiny bit of the pill and see how that goes. That may be too stressful though so I can understand if that sounds overwhelming.
Would it be possible to try therapy? I was thinking that it could help you with the anxiety and all you are going through. I know you have such a lot on and it must be so hard to cope with it all.
Thank you for your support and suggestions. I appreciate it so much
I'd love to try therapy however, a few issues.
1. Due to having M.E/CFS my energies are extremely limited. I can sometimes only talk for about 5 minutes before I'm wiped out physically and mentally.
2. It would have to be private. I've tried the NHS route over the years for counselling etc. Never again.
3. Cost of private. I can manage that if below 50 quid a go.
4. The holy grail of finding the RIGHT therapist. I did have the right one a few years ago. She changed my life. But moved abroad and no longer practicing :(
I've such little energy I cannot research...no idea the type of councillor/therapist I'd need? Probably an anxiety, grief, trauma one to help me through my new reality of hell.....and one that did phone appointments. I'm bedridden.
5. I cannot be consistent with appointments as my illness is very unpredictable and usually too ill to chat.
But....my issue is....not inly am I fighting perimenopause...I'm fighting an already debilitating illness on top which makes coping with peri 100 x harder and all the lifestyle things i need to do to help me....I cannot do due to my M E. .......STUCK :'( :'(
I'd love to have a trained therapist to help me through this.........but.
If anyone knows someone willing to be a bit flexible?......lol
Xxxxx
I also have ME though not as severe as you. The fatigue is very debilitating and I'm not sure how menopause has affected it. I have been involved in mental health support services and am an Orange Button holder (specific to my area) so I have some information about support but your doctors surgery should be able to direct you to support by phone initially. You can also check on line. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem/where-to-start/. There should be support through the service for chronic fatigue syndrome if there's one in your area. Remember that the Samaritans are also a source of help in finding appropriate services. I appreciate how hard it is with such severe fatigue. Try to find someone who will do it for you
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Day 5- I’m going ok. I can feel the drugs shifting things a bit and I’ve had one counselling session to help. But I feel a bit seedy on them during the day- mini bit sick and mini bit sore head. But the fucking insomnia is the worst!!! Who invents a drug to help anxious brains but makes it have the potential to cause bloody insomnia???!!?!?!! It’s ridiculous. It’s started to wear off a bit but if I don’t get to sleep before DH then I am shot as he’s quite snorey! Never usually a problem. So I took myself off to the spare room the other night which I felt bad about but I did actually get about 3 hours which was the most since Tuesday!!! Last night I got back up for half an hour to reset and I did manage to drift off but it took ages with me thinking ‘oh I’m going to fall asleep!’ at the wrong moment!!!!! And mr snores a lot!!!! I just hope this fucks off quickly!
Sorry for the swears!!!
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I couldn't manage without earplugs! I use Ohropax Mini Soft as a lot of them are too big and hurt my ears. There is a knack to getting them in, you use one hand to pull on your outer upper ear to straighten the canal, rub the plug between your fingers to shrink and soften, place in ear and voilá!!! Peace descends. I am a side sleeper and find I only need one in the ear not covered by the pillow.
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Hello all,
I was thinking of requesting sertraline for anxiety. It has ramped up a lot since fibroid pain kicked in, low oestrogen again, daughter off to uni next week and generally “ life stuff”.
Not sure if I can face any side effects though.. still have to work.
Any thoughts? :o
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Hi again Nas
I was on sertraline before I started hrt, and it did help anxiety. I stopped it for about a year before I knew I needed an AD to work alongside the hrt.
I did post on here for advice As I didn't want my libido to sink down any lower. someone ( Thanks whoever it was) said she had been on Mirtazapine, as it was not thought not to affect libido, my gp agreed.
I found it very strong for me, was prescribed half a tablet to be used in the run up to period to help moods, but I needed up on a 1/4 tablet each night of the month as It helped so much. Feel It hard to wake up but that goes quickly for me.
It hasn't affected my libido any more and benefit as well as helping anxiety and moods, is that for me, it helps me sleep too. I take it about an hour before sleep. May be worth considering?
Xx
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Thanks buddy,
Yes I may request it and try a low dose to begin with. I don’t want to be taking it long term, just until I get back on an even keel again.
X
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Absolutely no sleep last night! Zzzzzzzzzzz
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I really hope this improves for you. X
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Thank you. Managed to grab a few hours last night. Spoke to docs today and got some anti histamines to try to help. Feel a bit less seedy today. Not sure if anxiety is feeling any change or not- lack of sleep really not helping.
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Keep going. You're doing great. Keep us posted x
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Day 10. I have felt a bit more level the last couple of days and sleep was improving -without anti histimines- but last night it was all to pot again! I’m feeling a bit on edge again today but I think the sleep situation isn’t helping. Having counselling too so trying to just put into practise my CBT and I think the sertraline is helping me do that. I think I’ll try an antihistamine tonight.
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Well done on persevering, beginning a new medication, or indeed changing the dose can lead to nasty side affects until the body gets used to it. In some ways of feels like a test of nerves- get over the creator the him and hopefully all will settle. You have seen some improvements which is great, you will beginners and we are with you.
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Again, I don't tale sertraline but my sin does, granted no menopause, but it did in fact take some messing around to get dose right and get used to it too but he was so desperate that he persevered and along with CBT he got some life back. He gets withdrawal effects if he forgets a dose.
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Hey. Sleep starting to improve again without anti histamines. I feel some improvement but still don’t feel totally myself. But it’s defo better than where I was! Daytime side effects pretty much worn off now- maybe still a wee bit sweaty and tiny bit headachy at times. This is day 12.
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Thanks for updating. We'll done persevering.
I was told it can take a few weeks to see the full benefit so hang on. X
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Hi Tambourine Queen, Our symptoms are very similar, except I am 4 months ahead of you ! Keep going better days are ahead, you have got this girl :)
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Sleep all to pot again and anxiety back on the rise but I think hormones are playing a part this last couple of days so trying to just know that logically!
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Just wanted to update. Day 41. What a difference this drug has made to me! I feel so much like my old self again.
Sleep a bit affected still- I get to sleep fine but wake up a bit through the night- but I can always get back to sleep.it’s just a bit annoying. But it’s all good. I also can still cry at movies- lol!
I have very very few actual perimeno symptoms now I’m off HRT- tiny bit of cramping mid month and pre period which I didn’t have as a youngster and a tiny bit of brain fog. This proves my point that HRT was too soon for me and causing me problems. I’m open to going back on it in the future. I’ve also been having therapy and the combination has worked a dream. Just wanted to update in case anyone is being offered this. The first two weeks- ugh. But after that-totally worth it!
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Well done U :medal: :great:
It can seem like a long haul finding out what suits/not. Little steps!
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:hapij: so nice to hear some good news!
So pleased for you and thank you for the update.
D xx
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I started this thread back in May when I was in a very dark place. Up until a a week ago I was doing great, however the last few days I have started to feel particularly low. I always struggle in the Winter months ( lots of bad memories, family losses and the stresses of Christmas). I need to be kept busy and stimulated, or I end up sitting worrying about my life. I have started a course on mental health illness, both to keep my brain activated but also to hopefully extend the small knowledge I have to help myself personally or others.
I live alone a lot as my Husband works away. As I said I have started to feel down again, I am absolutely terrified that I end up back to the place I was almost 6 months ago.
Was wondering if anyone else struggles in winter and what they do to help, I am thinking of taking Multi vitamins (especially VitD) . Any help is REALLY appreciated
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Hello Annie,
I am in a bit of a similar position to you. My moods have been truly shocking and like you, very dark. With your doubts my mental health has been my very worse peri symptom. I thought I had it all stabilised with a high oestrogen patch and a low dose AD, and the last couple of months have been pretty good. But the last three days I feel I am very low again mood wise. So I totally get the fear we are sliding back down.
My hope is that it is another blip, a temporary set back, maybe my hormones are fluctuating again ( despite not my pms week) I also have underlying cortisol/thyroid stuff being investigated.
My big advice is to do as you have done today. Always post on here when you need to. Someone will always be there who understands how you feel. I have definitely been helped back up by some amazing women on here.
I am not the best to advise on Vitamins, hope someone else can step in.
I thinks it's a fabulous way of helping yourself and potentially others by learning a mental health course. And yes, keeping your self occupied before the thoughts to haywire. When I was in the very severe moods I stayed close to my husband as I was a bit scared, I realise you are often on your own, so I urge you to reach out here, or indeed know there are places to call if you feel you are in a crisis.
Keep busy, physically and mentally, keep up with your meds, and please be assured people do understand and care x
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I started this thread back in May when I was in a very dark place. Up until a a week ago I was doing great, however the last few days I have started to feel particularly low. I always struggle in the Winter months ( lots of bad memories, family losses and the stresses of Christmas). I need to be kept busy and stimulated, or I end up sitting worrying about my life. I have started a course on mental health illness, both to keep my brain activated but also to hopefully extend the small knowledge I have to help myself personally or others.
I live alone a lot as my Husband works away. As I said I have started to feel down again, I am absolutely terrified that I end up back to the place I was almost 6 months ago.
Was wondering if anyone else struggles in winter and what they do to help, I am thinking of taking Multi vitamins (especially VitD) . Any help is REALLY appreciated
I think taking a high strength vitamin d would be great. I use a spray one (under the tongue) by BetterYou which is D3 and K2 (K2 being a co factor of D3, so good for absorption). That gives you 3000iu of D3, I'd say then check levels after Christmas. Bear in mind GP will tell you levels are normal even at low end of range and that is unlikely to be optimum level for you.
Have you thought about getting a light box to use during winter months, that can also be really helpful? I have one which slowing mimics the sun rising. It also makes it easier to get up on darker mornings! Also suggest making sure you get out in daylight in the morning.
I have the same as you, although mine involves anxiety as well. I used to love autumn but it's the time of year when my work contracts always dip for a bit, plus was when my mum first started her declining, and is now a time when I dread as I know how I'll feel. So big hugs to you, it is so bloody hard I know xx
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The other thing re supplements is that there are some things you cannot take when on anti depressants. For example, 5-HTP which is good for depression, is not allowed with any ssri (which sertraline is) as it can cause serotonin syndrome. It's a shame really as it does work well, I used it for many years before I needed to go on an anti depressant for my anxiety. So please make sure you check that any supplements are okay with the sertraline too. Some of the combined mood lifting ones will either have 5-htp or St John's Wort, neither of which would be safe for you to take so please be careful x
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HI Annie
Sorry that i've just seen this. I hope you're ok! I don't have this issue in Autumn/Winter but I totally sympathise with this feeling. Do you need to tweak your dose of Setraline? I have been having some therapy along with starting the Setraline and i had a particular kind called EMDR therapy. It is used for traumatic memories or thoughts and feelings that have got stuck and are affecting your behaviour and how you feel. I don't totally know how it works but it has really shifted some things for me that were not what i would consider traumatic in the scale of trauma, but had obviously had an affect on me at the time. I have had 6 sessions altogether and I am sure that has helped. Its good to try to get to the bottom of anything that keeps dragging you back. I was coming to things that happened years ago but still had a hold over me. And also I think looking for things that interest you to go and do - for me its history talks, gigs, dinner with friends, family days out - trying to build your life with things that you really value. I don't know about supplements as i have stopped everything for now till i get used to the Setraline but i do believe without the therapy i wouldn't feel as well as i do now.
I really hope you're ok! We are here for you anytime!
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Thank you ladies for the kind comments and Suggestions.
I am certainly not in the dark place that I was, I got really anxious last week as I was feeling very lonely and vulnerable, I got really worried that I was slipping back to that dark place that I hope never to return too.
I have been seeing a therapist, which I have found very helpful, has made me do some really deep thinking into what triggers my anxieties.
I have started going for a walk at lunch time to get some sunlight and trying to keep my self busy and not over think EVERYTHING
As I said previously winter (particularly Christmas) is a very tough time for me.
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Hi Anxiety Annie
Sorry to hear about your ongoing symptoms. I haven't read this whole thread though I had a quick look at your profile and your previous posts.
As this is a menopause forum when I see posts like this I am always curious as to whether women are taking HRT, or where they are in menopause.
I see from one of your posts in May I think, that you started a 25 mcg patch and Utrogestan but still experienced problems - and unfortunately did not get the replies you were probably seeking.
It would definitely have been advised to 1) increase the patch dose and see how you felt 2) consider whether the continuous progesterone could be causing some of your lingering symptoms especially negative ones. It has a sedative and sometimes depressive effect, sometimes with head fog and headaches, especially when taken all the time.
I would have said try to optimise the HRT before considering an AD - because if your symptoms are due to the hormonal changes of menopause and are farily new to you with no obvious other life reason, then NICE Guidelines do say that HRT is the first line of treatment. Of course if the symptoms do not resolve after much tweaking then of course an AD should be considered.
Not sure if tweaking of your HRT has already been suggested in the thread but do give this some thought. Even if you do have a tendency to some of these negative thoughts, the hormonal effects of menopause can mean that we are less able to overcome them, and can make us less resilient.
Great idea to get some sunshine and a walk! Hope you generally feel better soon, despite the dark evenings.
All the best
Hurdity x
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Looking for some support and found this old post. I started taking sertraline 2 weeks ago 25mg for 1 week and 50 mg now. I feel shocking, like internal tremors ans jitters. How long did it take you to start feeling the benefits? Will there likely be an another increase in dose?
I am on hrt oestrogel and mirena coil for perimeno.
Thanks XX
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Hi Christine
I’m going to ask for sertraline too, mainly for anxiety and jitters. Scared of the sife effects but they say often you feel worse before feeling better. Maybe dial down to 25mg again?
Xx
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Hi Christine,
Sorry to hear you're going through a hard time.
Did you feel ok on the 25mg? My daughter started Sertraline a couple of years ago, she stayed on 25mg for at least 2 weeks as she initially struggled with nausea. She gradually went to 50mg.
Just letting you know - she did settle on Sertraline and it has been a game changer for her.
Take care. X
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Hi Christine
So i went straight onto 50 mg and as you can see if you read back, i felt crap for about two weeks! Wired, internal jitters, not sleeping, rushes of adrenaline. And then after 2 weeks its just kind of calmed down. I've been on them now since September, still on 50mg and i feel totally fine. Sleep can still be a bit off but I think thats the peri rather than the drugs. I do get mad vivid dreams though. But they have totally taken the edge off all the anxiety i was feeling. i also did a bit of therapy to back things up. I am no longer on HRT as my doctor and i felt that it was making my anxiety worse as i was possibly still a bit too early to have it in terms of my own hormones.
I hope you start to just even out soon. It is so weird that there has to be this awful start to it but then its ok??? I would let it calm down and see if you feel better before you potential try something else. I have hope for you that it will be better soon.
Take good care and post anytime.
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Thanks for the kind words. It definitely gets worse, I feel like I have internal shakes and tearful this morning, but less nauseous. I know I need to ride it out to hopefully feel the benefits.
The last couple of days I've felt very sleepy to the point where I've struggled to get out of bed.
This is my 1st ever episode of severe anxiety brought on by perimenopause its making me feel so low and now off work.
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Hey Christine
How are you doing now?
Xx
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Hey Christine
How are you doing now?
Xx
Thanks for the check in. Today the nausea has settled and I actually feel like eating. My sleep is all over the place I was still awake at 4am and then just kept wanting nap during the day. I've been taking it in the evening but wondering if morning would be better. Xx
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I take mine in the morning. Might be worth a try. My doctor also told me to take a drowsy antihistamine at night when I was struggling to sleep in the early days. 🤷🏻♀️
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Hi
I’m so pleased to have seen this post too, it’s comforting to see other experiences.
I was given Sertraline this week 50mg.
I’m peri menopausal and on HRT, I’ve been on HRT for about a year and a half.
I’m experiencing terrible anger and then awful anxiety, so I’ve been given this medication after talking to the nurse.
I’ve decided to take 12.5mg to introduce it slowly to my body, whilst I know this is a very low dosage I wanted to take things slowly.
This is day 2, and I take it before bed, as I cannot take with my thyroid medication.
One thing I’ve noticed and I accepted this as being normal, but the constant ringing in my ears (tinnitus) is not as loud as normal, it’s still there but definitely not as prominent.
Has anyone else experienced that?
I can’t report anything else at this stage, as I know I’m on a very very low dosage.
I’m also convinced it’s the progesterone that I cannot tolerate. I changed it to taking it vaginally, and it helped for a while but back to feeling anxious.
What other choices have I got with regards progesterone?
I used to have the coil (I think it was called T Nova) and I suffered with terrible mood swings and very heavy periods.
Thanks x
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Good Morning ladies,
I started this thread back in May 2023, I was in a awful place emotionally, struggling to sleep, eat and general thrive as a person, I felt like all the joy had been suck out of me and a huge cloud of doom was permanently hanging over me.
I started on patches, then sertraline was added to my prescription.
The first few weeks were not great at all, some days I felt brighter, then the cloud would return, on a few occasions a full force tornado was circulating above me. One one particular day it was so bad I cried uncontrollably all day !
Fortunately the dark days have passed and have been gone for a few months now. I am still taking Sertraline ( I take it at bed time) and HRT
I really hope it works out for you. I did consider coming off (gradually) as I feel so good. But honestly the thought of returning to that dark place fills me with dread.
Please try and keep going ...... brighter days are ahead :)
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Hi
I’m so pleased to have seen this post too, it’s comforting to see other experiences.
I was given Sertraline this week 50mg.
I’m peri menopausal and on HRT, I’ve been on HRT for about a year and a half.
I’m experiencing terrible anger and then awful anxiety, so I’ve been given this medication after talking to the nurse.
I’ve decided to take 12.5mg to introduce it slowly to my body, whilst I know this is a very low dosage I wanted to take things slowly.
This is day 2, and I take it before bed, as I cannot take with my thyroid medication.
One thing I’ve noticed and I accepted this as being normal, but the constant ringing in my ears (tinnitus) is not as loud as normal, it’s still there but definitely not as prominent.
Has anyone else experienced that?
I can’t report anything else at this stage, as I know I’m on a very very low dosage.
I’m also convinced it’s the progesterone that I cannot tolerate. I changed it to taking it vaginally, and it helped for a while but back to feeling anxious.
What other choices have I got with regards progesterone?
I used to have the coil (I think it was called T Nova) and I suffered with terrible mood swings and very heavy periods.
Thanks x
Hi Peanut
I think it was the Progesterone i couldnt' tolerate either. I had a bad time on the pill in my younger days and i had to go on a tri phasic pill so the hormones didn't send me crazy! Its a shame because i am pro HRT and I hope to try again. but for now it was just making me worse than dealing with the peri symptoms was.