Is anybody else extremely scared to start an SSRI? I can’t seem to get over the horror stories I’ve read online but my anxiety and OCD is so bad I don’t know what else to do. My biggest fear is them making me suicidal. Sometimes I wish I never had went on google looking for side effects cause it led me to all the horror stories. :/

I used to be scared of SSRI’s until my OCD just got sooo bad that I felt like I needed it for at least a year. I tried Prozac and it really helped me personally. I’m on a high dose too. I was scared of the side effects just like you but it was not as severe as I thought and any side effects that I had only lasted about the first 2 weeks I started it. But keep in mind that everyone is different

I was also terrified of becoming suicidal. I starred a low dose of Zoloft. It was the best decision I ever made. Look into a supplement called Levium as well. I swear by it.

Its a big adjustment but it will help with the anxiety and panic. If nothing else it makes those feelings less intense and more manageable. I went from multiple panic attacks within a few weeks to none and I'm on a fairly low dose of both my meds. It's worth it just to not feel completely unable to function.

Started*

Totally understand where you are coming from. I have been on lexapro, cymbalta, and Prozac and greatly stress the importance of getting on the right medication. Have you ever heard of a GeneSight test? It could help you and your provider find the medications that will metabolize in you well. I did one and got put on Prozac and moved off of Cymbalta. I’ve found it to be very helpful.

I’m on so manny SSRIs (4 to be exact). They all work amazing for me. My ocd has been changed significantly ever since I started taking them. I’ve been on SSRIs for 21 years (I’m 25). Don’t be afraid to try medicine. SSRIs are key to defeating ocd in my opinion. And if you don’t feel comfortable on a med just be open with your psychiatrist. They will understand and try and find the best “recipe” for you 🙂

I can tell you’re really afraid of SSRIs due to your OCD theme. That makes sense and is reasonable. You should talk to your doctor and/or your therapist about this fear! They will be able to help you and guide you more than we might. As with all side effects, if you did notice something was wrong, you should call your doctor straightaway!