Sertraline success story for anxiety

I want to share my experience with Sertraline in the hopes that it will encourage anyone who’s feeling hopeless or discouraged on their own journey. I started Sertraline 50mg about 8 weeks ago to manage anxiety and stress related to university. This wasn’t my first time taking it – I’ve used it before and found it incredibly helpful. But even knowing how well it had worked for me in the past didn’t prepare me for the tough start this time around.

The first 1-4 weeks were really difficult. I experienced every side effect imaginable – pit in my stomach, constant feelings of dread and doom, nausea, and a sense of derealisation that made everything feel unreal. I couldn’t concentrate or focus, and I was crying all the time. On top of that, I couldn’t be alone, had intrusive thoughts, and found myself endlessly overthinking everything. Honestly, there were days when I wasn’t sure if I could keep going.

I spent so much time searching online for support, and I found this forum to be a lifeline. I want you to know, I’ve been where you are, and I promise you, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I know it feels like you’ll never get out of this dark place, but you will.

Here’s the thing: serotonin doesn’t get replenished overnight, and Sertraline works gradually. My doctor told me it could take up to 3 months to see full benefits, and at first, it felt like I was getting nowhere. But over time, those good days started to outweigh the bad. It was slow, but it happened. There are ups and downs, but trust me, you will get there.

If you're struggling, please don't give up. It’s so important to remember that everyone’s experience is different, and sometimes it takes a little longer for the medication to work. There’s no set timeline. Keep faith that this will pass.

During the rough patches, I leaned heavily on my support network. Talk to people you trust, don’t bottle it up. Journaling and writing down my thoughts helped me too. Exercise when you can (even a walk is a huge win), and try to eat as best you can. If eating is hard, I found smoothies helpful for getting some nutrients in. Most importantly, stay hydrated.

I know it’s hard to see it now, but you will come out the other side. Yes, it’s tough, and there will be days you feel like giving up. But you don’t have to do this alone – and you don’t have to give up on the medication either. There are other options, and if Sertraline doesn’t work for you, there are plenty of other medications that have helped so many others.

Please be kind to yourself and give it time. YOU’VE GOT THIS!