was on zoloft for anxiety, quit cold turkey, now I think I'm depressed?

[tangle]

I have PCOS with insulin resistance and hypothyroidism (taking metformin and thyroid), in case that's somehow relevant. Last fall, I was prescribed zoloft to treat anxiety related to new workplace responsibilities. After taking it for a few months, I ran out of refills on the prescription this spring, and never scheduled in a follow-up with the psychiatrist. I decided going off the zoloft was just as well -- I had felt very strange the whole time I was on it (I was lazy, unmotivated, and lacked emotion, but felt unstable).

Since then I've been experiencing symptoms of major depression -- crying every day, headaches, body aches, exhaustion -- when I wake up in the morning I feel like I was hit by a train. I can't focus on anything, not even tv; I can't think, and I don't remember what I did yesterday or last week.

Could this still be part of the side effects of going off the zoloft? If I go back to a therapist, will I be prescribed an SSRI again? Being on Zoloft felt like being a zombie -- I literally feel like someone else lived those months of my life. I don't think it was a good choice for me. But I'm a mess right now, I'm not sure why, and I'm sure I don't know what to do about it.

I really need help!

[cj29]

Many people can react to different SSRIs in various manners.  What works for some, does not work for others.  For example, Zoloft works very well for me, while others do not like it. Regardless of which SSRI  you take it is imperative that you go off these medications slowly to minimize withdrawal.  If it is done correctly, it usually is not a big deal whatsover, however, if you quit cold turkey it can cause a myriad of problems.  My suggestion, would be to get back in touch with you doc and explain the situation.  Your depression/anxiety may stem from other issues.  While I am a proponent of using these meds, it is only effective if you combine it with talk therapy...keep us posted!

[Jikan]

Namaste,

Since you stopped taking your medication last spring, it's unlikely that you're experiencing any withdrawal symtoms.

From what you say, however, it does appear as if you are suffering from major depression disorder and should see your mental health provider as soon as possible.

Yes, it's likely he/she will put you on some type of medication, but as cj29 said, using talk therapy(or another type) is useful in minimizing and controlling your symptoms.

Michael((Jikan)

[dreambrother]

yes quitting cold turkey can cause huge problems,i did a monh ago and thn wet into a mild depression and starting having tons of anxiety,i started back on it yesterday.You must tell your doctor to ween y\ou off if you want to get off,you can send your body and mind into shock.please be carefull,God bless