Anxiety and anhedonia

[Libuse]

I have had depression for the last two months. Along with it comes extreme anxiety. I have been on Cipralex for the last three weeks, feel little better, but extremely anxious, mostly in the mornings. that is the worst time. I also noticed that I have lost pleasure in doing small things that I used to love, reading, gardening, camping, nothing seems to appeal to me anymore. I hope this is just the symptoms of depression and I will find my joys again with the treatment. I used to love to travel, now I just don't feel a thing! Has anybody had similar experience?

[galluer]

Placebo effect could be at work. If placebo works, why take in the side-effects of SSRIs ?

[Emma_08]

I think anhedonia is one of the hallmarks of clinical depression.  Are you going to therapy?  A combination of medication and psychotherapy is a great way to relieve your depression.  It is really hard work, but it will pay off in the end.  Once the meds start kicking in (could take a month or more..) I think you will start feeling better (or start feeling for that matter!!) and the small things will be joyful again.  I have been depressed for 4+ years, but had no success with counseling alone.  Now I am taking Effexor and things seem to be getting better...slowly, but surely.  I am actually taking initiative to do things and I get some enjoyment out of life.  Also, if your medication doesn't seem to be doing anything, talk with your doctor.  Medications work differently for everyone and sometimes it takes awhile to find out what works best for you.
Good luck and best wishes,
Em