Faking it

[thesunwillcomeout]

It use to be easy to fake being happy and suck it up when I had to but now it’s becoming more difficult. I can’t put on a happy face and act okay, it’s exhausting. I use to be fun to be around and now I’m basically a Debbie Downer. I tend to isolate myself now from friends because I don’t want to be the miserable one because that’s who I’ve become. It’s upsetting to also think what they think of me or say about me. Almost a week ago I began taking Sertraline 25MG this is my first time taking any medication for anxiety/depression. I can’t tell if I am feeling any changes other than I have more thoughts of what life would be like if I was no longer in it. I could never do that to my parents. I just want to be genuinely happy. I have so many good things to be happy for but I just can’t and knowing that makes me feel guilty.

Anyway my question is... when should I expect to feel changes taking medications? I know everyone and every medicine is different but just looking for a reference.

Thank you!

[Hidden]

Patience is key with therapy and meds.. I asked my doctor when I was being prescribed fluoxetine and she explained it could take several months before you realize it’s working, even if the medication is starting to do its job in the first month, you might not notice until you see improvements in your day to day.. I would definitely ask your Dr. about your specific case, but it does sound similar( with mine there was also a time period before a “ therapeutic level is reached in the bloodstream”)

[Hidden]

Just thinking of your post and the beginning of it reminds me so much of myself it’s a little weird, but I’m starting to notice that a lot of us used to be so called “ social butterflies “ and slowly regressed to a lonely state.. not a real insightful comment into your situation, but I thought I’d let you know you’re not alone in that aspect either

[TheMeg]

I can't comment about medication but I did want to drop in and say I know how you feel and you're not alone. I have been the same way lately.

[jesca18]

“Putting on a happy face” is what ultimately resulted in me breaking down. I am so glad you are getting help. The medication does take 4-8 weeks. You may feel worse before you get better; in fact, I’ve been told that’s often an indication the medicine is going to work. You may also have to try several medications before you find the right fit for you. Hang in there! Putting in the effort it takes to recover is so worth it!

[DesertLotus]

I find myself feeling the same. I’m not on medication but I went to therapy two years ago and I feel like my life has changed drastically ever since, both positive and negative. The positives as you could imagine are improving my perspectives in life, healing past traumas, learning how to give and accept love. And now two years later, looking back I find myself now in a lonely place. I let a lot of toxic people go out of my life and now realizing I haven’t replaced them with anyone else. I often feel isolated, find it very hard to pretend to be happy in situations that don’t make me happy. I’m very particular about what makes me happy and it’s kind of hard to do anything less.

Give your medicine time, don’t feel like you have to force a happy face. There are soo many other emotions that you can feel, and that’s okay. I love to recognize and acknowledge how I feel and accept it. It helps me identify if I want to be in that situation/position again. Know what I mean?

[at123]

I so admire your courage to share your struggle. I completely understand what you’re going through; I have been on Sertraline for years, and it took time to find the right dosage. Just remember that it may take some time, but I encourage you to stick with it.

I can tell that you have a caring heart, especially if you’re worried about how they’re impacted. Is there someone you would consider sharing your feelings with? Based on my experience, it’s very important to make an effort to keep yourself engaged with others, especially when you’re adjusting to new medication. And they can’t support you if they don’t know how you’re feeling.

Please know that you are not alone, and your life is extremely valuable. Praying for you, friend. Hang in there!