I'm new here

Just begun a new bout of depression and anxiety, on Sertraline 50mg. I feel pretty debilitated at present, tearful and shaking, hands ,arms, back, stomach and chest burning, with adrenaline I think. Any tips?

[Hidden]

Hello and welcome

You mention you have only been on this medication for a few days, The main problem with this it takes upwards of five weeks before any side affects calm down. Although I understand your Anxiety, Trying to relax may help you calm down. Mindfulness Relaxation Technique should help you control your Anxiety. You can purchase a book explaining this method on Amazon, costing about £7;00.

You can also try breathing Techniques, they may help, you will find explanations on the web.

Did you explain these shakes to your GP ?

BOB

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for replying. The doc is ringing me on Wed to check how I am, I will have been on them for a week then. Do you know if Sertraline is a good med for stopping depression?Kind regards Penguine

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Medications suit some people more than others, so what suits you may not be beneficial to others, although you need to allow time for the drug to work, as you get used to them.

Try not changing medications regular it may be you will need to start again getting used to a new medication. The number of different medications that do similar things is not infinite so keep on what has been suggested, your GP will keep you on the right track.

It may be there could be an increase of dose for a period of time at five weeks, this is quite normal it seems.

At this time it is early days and your body has not had sufficient time to build up a working dose.

This drug is well tested and many sufferers take it so I suppose it is a good medication with good results

BOB

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thank you

[Worrywort55]

Hi penguine, and welcome. Yes I've been on sertraline. I have experienced burning arms, and back. This happened on other similar medications. It does settle, but I now accept this was due to adrenalin & cortisol. I agree breathing techniques certainly help. You see, the brain is sending you warning signs as it would if there was something you need to run from. Perfectly normal in those situations. Except in this case is can't differentiate between thoughts & real danger. The sertraline in time will allow you to rationalise. In the meantime I recommend breathing in slowly for 7 seconds & out for 11 seconds. Nice passive breath out. If you can, lying down. If not, a comfy chair with your hands gently placed on your legs. A good book I got from Amazon by Catherine Pittman & Elizabeth Karle called Rewire your Anxious Brain really helped me

You are braver than you believe, & stronger than you seem. Thought breds fear, & your brain is so clever it can rewire these patterns if anxiety, taking practise & self love.

[Hidden in reply to Worrywort55]

Thank you, that's a comfort and helpful

[Worrywort55 in reply to Hidden]

You're most welcome. You will have better days & flatter days. Never loose hope. Life can be good.