Symptoms: Akathisia, brain zaps, sexual dysfunction, cognitive impairment, insomnia, depersonalization/derealization, suicidal ideation, tinnitus, neuropathy, severe anxiety/panic, muscle/joint pain, anhedonia, GI disturbances, bruxism, weakness in limbs, light sensitivity
Life was difficult. My mother was dying, my sister was in care. Home life had been unstable and abusive and I had experienced extensive trauma, although I could only aim to survive as a young mother.
Life was difficult but easier with Effexor for the first six months until side effects started, and excessive sleeping despite doctors raising the dose.
Eventually I tried to withdraw but it made me scream and pain tore through me. Then I got off it eventually. Years later I have tried sertraline and Vyvanse but my health has collapsed. Two years of infections and teeth loss and paraesthesia and skin crawling and hair loss.
The psychiatrists are indifferent or unaware of how severe the side effects and withdrawal complications of psychiatric medication are. That is clear to me now.
I cannot work, exercise, or communicate always.