Hi guys,

So for almost the past month, my anxiety has randomly increased about tenfold. Since 2018, I’ve struggled with panic attacks (not frequent) and intrusive thoughts. Nonetheless, I was still a very social person and could go about my daily life perfectly fine. 

Now, since January 15th, I can’t leave the house without having panic attacks or derealization episodes. This has turned me into a depressed, anxious mess. I haven’t felt calm or in control since.

I tried to start therapy, but the place I went to had a waiting list of 4-5 months and I don’t think I’m capable of living like this for that long- so I saw my primary care doctor, and she prescribed me Zoloft 25mg and Xanax 0.25mg. 

My mom takes Zoloft for GAD and loves it (she has been on it for a very long time), but I know that medication is trial and error for everyone and I am worried about a few things. One, I’m worried that the meds will make my anxiety worse and I’m not sure if I can mentally handle that right now. Two, I’m worried I won’t feel like myself. And three, I’m worried that my anxiety is actually *that* bad and I’m just convincing myself that it is and I don’t actually need to take medication. 

I’m supposed to take my first dose (12.5mg of Zoloft for a few days, then increase to 25mg) today and I’m very anxious.

Just looking for some success stories or some motivation. Thanks guys, and I hope everyone’s doing well.