I don't know anybody who has gone through this, I'm hoping someone can share their journey and help me to see what types of things I can expect over time as the Venlafaxine starts to impact me.

Contest below:


I've struggled with motivation and confidence my whole life but I've always been able to "work through" my problems by just putting time into one thing at a time (e.g., getting a promotion at work, losing X weight, going on a vacation, etc.).   I'm finally at a point where that strategy doesn't work.  I have a fulfilling job, wonderful partner, cute dog, family that loves me, and a place to call home.  I can't dump 100% of my effort into one thing that matters to me without hurting the rest.

During the pandemic several of my hobbies became inaccessible.  Since restrictions lifted I tried to immerse myself back in my hobbies and I found no enjoyment.  I tried to find new hobbies and no matter the success or fun, there was no lasting satisfaction or happiness.  

While this was happening, my partner mentioned that I didn't seem like I wanted to be in a relationship anymore.  My boss mentioned that it seemed like I was "mailing it in" at work.  My friends stopped inviting me out because I had bailed so many times.  It felt like my world was crumbling, like I was failing the people around me.

I found a local therapist and they were able to help me put some of my feelings into words.  Increasing over time, it feels like the lows are lower than ever before, and the highs have never felt so empty.  It feels like that anxiety that has always been in the back seat is now in the passenger seat and reaching for the steering wheel. I didn't have the capacity in me to apply any of the exercises I was learning.  I would go home and fall back into the same routine, causing the same negative feedback loops, and feeling the same hopelessness that made me look for help.

At this point I decided to visit my family doctor who has prescribed me Venlafaxine XR and advised me to re-visit therapy in about 4 weeks.  I've read the info sheet from the pharmacy for the medicine, the side effects are a bit daunting but I am willing to do anything to feel better.