Last night was the first time in a month when I had a full night of sleep. Now I’ve been waking up at 8AM instead of going to bed at 2 PM. Don’t have a lot of people to share with but I’m not sure how to describe how I feel. It’s like the absence of a headache I didn’t know I had. My body feels much lighter and energetic. Hopefully I’ll get back to cooking for myself this week!
I really don’t want to harsh your buzz because I’m really glad all of that happened to you, but antidepressants typically take 2, 4, even 8 weeks to work. Within a week is very unlikely. The reason I’m saying this is that there also could be serious side effects within that timeframe and, even if you’re feeling better now, you need to be hyperaware of them because they include things like suicidal thoughts. Antidepressants can sometimes do the opposite of what is intended. The brain is complicated and it often takes more than one trial before you find the one that works for you. I went through at least 4 different antidepressants until I found one that worked- although I’m type II bipolar, making it more complicated, but my wife, who is not, had the same issues.
Like I said, I’m really happy for you that you got sleep and feel more energetic, but please, please, please pay attention to what your body and mind are telling you more than usual over the next couple of months.
Thank you for your advice, and I appreciate it. In light of your words, it could also be because of the sleep aid I took enabled me to actually sleep peacefully for the first time in about a month. I’ve had it thrice but I’m planning on cutting that one out starting today. Staying cautiously optimistic for the future!
Good luck!
I’ll chime in, because I’m about 3 months on and remember exactly what you’re experiencing. While Squid is probably correct about the meds not working just yet (and the great advice about making sure you check in with yourself), I now believe what I experienced on day one was happiness that I was finally taking care of myself.
I’m doing so much better now, and with CBT and the meds I feel like I’m finally enjoying my life for the first time in years. So enjoy your sleep, you’ve earned it by taking a huge, important step.