I've been taking antidepressants for over 30 years. And I went through one serious depression without meds--just exercised a LOT and worked through it on my own. After having done it without meds and realizing I need meds, I am so sorry I struggled so without the help the first time.

With meds, you will still be the same person with the same feelings, just not so blue. It will be possible for you to be happy, which it might not be without meds.

I remember when I got my elderly father's doc to give him a mild dose of Zoloft. He was a different person. He'd smile when something was funny. He'd be serene, not angry, if there were a commotion around him. It was a good thing. He was still Dad; he was just enjoying life more.

You can scare yourself about any med just from reading about adverse effects which are possible. These are generally only true for a small percentage of the population taking them. I'd try the meds and talk to your doc if you feel you have adverse effects. Your doc is probably starting you on a small dose--that's the usual way--so you will probably be just fine.

Susan