(((((((HI!!!! )))))))))))))))

I have taking Effexor XR every morning for the past few years. As a general rule; I think it's o.k. because it's more or less an "upper" anti-depressant, it's suppose to get you up & motivated...... It's a SSRI...suppose to up your serotin uptake in your brain which is what makes it an "upper" anti-depressant.
Personally, I find it helps me "get going" in the morning, but it kinda gives me the "shakes", and I don't like that.

As far as the rest of the anti-depressants!
I got hooked up w/ a Psychiatrist in 1985 & was Dxed as having a severe
"Major Depressive Disorder" A disorder that means my brain has as a chemical imbalance in my brain that caused me to have extreme depressive episodes that usually ended w/ me in the ER and ICU from an OD.

My Doc was a VERY EXCELLENT doc; well-respected in the mnetal health community; he took my case to task & started w/ every single type of anti-depressant starting with A to Z.....as a last resort to keep me alive..I underwent 80+ ECT's

My POINT: I'm back on "A" Elavil (Amytriptylne) at 300 mgs at bedtime. Result: Hey, I'm still here!!!(my brains are a little toasted by I still have a high IQ) Your descriptions are all side effects of anti-depressants; the same things I don't like either IE: weight gain (I have an extreme eating disorder b/c of this); lack of motivation;
not much energy & ugh....constipation and DRY MOUTH (I hate the dry mouth!!!)

If you are not seeing a regular "therapist" (T); I suggest you do. They can help you get motivated again, suggestions to help you deal w/ the side effects of anti-depressants. This is merely a SUGGESTION from a fellow sufferer from depression; I am also a Psych nurse....however, I am NOT a REPLACEMENT for your psychiatrist, therapist and GP.........

Sorry, I babble a lot....but

(((((((your depression comrade DAYZEE))))))))))))))