Post Antidepressants/ Zoloft

After using for 20 years (100-200mg), in the past 5 months I've tapered off my use of Sertraline (Zoloft).  It was very effective during parts of my life that I'd like to forget.  But they got me through.  At 61 years of age, post-menopausal, retired, and mostly stress free I wished not to take them anymore.  Yes, I had the brain "squeaks" that have since diminished.  However, I had no negative thoughts/deeds and felt I chose the right path in weaning myself off this, what I felt, no-longer-necessary medication.  I may have had minor withdrawal symptoms initially, but I feel these have passed.  I attribute this to the 3+ month long  prescribed weaning period.

I thought I'd be an emotional mess once I was Zoloft-free.  I was scared.  However, as time passed I saw the "true" self emerge.  I felt emotionally stronger, more cerebrally active, creative, requiring less sleep, etc.  I am now experiencing what "drug-free" mental health can accomplish.  I feel the "fog" has lifted and I am whole again.  When I digress, I see myself in a Zoloft "stupor" that prohibited me from actually, deeply feeling any hurtful emotions or unpleasantness.  It simply numbed my psyche so I could cope.  Today I'm thinking so clearly that I know I can handle any unpleasant situation on my own without the need of a drug that only "glosses over" the need to deal with issues.  It's very liberating!  So what if I cry or get emotional....that's only part of emotional well-being!

As an added benefit to post-antidepressants, I find I'm consuming less alcohol and eating responsibly. The days of being inactive are over!  I have more energy!

Zoloft.....I can't deny its effectiveness.  It does work when needed.  Just don't think you need to commit your psyche (or your emotional health) to a world of mental cloudiness.  You can get through life without antidepressants.  In fact, you'll want to!  It is truly wonderful to feel like your old self again.  You can too.