When did SSRI's start helping you?

[kendramae09]

I started Lexapro 9 days ago, and I don't really feel much of a difference. My question is, When did SSRI's actually start working for you???

[WiSp]

It would be too good if it was so short. You will need at least 2 weeks and it's usually one month.

[Door]

If your dose isn't high enough, you might not feel a difference.  I noticed a positive effect with Lexapro after I reached 20 mg.  It took a week or two.

[Bama21]

I started on 20 mg of citalopram and started feeling what I think were its positive effects within 7 days. 

[lbrickme]

Depends on the person.  I think 1-2 weeks would be unusually fast to feel results.  It's usually more like 4-6 weeks.  I was on Celexa and it did help me a lot but it wasn't an all-of-a-sudden sort of thing.  Over the course of the first few months I realized I felt better mentally and physically (aches & pains, headaches, etc went away).  My psychiatrist at the time said the first sign that it's working isn't usually a personal awareness but rather that other people comment that you seem happier, more relaxed, somehow better. 

Another thing to note is that different people need different dosages to have it take effect.  For example, for Celexa the clinical dose is usually 20-60mgs.  Some feel better at 20mg but others need 60mg. 

[Mellie26]

For me i had to be on it for at least a month to take effect. I'm on cipralex right now. They had to play around with it. My anxiety did decrease but i was still have a considerable amount of trouble controlling my thoughts, and they increased the dose. It's a bit frustrating of a process but the doctor will work with you (hopefully!). While you're on an SSRI i also find it important to eat well and exercise if you can. I have to do that too otherwise my treatment doesn't work as well.

[FeelingOptimistic]

So glad you made that leap of faith!  I know you struggled about it for awhile!

For me, it was between a week or two.  Sometimes it takes a little longer.  Stick with it and give it a chance!  I think you'll be glad you did!!