General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Would anyone please tell me their experiences with Zoloft? [View all]Crunchy Frog
(26,630 posts)Just that it's not an antidepressant. There are lots of things that can improve depression in some people, including alcohol, cannabis, and opioids.
I take a benzo too, and it helps some with my anxiety, which is a significant part of my depression. It's just not all that effective, and I still have high anxiety levels even with it.
I'm not sure why you're singling out Zoloft in particular as being given out too quickly. It's one of probably dozens of SSRIs that are out there, that all pretty much work in the same way. Zoloft isn't functionally different, or stronger, or more side effects than any other one that I'm aware of. I guess if you know someone who had a bad response, then it might stand out for you, but that can happen with any medication.
I'm pretty sure that most doctors will be a lot more comfortable prescribing SSRIs than benzos (including Xanax) just because benzos are a controlled substance, and can be abused, or be addictive to some people.
I'm not trying to diminish your experience, and I'm glad that you've found something that works for you. Just trying to clear up misinformation.
Doctors will give out SSRIs and SNRIs very readily, probably too quickly, as you say. They tend to be more cautious with the benzos, probably with good reason.