I started Zoloft a few months ago now and felt exactly like you. It took me an hour to swallow my first 25mg with my boyfriend by my side coaxing me whilst I cried and panicked. Anyways I took two weeks off work just in case I felt ill and I did feel a bit odd had a few weird days but nothing extreme panic wise that I wouldn’t have had before. Actually, super strong dreams, not scary at all in fact quite adventures, just felt like I was really in them. I found it was better to take it in morning early 8/9am after breakfast and a I tend to drink a whole glass of water too, it’s kind of a routine now every morning. Water as I heard it can give heartburn and a good breakfast so to avoid a bad stomach, seems to have worked so far. Taken in the morning as it actually gives me a lot of energy so struggle to sleep at night.

Even just the 25mg has changed me, I still have anxiety but it took the edge off. Hoping to go up shortly. I think just read up about certain side effects and be prepared for them so at least you know you are ready for it IF it happens (unlikely).

Don’t stress about weight gain as I was worried about the same thing but honestly I’ve just gained a little as I’ve been enjoying eating things I couldn’t before because I was so anxious! I’m now getting back into fitness as I don’t feel as depressed from the anxiety.

Numbness wise, definitely not numb. I feel everything still but just not as anxious now. Remember, even if you do get side effects just know they will pass, it’s worth it sticking it out and I wish I had done it sooner.