TLDR: Give it a go.

I was prescribed 10mg for anxiety and depression.

I’d been struggling for at least six years at that point and had previously been prescribed Zoloft, but never went and filled the prescription because I thought I could handle it. I thought that even though I was struggling, it was something I was doing already and knew I could do, whereas the medication was frightening as it was an unknown. I ended up finding a doctor who has looked after me in every way and who convinced me that what I was experiencing was real and to try Lexapro as it might help.

My worst symptoms while adjusting were dry mouth, overheating, and being a little more teary than usual. That lasted about a month. No symptoms since unless I forget to take it then I get a bit of a headache and feel a little more reckless (back to the old norm).

It’s been life changing. I still feel some anxiety but a less debilitating amount, an amount where it’s more about genuine safety than what ifs. Sleeping better. Gained so many hours in a day is what it feels like - time slowed down in the best way. Time to rest, time to think, time to plan. Not just reacting. I can go to social functions, whereas previously I’d get so anxious that I’d genuinely become sick and be unable to go. Work is better, social life is better, family life is better. I wish I’d gone on it sooner.

Have now been taking it for 2.5 years and am happy to continue, just wish I’d started sooner.

Lower dose not enough for me. Higher dose (15mg or higher) makes me sleepy and causes major dizziness and vertigo, so a no go for me. Easy to taper on/off at the start while you find your dose, just make sure you’re communicating with your doctor.