zoloft? habit reversal therapy?

I took zoloft and though it didn't work for me I know people it has worked for. One thing: Be VERY careful not to consume any stimulants (caffien, guarana.etc) while taking it. I did and had a major freak out episode where I was hallucinating, feeling clausterphobic, and so full of energy that I walked about 20 miles at night in the middle of winter because I couldn't bring myself to be confined to the subway.

Hi Michigangirl! I started taking Zoloft 12 years ago after the birth of my son --when my postpartum funk alerted my ob/gyn to my undiagnosed issues with anxiety and depression. So I've been on Zoloft (100 mg) for a long time, and way before I began my manic picking episodes which started about two years ago. I don't know that the Zoloft has really helped with the picking (clearly not super well) but it does help keep my moods more even which is obviously important for any type of compulsive behavior. Yes, I've gained weight but I'm not convinced that is due to the meds. I maintained my weight for the first few years that I took Zoloft...and then I turned 35 and everything went downhill. Now at 42, I am 30lbs heavier than when I had my son, but that may be more because of my sweet tooth, sporadic exercise, and hormone changes. It certainly has done a number on my skin, which is what triggered the CSP. All this is to say that Zoloft is certainly worth trying. I'm sure you know you'll need to be on it for at least 4-6 weeks before you notice a real change in your emotions. And don't worry about the caffeine thing. I drink at least one cup of coffee in the morning and frequently take OTC meds that contain caffeine. I need the perking-up effect! I've had no problem with it. Obviously people respond differently to medications, so it may or may not be a problem for you. I'd recommend you at least try it. You can always wean off it if it doesn't seem to help, but you'll never know until you try. Good luck!

Oh, you are sooo lucky, I wish I could be part of a habit reversal therapy! But I've been on Zoloft for 6 years and have had no problems with side effects. It really helps my depression/anxiety disorder, but obviously I'm still a picker so not sure how mush good it does me there. But my therapist said it should help "control my impulses" and I guess I could be a little better now than I was when I started... I say give it a try!