Seeking Guidance and Perspectives
**Age: 25, Female** I find myself in need of some thoughtful advice, so I sincerely hope you take the time to read my story and share your honest thoughts. I appreciate your consideration and wish everyone here strength and healing for the journey ahead. **A Brief Background:** Approximately two years ago, in December 2023, I took a single dose of Lexapro to cope with my overwhelming depression. I constantly expressed to those around me that all I felt was sadness. The morning after taking that pill, I woke up feeling entirely disconnected from reality. Battling health anxiety, I turned to Reddit to read about Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD), and made a few posts using an old account. The responses were disheartening, leaving me feeling as though I had irrevocably altered the course of my life. The worry consumed my existence for an entire year. I found myself perpetually scrolling online forums, consulting various doctors in a state of panic, convinced that I had ruined everything. During this tumultuous period, my boyfriend was treating me poorly and was unfaithful, which led to a painful breakup that left me heartbroken. The point I want to emphasize is that I repeatedly conveyed to my therapists and doctors that I felt emotionally numb and was experiencing symptoms of anhedonia. Nevertheless, I still experienced joy, sadness, and anxiety—just dulled. Soon after, I entered another relationship that I believed was transformative. My sex drive appeared to diminish, and while I attributed this to the Lexapro, I wondered if my worries fed into it after reading similar concerns online. During intimacy, my mind would race, questioning whether I felt sensations as I once did. However, I could still achieve orgasm, often feeling so sensitive that I would ask my partner to pause. **Overview of My Current State:** Fast forward to today—although I have encountered numerous ups and downs over the past two years, life has been manageable for the most part. Yet, the concern over possibly experiencing PSSD lingers in the back of my mind. I’ve noticed fluctuations in my emotional numbness; I feel alive and different when I love someone. There are moments that still make me blush, and I often feel anxiety mixed with excitement around those I’m attracted to, sometimes experiencing butterflies in my stomach. While I still smile spontaneously and can feel a rush of excitement from good news, such moments are fleeting. I have the ability to orgasm, and I still experience intense arousal. Recently, during a massage, I didn’t feel that ethereal sensation that previously overtook my body. It seems that I cry often and frequently feel emotionally dulled. Just the other day, I found myself laughing uncontrollably after slipping on ice. Through it all, I’ve shared laughter with friends and family during many joyous moments. Although my libido has waned, I’ve discovered some sparks of desire at times, and I can achieve orgasm with a vibrator even through my clothing. I acknowledge it may sound odd, yet I perform this action to reassure myself of my capacity to feel anything at all. A few months back on vacation with my boyfriend, I experienced a heightened libido and even reached orgasm from his gentle touch. There might be some desensitization pertaining to my genitals, which could stem from overthinking. **My Question for You:** Based on my experiences, do you believe I am grappling with PSSD, or could this merely be indicative of deep-seated major depression and dissociation? Is it possible my challenges stem from that one Lexapro pill I took two years ago? I often feel like I’m lost in a haze, disconnected for much of the time, while occasionally, I experience bursts of normalcy throughout the month. I still find joy in cooking and have moments of energy where I sing and dance in front of the mirror, sharing those joyful updates with friends. Yet, I feel something is missing—like a vital connection that needs restoration. I'm returning to therapy soon, as the last few years have been particularly difficult due to grief and experiences of abuse, both physical and emotional. Recently, I watched a TED talk from someone who battled major depression and found hope years later. Their concluding statement resonated with me: "The feeling I have right now is that I don’t want to die; I want to live forever.” I aspire to reach that feeling myself someday. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. Even though tears may accompany my words, I hope I am not destined to remain trapped in this state. I welcome any questions or insights you may have. Wishing peace, love, and healing to everyone. ♥️
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 9:10:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: You are experiencing emotional numbness and concerns about PSSD following a single dose of Lexapro two years ago. It's essential to explore whether these feelings stem from PSSD or ongoing mental health challenges, especially in the context of your past trauma and grief. Returning to therapy is a positive step toward resolving these issues.
Explanation: It's understandable to feel anxious about the effects of a medication, especially when you've been reading about experiences that resonate with your own. However, the symptoms you describe—like emotional numbness mixed with moments of joy and connection—could be influenced by multiple factors, including depression, anxiety, and the impact of significant life events (like your breakup and past trauma). PSSD is a recognized concern for some individuals after taking SSRIs, but the complete scope of your symptoms could also point to either persistent depression or the lingering effects of trauma.
Your experiences of joy, desire, and laughter indicate that you are capable of feeling deeply, even if those feelings sometimes come and go or seem dulled. This fluctuation may suggest that your emotional responses are not solely linked to PSSD; they may be tied to your psychological state and healing journey.
Next Steps:
-
Continue Therapy: Returning to therapy is crucial. Work with your therapist to explore your feelings of disconnection, anxiety, and emotional numbness. Discuss the effects of your past relationships and trauma, as these can significantly impact your mental health. Focus on developing coping strategies and emotional regulation skills.
-
Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or breathing exercises. These can help you remain present and reduce anxiety. Grounding techniques can also help when you feel disconnected, allowing you to reconnect with the moment and your body.
-
Journal Your Experiences: Keep a journal to document your emotions, moments of joy, and any physical sensations. This can help you identify patterns in your feelings and reactions, providing valuable insights to discuss with your therapist.
-
Limit Online Research: While it can be tempting to search for answers on forums, these can sometimes exacerbate anxiety. Rather than seeking out potentially distressing stories, consider focusing on reputable sources or discussing your concerns with your therapist.
-
Communicate with Your Partner: If you’re in a supportive relationship, communicate openly about your feelings and experiences. Sharing your thoughts can foster deeper intimacy and understanding.
-
Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself throughout this process. Acknowledge that healing takes time and that it’s okay to have ups and downs. Celebrate the small victories, like your moments of joy or connection with others.
You’re taking positive steps toward understanding and healing, and it’s important to remember that recovery is a journey. Embrace the moments of joy when they come while seeking support and guidance to navigate your concerns. You are not alone, and there is hope for a more connected and fulfilling life ahead.
Related Questions
I'm Coming to Terms with My Lack of Taste
Hello! I’m finding it hard to articulate this without feeling peculiar, but I think I might have never truly experienced taste the way most people do. I can perceive a hint of flavor on the initial bite, but shortly after, it feels like the sensations just fade away. The taste vanishes almost instantly, or maybe there's a very brief transition phase. After a couple of bites, all I can discern is the food's texture and temperature. I am an 18-year-old woman, and I have no known health issues or family conditions that might clarify this situation. I also suspect that my sense of smell might be related to this peculiarity. It seems that if smell significantly impacts taste, then my olfactory perception is also atypical. Throughout my life, I believed this was standard and that most folks were exaggerating their ability to detect flavors. As far as my health is concerned, I have always considered myself healthy, without any evident issues that could shed light on this phenomenon. I have never endured illnesses that could have lasting effects on my senses and this has just been my reality for as long as I can remember. Another peculiar aspect: if I consume the same dish repeatedly over a series of days, I eventually can’t taste it at all—even the initial bite becomes flavorless after a while. It’s as if my brain ceases to acknowledge it as being flavorful. Consequently, I've developed significant issues with food textures. Since taste is scarcely present, I become overwhelmed by texture, making certain foods intolerable to eat, regardless of their perceived quality. I'm becoming increasingly aware that this might not be typical, and I’m eager to know if anyone else has faced something similar or has insights into what might be causing this. Could it be associated with sensory processing? Is it a smell-related concern? Or is there a neurological or psychological component? I genuinely am at a loss, but it feels quite odd to realize that something I believed was the norm my entire life might not be.
Navigating Health Anxiety: Real Concerns or Stress-Induced Symptoms?
Greetings, I’m a 17-year-old female standing at 4’11” and not classified as overweight. I do not consume alcohol, smoke, or take any medications apart from fiber supplements. Recently, I have been experiencing intense episodes of health anxiety. I find myself constantly monitoring my body for possible symptoms, and upon discovering something, I panic and immediately search for information online. What I'm struggling to determine is whether these symptoms are genuine or merely a manifestation of my anxiety and stress. I've become aware that I’m shedding more hair than normal during my brushing routine, and to give you context, I have curly hair. Additionally, my appetite has increased excessively. I experience random muscle twitches throughout my body and encounter a peculiar sensation of dizziness nearly every day; it’s not the spinning sensation, but more of a feeling of being unfocused, if that makes sense. When I look up these symptoms online, I often read that they could indicate diabetes, which only exacerbates my anxiety. However, I don’t feel an unquenchable thirst, I don’t suffer from a dry mouth, and my urination patterns involve about six times a day, without a constant urge to go. Despite feeling somewhat fatigued each day, I recognize that my sleep schedule is quite erratic, usually going to bed at 3 AM and waking up around 2 PM. I fully acknowledge the need to correct this routine. Additionally, I haven’t noticed any skin tags or dark patches on my skin. I never wake up in the night to urinate, and thankfully, that has not been an issue. I have been experiencing constipation for the past couple of months, which is why I rely on fiber gummies for relief—though they only help occasionally. I also encounter bouts of nausea, especially after meals, but I haven’t actually vomited. The texture of my stools seems harder to pass, and I’ve read that stress could be influencing this. Back in October 2025, I visited the hospital due to a sudden rash on my neck resembling hives. The medical professionals conducted a series of blood tests and a urine analysis; the blood work yielded normal results. Surprisingly, my urine had traces of blood, leading them to suspect a urinary tract infection (UTI), and they prescribed a week’s worth of antibiotics. Interestingly, I didn’t experience any symptoms of a UTI prior to this, but I completed the antibiotic course and subsequently had no further issues. Given my tendency to overthink health matters, I also developed anxiety regarding a kidney infection shortly after, fearing that the UTI might have persisted despite treatment. The month following my hospital visit, I was convinced I had developed sepsis, again with no actual symptoms to justify this fear. Fast forward to now, and I’m worried about diabetes. I realize that previously I had indulged in an increased amount of chocolate and sweets, and while I know diabetes doesn’t stem directly from sugar consumption, it’s hard to shake off that concern. If anyone has insights into whether these are legitimate symptoms or just anxieties manifesting, I would greatly appreciate your input.
Struggling with a Resurging Cough After Recovering from Pneumonia
I’m a 35-year-old female, standing 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 140 lbs, with no history of smoking. The only supplement I take is vitamin D. Since Christmas, I've battled through pneumonia. After enduring two chest X-rays, going through two rounds of antibiotics, and finally receiving a CT scan, I was given the all-clear just last week. Feeling significantly better after nearly two months, I was eager to return to my regular life, especially as my cough had virtually subsided. However, I decided to enjoy a few drinks over the weekend, and now the cough has returned with force. While it’s not the same as when I had pneumonia, it has morphed into an unproductive cough during the day, and it becomes productive at night and in the morning. Is it possible that alcohol triggered a resurgence of my cough? It seems surprising to me, given that it was just two days of moderate drinking. My doctor, however, reassured me that I’m not showing signs of pneumonia anymore, leaving me puzzled about the situation. Last night, I struggled to get only two hours of sleep due to the coughing. Can anyone shed some light on what might be going on?
Seeking Guidance for AFAB 22 with Health Concerns
I am a 22-year-old individual assigned female at birth (AFAB) who has been undergoing testosterone therapy for approximately two years. Currently residing in Middle Tennessee, I have the advantage of being close to both Nashville and Knoxville. My family health history includes dementia in my maternal grandfather. Additionally, I have undergone two emergency surgeries for my sinus cavities due to severe oxygen deprivation. Lately, I have been worried that the cumulative effects of various head injuries I sustained in the past may be catching up with me. Specifically, I’ve experienced two impacts to the back of my head that did not result in visible wounds, a significant injury to the front near my left brow bone, and another substantial bruise on my left side. After my most recent car accident, I received CT scans, as did I several times between 2019 and 2021. However, none of these scans have provided a clear diagnosis regarding any potential brain damage or alternative issues. I’m at a loss as to what could be affecting me and would greatly appreciate guidance on how to proceed. What should I communicate to my primary care physician (PCP)? Is it advisable to seek a specialist directly? I've noticed a marked decline in my cognitive abilities; I find myself thinking much more slowly and struggling with memory retention. My motivation has dwindled significantly, leaving me only driven to fulfill work responsibilities, yet I feel increasingly insecure about my performance. These feelings are overwhelming and make me feel quite inadequate. I am reaching out in hopes of finding some direction and support.
Unexpected Nausea Episodes in a Child
**Patient Overview:** 11-year-old male Height: Approximately 4 feet 8 inches Weight: 77 pounds Ethnicity: Caucasian Current Medications: Zofran 4mg when necessary, multivitamin, zinc picolinate Smoking History: Non-smoker with no prior exposure Medical Background: Bicuspid aortic valve Duration of Symptoms: Episodes initiated in October and have persisted through February Symptom Location: Generalized; presenting as whole-body symptoms including pallor/yellowing of the skin, nausea, extreme fatigue, mild headaches, and recent increased sensitivity to light and sound. **Comprehensive Description:** My son, who is 11 years old, undergoes sudden and unpredictable episodes where he suddenly becomes pale or yellow, experiences severe nausea, extreme tiredness, and occasional mild headaches. Recently, he has also noted becoming sensitive to bright lights and loud sounds. These episodes occur unexpectedly. He could be enjoying himself—playing, reading, engaging in school activities, or participating in weekend fun—when he suddenly feels unwell. Although he does not vomit, he often feels as if he might. Besides this alarming issue, he is generally a very healthy, energetic child who maintains a good diet mostly consisting of nutritious foods. He is constantly active—constructing Lego projects, climbing trees, and so on—rarely spends time in front of the TV, and thrives in a hybrid educational environment. His enthusiasm for school, music, and various projects reflects his passion for learning. Up until these episodes began, he had no notable medical history. I have been meticulously documenting all episodes from October to February. There appears to be no consistent correlation with his diet, level of physical activity, stress factors, time of day, or other potential triggers. **Tests Conducted:** - Comprehensive blood work (results deemed "excellent" by the medical team) - CT scan (showed minimally enlarged brain ventricles) - MRI conducted by a pediatric neurologist, who indicated that the ventricles' slight enlargement is insignificant - Holter monitor (completed without finding any connection to the nausea episodes) - Recent EKG, which identified a bicuspid aortic valve; however, heart function is normal, and this condition was not a primary concern for the medical professionals, who suggest scheduling another EKG in two years. Although he usually tries to persist and stay in school, some episodes are so intense, characterized by profound nausea and fatigue, that I have to take him home. We are increasingly anxious about his ability to make plans and enjoy life, as these nausea episodes occur nearly every week and can last from a few hours to several days. Currently, he is on day four of an episode with fluctuating nausea and headaches, remaining fatigued throughout.