It's positive to hear that you are experiencing some relief from the debilitating anxious feelings after starting antidepressant medication. Antidepressants typically take some time to reach their full effect, and individual responses may vary. It's not uncommon for people to experience improvements in their symptoms gradually over the first few weeks or months of taking medication.
Reduced or eliminated feelings of debilitating anxiety could indicate that the medication is starting to work for you. However, it's important to note that intrusive thoughts can still persist even if your anxiety has lessened. Intrusive thoughts can be related to various factors, including anxiety, depression, or other conditions, and they may require additional treatment or coping strategies.
It's crucial to continue communicating with your healthcare provider throughout this process. They can monitor your progress, make adjustments to your treatment if necessary, and provide support in managing any persisting symptoms. Keep in mind that finding the right medication and dosage may require some trial and error, so be patient and give the medication time to take its full effect.
Additionally, therapy can be a valuable complement to medication in managing intrusive thoughts and other mental health challenges. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of therapy have shown effectiveness in addressing intrusive thoughts and providing coping mechanisms to deal with them.
Remember, everyone's experience with antidepressants and mental health treatments is unique, so it's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best approach for you. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication or treatment plan, don't hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They are there to support you on your journey to better mental health.