I am reading a lot of post on side affects of lexapro (Escilitilopram). I started taking this medication back in 2015. Have not had any side effects other than helping me with my PTSD Anxiety/Panic Disorder.

Recenlty had serious family issues and medial issues with my spouse and under severe stress that was causing depression. My Mayo Psychiatrist medication specialist suggested uping it by a half pill if I felt needed it. We discussed me trying to resume my daily exercise activities as had let them lapse and if still needed the increase in my medications would raise it. It was my decision to make.

I resume my exercise routine and greatly improved my mental outlook and never increased my dosage. Regarding weight gain. I read that it does cause an increase in weight gain. I am not sure why. My weight gain comes from my love of mixed nuts as well as TV habit of snacking when watching TV.

If a medication does not work for you or you have side affects speak up to your medical providers. When I had serious isses before and could not sleep I was given ambien. It did not work. My problem was my mind racing at bed time and could not stop it. My psychiatrist specialist then put me on Trazodone. Boy did that work. It kind of put a brake on mind racing and could get to sleep. The only side affect I could bring up were groggnies in mornings and very vivid dreams.

I was told the very vivid dreams was the Trazodone as it increases serrotonin.

I find and maybe can work for others is to find an exercise (after doctor approval) that you like to do and do it. If it is a social type exercise (I do water aerobics) you are doing it with others who like the exercise and enjoying themselves.

If exercise is not your thing consider a hobby. Find a hobby you like doing and do it. If social one you will be doing it with others who like it and enjoying it togehter. If not enjoy it by yourself.

I read many books on FDR. He was an avid stamp collector. His family reported he worked almost every day on his stamp collection even during WWII. They said it brought him so much joy they knew it was good for him. Finding an exercise you enjoy or a hobby is good for you both mentally and physically not just rely on medications.