I started at 10mg and didn't have too many side effects. My psychiatrist upped me to 20mg after a month, as I was not feeling much relief. One month later I started on Abilify at 2mg upped to 5mg a month later, and that's where I am now. I had more side effects, dizziness, from the Abilify than I did from the Lexapro, but it's been a long time, so my memory may not serve me well. Today, with the Lexapro at 20mg and the Abilify at 5mg my depression is under control, and my anxiety is significantly lessened. I also practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help with my negative thinking and with the anxiety when it rears up.