Looking for advice - Lexapro or *nothing*?

For 20+ years I've had problems with either dysthymic disorder or dysthymia + depression + a little social anxiety (depends on who you ask, LOL).  It went untreated for many years, then eventually a doctor prescribed Zoloft for me.  I was on Zoloft for 7 years or so and it did alleviate some of the depression/dysthymic symptoms, but eventually it sort of "pooped out" and wasn't working too well anymore.  Several years ago I switched to Effexor, which also worked well at first, but has had some unwanted side effects and its effectiveness also started to wane.

I inadvertently took myself off Effexor several weeks ago -- forgot it when I went on an out-of-town trip, then couldn't afford to refill it when I returned.  Much to my surprise I kind of feel *better* than when on it.  I feel more like myself if that makes any sense.  I don't feel so emotionally *flat* and brittle and  zombie-like and it seems like I am remembering how to have fun, what I like/dislike, etc. (stuff I seem to have lost track of while on Zoloft and Effexor).  I am also regaining my libido to some extent, which has been a major problem for me (and for my relationships).  Has anybody else had this experience?

The quandary I am having is, what do I do now?  I just started seeing a psychiatrist (first time in many years), who would like me to try Lexapro.  Personally I kind of don't want to start back on anything.  The sex drive issue is a big one for me.  I have always had a high sex drive; all these years of sexual side effects have been a real *****.  It really made me feel not-like-myself and has put a major monkey wrench in my marriage, and it is a real relief to have that beginning to come back.  The "zombie" issue is a big one too, I didn't recognize how flat I was feeling until I came off Effexor and could see the contrast.  I don't know what to do -- I see the merit of trying something new, but the stuff I read on this board about Lexapro is a bit scary, and I'm also afraid of losing my sense of self and libido again.  At the same time I feel a little apprehensive of staying "cold turkey" since I've been on meds so long.

Would love to hear from anybody who is or has been in a similar situation -- what would you do or what have you done?  What have your experiences been like.

[AJC]

Look up "Gwen Olsen" on youtube or google video.

I took Lexapro, 1 pill. almost killed me. Be careful. different people have different outcomes.

T