Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 1/5/2012

Question
I started taking Zoloft (50mg) for depression about a month ago. A little after a week into it, I started cutting myself. Not for any reason, really, I just did it. Prior to being on Zoloft, that was not my normal response to something.

In general, I feel a lot better. I have more energy, I can handle being around people, I don't feel like the walls of darkness are closing in on me. But I'm clenching my jaw, I feel like I've drank 6 cups of coffee (and I haven't had any), I'm fidgety and I can't stay still. That, and the reasonless need to cut.

Both of my parents and my older brothers are bipolar, and I'm wondering if what I'm experiencing is hypomania. My psychiatrist hasn't returned my phone calls, and my roommates and friends are concerned (personally, the only reason I mind how I'm feeling is cause everyone else seems so worried).

Answer
Hi Darci . . .

An increase in impulsiveness is sometimes seen in people taking antidepressants. If accompanied by racing thoughts, a cluttered mind, insomnia, and/or irritability it may represent hypomania.

I think you should make as maximal attempt to reach your psychiatrist, if that does not work, you should find another psychiatrist or consult the psychiatrist in a local emergency room.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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