Tried celexa (citalopram) years ago/anxiety, 5mg/day. horrific panic side effects- yes, at that low dose! should i avoid ssri meds or avoid meds altogether?

Anxiety: Anxiety can cause a paradoxical reaction in some patients. However, each SSRI has unique pharmacological properties and just because you had an adverse reaction to Zoloft (sertraline) doesn't necessarily predict how you'll respond to other SSRI's. I'd suggest closely partnering with your psychiatrist to discuss what medication might be best for you and whether behavioral therapy might be helpful.

No: Just because you had a reaction with one ssri does not mean you would have the same issue. Now you are interesting. For if you were diagnosed with depression/anxiety why such a low dose? If your symptoms persist and you have a clinical depression you are going to need medication so dm get going