So i just took my first dose of venlafaxine today and after googling it i'm scared. apparently this medication has the worst withdrawal symptoms and worst side effects of any antidepressant out there. what do i do? i'm scared?

Discuss your concerns with your prescribing MD. I'm uncertain that what you've heard about venlafaxine is accurate, but it is a medication that should be taken with continual guidance from your doctor. It works a little differently from other antidepressants and treats certain disorders effectively.

Please see a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in multiple types of psychotherapy to help. Your medication should be managed by a Psychiatrist who knows your medical history. If you are not confident with your Psychiatrist please see another for a second opinion.

The SSRI class is known for withdrawal symptoms. I would discuss this aspect with your psychiatrist and get his input on which class causes less withdrawal ( like Wellbutrin) and after what period of use does the withdrawal phenomenon manifest-usually after 6 weeks. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants

Just some general contraindications. Don't use if you are on MAOIs. Caution with use of other CNS depressants or alcohol. If you have heart failure, hyperthyroidism or hypertension, this drug increases blood pressure and heart rate. It lowers the seizure threshold, those with seizures should not be on this medication unless told that it is safe by a physician. Glaucoma patients talk to doc.