I am on it, 75 mg. I spent most of my life battling depression without meds or therapy. was severely depressed as a teenager and after my brother committed suicide but mostly have managed to survive with positive self talk and a very supportive husband. Two years ago, I was under a lot of stress both personally and at work and my dr suggested effexor. It was amazing. After about 3 weeks, I was feeling better, not drugged or high like I feared, but NORMAL!!! funny thing I noticed was that colours actually seemed brighter and I have always worn browns and beiges. I found myself shopping for clothes attracted to brighter colours that I normally not wear.
i went off it this spring and thought I was OK but but the end of August I fell off the cliff, suidicidal, the whole bit... It has taken from Sept 1 to now to get back to some level of sanity. so I don't know. I went off without consulting dr and still have never had therapy. went back on without consulting dr ( seeing her tomorrow to discuss therapy.