18 Surprising Side Effects of Taking Anxiety Medications
3. Insomnia

Struggling to get a good night’s sleep? Anxiety medications like SSRIs, which are designed to calm your mind, can ironically disrupt your sleep patterns. Insomnia caused by these medications might mean tossing and turning, waking up multiple times during the night, or feeling restless despite being tired. Over time, poor sleep can exacerbate anxiety, creating a frustrating cycle. Simple adjustments, like taking the medication earlier in the day, creating a bedtime routine, or incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, may help. If the insomnia doesn’t improve, your doctor may adjust your treatment plan.
4. Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual side effects, including decreased libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, or erectile dysfunction, are common with anxiety medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. These issues can have a significant impact on relationships and self-esteem, adding stress rather than reducing it. Understanding that this is a common side effect—and not a personal issue—can help you navigate this challenge more confidently. Open communication with your partner and your healthcare provider is key. Your doctor may recommend switching to a different medication with fewer sexual side effects or adjusting the dosage to alleviate the problem.