When I started the menopause depression and wanted to run away from home for no apparent reason the doc knew we had to go on something. We tried several anti-depression meds. I settled on effexor because there was the least effect on the sexual side effects. I have been as high as 150 mg down to 37.5 mg, which I am on now. I seem to be on an even keel with them. I will say that if I forget and miss 2 doses, on that second day I go into withdrawl and it is ugly ( I wouldn't even drive).I have been taking it for about 10 years. By the way why not Buspar for anxiety? Works for me when I am too anxious occasionally.