Zoloft and productive period

I have taken Zoloft (100 mg) on and off for about 10 years. It is very effective at reducing depression for me, but it also dramatically reduces my motivation and ability to concentrate. Hence, I am always eager to get off the drug when I feel I am in a stable situation.

My most productive and creative periods have occurred about a month after stopping the medication. I have *never* had a productive period while on Zoloft.

The most dramatic side effect for me is nightmares, which generally occur when I am ramping up or down on the med (mostly the latter). If I miss several doses, I am often treated to horrific dream in which I go on a murdering rampage, or something similarly gruesome. They are deeply disturbing dreams, unlike anything I've ever experienced without medication.