I can honestly say, Mood-stabilisers are nothing to feel afraid of. Quetiapine has meant everything to me. As soon as I started it, there was a massive change to my mood and also my perception. I was annoyed I hadn't tried it sooner. I have more success from Quetiapine than I do the AD I use. Sometimes I feel a little concerned that I am now so reliant on anti-psychotics and AD's to lead a normal life. But, ever since I started the Mood-stabiliser, I haven't wanted to take my own life.
Recently I went through a particularly bad patch, but I think a lot of that was down to the physical issues I have, rather than the mental ones. If I was better, physically, I reckon I'd still be flying high.
At the end of the day, it's a very individual choice and any decent Psychiatrist will expect you to do all the research before they prescribe anything like this. My only draw back is it seems to have made me a bit mouthy. But, I'm not sure if that is more to do with being absolutely sick of people taking a rise or a side effect of the Quetiapine.
With respect, there's no point fretting over the Psychiatrist issue until, at least, they offer you an appointment and believe me, love, you wont get any until the new year, maybe Feb if you're lucky. Appointments to see a Psychiatrist are never easy to come by, no matter where you are in the country. Often, the fastest way to get any specialist help for depression is via the Community Mental health Team. If you're freaked out at the thought of a Psychiatrist, I imagine you'll be cringing at that suggestion....
Sorry, couldn't resist....
I hope you're feeling a little better tonight
