Time to Ask About Medication?

[geneticblizzard]

Hey there, just wanted to ask a question. Last August I was seeing a psychologist, who was trying to help me with my depression. The therapy I got from her wasn't really effective, and rather than frustrate and annoy her, I just stopped the sessions. And now that I feel my depression has worsened a little, I'm wondering if antidepressants would be a more effective route for me. Before anyone recommends any lifestyle changes, let me say that I have tried the following;

Quitting drinking - There was several months last year during which I consumed no alcohol whatsoever. It didn't help my mood at all, if not worsened it.

Losing weight; I've been pretty tubby all my life, and last year my mother's nagging really got to me, and I just decided to shed some weight to shut her the heck up, and I did manage to lose over 10 pounds and I looked much skinner. However losing weight actually made me really, really miserable, and now that I've put the weight back on I don't really care, and I'm happy I have my favorite foods back.

Going to bed earlier; I'm a night owl. However there was a period last year, at which point I had to go to bed early and wake up early. Eventually I was waking up and going to bed at normal times, the same times as my parents, and let me tell you I f***ing hated it. Being alone at night gives me comfort, it gives me a chance to reflect and think, and when that is taken away from me it makes me miserable.

So, um yeah. The regular lifestyle changes associated with battling depression haven't really worked for me in the slightest, and even had the opposite effect in some places. So would you say that seeing a psychiatrist about trying antidepressants could potentially be of use to me?

[Glen53]

I think that it is indeed worth it.

Anti-depressants can have a bad image with some but they can really help in some situations. Many times depression can simply be the result of a chemical imbalace and medication can improve this. I have one or two friends who are taking meds long term and they have felt more able to cope with life since they have been on them.

I myself have been on them too. I didnt get so much help from them myself, but im sure this was because the meds were not right for me. They are currently discussing changing them. As long as you and your Doc monitor your moods then it wont do any harm to try.

[Sweetpea]

All I can say is that anti-depressants worked for me.  I also think therapy helps in conjunction with meds.  Everyone is different but maybe you should try, your dr will want to see you on a regular basis to check on your progress.

S x

[Zaf]

I agree,  for me medication is essential as is rest,  I find good counselling really helps too xx

[geneticblizzard]

Thanks! I'll be making an appointment with a doctor soon then, I guess.

[Sweetpea]

Really do think its worth a try.  Hope you gat an appointment soon.

Take care

S x

[lost rolex]

got to speak to my GP about upping my meds there not doing what they used to, i think the word tolerances and my stubbornness are joined


LR