Newly diagnosed

[Ohdaddy]

Hello Everyone,

Just thought I would say hello. Signed up to the forum so I could talk to people who may feel the same way as I do.  MY GP diagnosed depression and anxiety about 10 days ago but the more I read about the condition the more I realize that I have probably suffered since my late teens - I was always very shy and quiet and lacked confidence and low self esteem and suffered with short periods of intense unhappyness almost for no reason.

This period of unhappyness seems to have lasted about 3 years. So far the illness has cost me my job as a teacher and probably my marriage as well. Our child is the only factor that has stopped me from either running away or ending my life.   Started on fluoxetine 20mg the other week and am going through some of the side effects now - waking early in the morning, increased anxiety, headaches etc. I hope it is worth it.  Had a really bad day yesterday and ended up going back to bed and slept for 2 hours and felt really guilty afterwards for being at home and not doing anything. Feel a more positive today and hoping to get a few things done. I am on the waiting list for NHS counseling - could be a few weeks. Does that help?

Ohdaddy

[Ezel]

 .>,

[KateG]

Hi and welcome. We understand here and will always listen, and help if we can

Kate x

[Beetzart]

Hi Ohdaddy, and welcome to the forum!  It is a big step when you finally get diagnosed and treatment.  Fluoxetine is a good drug and works for many people, although try not to expect things to improve quickly as that can take several weeks.  Also, the good news is that if that didn't work there are many varieties of AD for you doctor to try.  It has taken me many years to find a good combination, not saying that is the case with everyone though.

All the best

Bee

[Buttercup]

Hi and welcome.

Glad you've been to the GP and started on Fluoxetine, like other have said it is a good anti depressant but can take some time to work, it made me really tired and grotty when I first started, these side effect wore off after about 2 weeks.

I was a teacher as well, but had to leave my post, (not great) and unsure when and if I will teach again.

[Ohdaddy]

T3eaching - I'm seeing a supply agency this afternoon - though I would try the odd day and see how it goes.

[Buttercup]

I did supply for a while and it was fine, I didn't use an agency as some of them take a cut of your wage.  I dropped of my cv at schools and used word of mouth. I got 4 days a week on average, which was great.  Unfortunately, because my case is a little complicated I have recently had to stop the supply as well. 

When I decide to work again I will supply for a while as I have been assured by 1 school to be number 1 on their supply list when I'm ready.

Hope it goes well for you.

[Zaf]

Hi and welcome :)

Z xx

[Sweetpea]

Hello and welcome, meds an take some time to kick in and for the side effects to go.  I have found counselling to be a great help.

S x x