hello to all

[callmesteve]

Hi all, ive suffered from depression, panic attacks for more than 25 years. Ive always managed to eventually get myself through the worst spells which seem to occur almost every 11 years lol 18, 29 and now 40. There is no light at the end of the tunnel as I know whats coming but this time im seeking help. I know what the root cause  my depression stems from but cant do anything about that, but I have seen my gp and im off work for the moment and im taking citalopram 20mg first tablet today. I will also be going to therapy in the new year. Ive recently split from my girlfriend which has triggered this latest spell and im left with a lot of debt leaving me freaking out that im going to lose everything else in my life. When I was 29 it took me almost 2 years to feel normal again and im not sure I can survive going through another spell like that again.

[Pip]

 :welcome:

Getting help is a positive step forward.  Cycles of depression are horrible.  For me it's certain times of the year rather than being okay for a few years then getting depressed.

Citalopram is one of the common medication for depression.  You will have been told to give it time to work and it may be upped.  If it doesn't work don't despair as you may need to try something else or a combination.  It's good that you have therapy in the new year. 

It is common to have a root cause of depression and not being able to change that.  I know for myself it was a case of coming to terms with not being able to do anything about that and learn coping mechanisms.

[callmesteve]

My first day on my meds and I don't like them, im shaky sleepy sweaty confused light headed don't want to stay in one place but don't want to move and chest pain all this almost set me into a major panic, I cant take these anymore, I cant function properly and there is no way I could go back to work feeling like this, it would be dangerous for me and others around me. The doctor did say they would take a couple of weeks to work but if this is how im going to feel everyday id rather try and cope without any meds.

[Pip]

Try taking them for a few days more then contact your doctor again.  When I was taking citalopram I didn't have side effects and it did work for a while with the dosage being put up to 40mg.  It was my choice to come off it as it didn't make any difference to my depression after several months.  It might be as simple as citalopram wont help at all but it is better to be honest with your doctor.  Unfortunately whatever anti depressant you take will tale a little while before taking effect although some are quicker than others.

[callmesteve]

Ok il try them for another couple of days, if the side effects don't get better im going to have to stop taking them.
Thanks Pip

[stewart]

hi steve, welcome to the forums, all our boddies react fiferently to medication, some better than others, but if they are not helping, your doc is the best one to talk to, there are many anti d's out there and he will try something else for you