Should I consider anti depressants?
Discussion
A little bit of history before I indulge more. I've been a long term sufferer of depressant but only really seek proper treatment around 9 years ago. I've been through a few different anti depressants during the time, a few helped and others were simply horrible. I stopped anti depressants for good 3 years ago. Since then I've only been on ADHD medication.
Since I've stopped things weren't too bad, I have my bad days but I can normally go through them. However lately I've notice that I might be slipping back into depression again. Well, I am not sure if it's depression at all but one thing I'm sure is that I can feel down very easily. Any small negative thing that happens to me would really affect me. It just makes me mentally exhausted and have no mood to do anything at all. I just dwell on the negative thoughts for far longer than I should and when that dark cloud goes away something else could trigger it again. Basically I am like Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh.
I have to admit recently work has been very difficult and I have lost contact with the only friend I have left. Most of my interactions outside of my family are usually via on line or small talk during working hours. Perhaps that put some strain into things as well.
Perhaps this is just linked to stress? Is there anything else I can try?
Since I've stopped things weren't too bad, I have my bad days but I can normally go through them. However lately I've notice that I might be slipping back into depression again. Well, I am not sure if it's depression at all but one thing I'm sure is that I can feel down very easily. Any small negative thing that happens to me would really affect me. It just makes me mentally exhausted and have no mood to do anything at all. I just dwell on the negative thoughts for far longer than I should and when that dark cloud goes away something else could trigger it again. Basically I am like Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh.
I have to admit recently work has been very difficult and I have lost contact with the only friend I have left. Most of my interactions outside of my family are usually via on line or small talk during working hours. Perhaps that put some strain into things as well.
Perhaps this is just linked to stress? Is there anything else I can try?
Sorry to hear that mate. Have you tried reading some books that might help you understand about your mind and your thoughts? If you learn how the brain works, it can really help you to control it. I know it's not for everyone, but for some, reading this sort of thing (or listening to the audio books if reading's not your thing) can be genuinely life changing.
Tell us a bit more about yourself, because it's hard to know what to suggest when we don't know you.
Tell us a bit more about yourself, because it's hard to know what to suggest when we don't know you.
Edited by slippery on Sunday 5th May 21:47
Probably wise to at least consider them as an option to help if not cure the current state of mind but perhaps in conjunction with some form of one on one discussion.
Having said this it seems difficult to get help sometimes, the doctors used to refer you but now you have to try and arrange it all yourself, this may vary from region to region though.
The main thing is you've noticed and feel you want to do something, seeking some help, either from medication or other options, would be wise even if it's just to confirm if you need it.
It does no harm to talk, even here.
wow...thanks for the quick replies.
Today is actually my birthday too but I just don't feel happy at all - even with the absolutely delicious dinner and cake the missus made. I tried to be happy by one small incident this morning affected my mood.
I am just a bit cautious when it comes to anti depressants (as once you start a course you need to commit to it). I had a bad experience with a doctor once where he just prescribed one to me without asking more thorough questions. The medication make me feel physically ill and tired whole day which affected work... This was years ago though so hopefully there is some advancement in meds now.
I did try reducing my alcohol intake (only drink 2-3 pints on weekends) and do more exercise but that doesn't seem to help much. I've heard camomile tea helps?
Today is actually my birthday too but I just don't feel happy at all - even with the absolutely delicious dinner and cake the missus made. I tried to be happy by one small incident this morning affected my mood.
I am just a bit cautious when it comes to anti depressants (as once you start a course you need to commit to it). I had a bad experience with a doctor once where he just prescribed one to me without asking more thorough questions. The medication make me feel physically ill and tired whole day which affected work... This was years ago though so hopefully there is some advancement in meds now.
I did try reducing my alcohol intake (only drink 2-3 pints on weekends) and do more exercise but that doesn't seem to help much. I've heard camomile tea helps?
davepoth said:
Did antidepressants work for you last time?
It was a bit of a hit and miss hence why I've went off them now. The ADHD med that I am on now is also known to be an anti depressant (in the States).I forgot the name (could Citalopram?) but that really had a negative impact on me.
thetapeworm said:
Having said this it seems difficult to get help sometimes, the doctors used to refer you but now you have to try and arrange it all yourself, this may vary from region to region though.
I used to be based up in Scotland but moved down to Northants 3 years ago. It's very hard to get a referral here and for depression you will normally be prescribed a default starter med and change course if that doesn't work out.crazy about cars said:
I tried to be happy by one small incident this morning affected my mood.
That's wrong right there. If you aren't happy, trying to be happy won't make you happy. It's OK to be sad on birthdays - as the song says, it's your party and you'll cry if you want to.
Have a bit of a think about what is making you feel bad. It might be something specific - job, house, family, something like that. If it is something specific then it's reasonably easy to take steps to fix that.
If it's not something specific, but more of a general malaise that is affecting you quite badly, then it's probably best to go back to your GP.
slippery said:
Tell us a bit more about yourself, because it's hard to know what to suggest when we don't know you.
Well I am your typical boring guy in IT who happens to be crazy about cars :P I used to be a very social creature (love to be around friends and have plenty) in my teens and early 20s but life changed drastically after getting married and having my first child.Edited by slippery on Sunday 5th May 21:47
At the moment all I have is my wife and kids - my immediate family is thousand of miles away and I've just lost what I'd consider my last friend due to him betraying my trust over and over again. I do have plenty of online friends and I enjoy chatting and interacting through forums. I think I have quite a lot of automated forum birthday wishes via email today! I get along with people at work well but then again there are all strictly work friends.
Sometimes I do miss being surrounded by mates but I would've thought I could cope with that after all these years...
ADs are a crutch, a helper, not a silver bullet. Used in conjunction with either CBT or psychotherapy they'll help you work things out. I'm saying from first hand, and third hand experience, just so my comment isnt taken as a 'cant you just snap out of it' type.
Another thing to remember is that it's OK to feel the way you do every so often. Everyone else does too, but the b
ds always seem to be happy when you're sad
Another thing to remember is that it's OK to feel the way you do every so often. Everyone else does too, but the b
ds always seem to be happy when you're sadI am currently dose reducing Venlaxafine after about 2 years, on the back of some messy PTSD.
I would if you can afford it, see a private psychiatrist or if you can see one via the NHS (can take a while) . Don't assume your GP knows what they are doing.
The cheapest option is a basic antidepressant your problem may not be chemical imbalance but something else. In which case antidepressants will be but a sticking plaster.
There may be a cause behind your depression, might be worth some REMD therapy.
Check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAgplgTxfc
There are shorter versions around. But well worth watching.
Theres probably nobody able to devote as much time to making sense of your mood as you. So worth making the effort.
I would if you can afford it, see a private psychiatrist or if you can see one via the NHS (can take a while) . Don't assume your GP knows what they are doing.
The cheapest option is a basic antidepressant your problem may not be chemical imbalance but something else. In which case antidepressants will be but a sticking plaster.
There may be a cause behind your depression, might be worth some REMD therapy.
Check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAgplgTxfc
There are shorter versions around. But well worth watching.
Theres probably nobody able to devote as much time to making sense of your mood as you. So worth making the effort.
davepoth said:
That's wrong right there. If you aren't happy, trying to be happy won't make you happy.
It's OK to be sad on birthdays - as the song says, it's your party and you'll cry if you want to.
Have a bit of a think about what is making you feel bad. It might be something specific - job, house, family, something like that. If it is something specific then it's reasonably easy to take steps to fix that.
If it's not something specific, but more of a general malaise that is affecting you quite badly, then it's probably best to go back to your GP.
Cheers for the advice... I will definitely take some time out to have a good think. I suspect it might be triggered by added stress at work recently just not too clear at the moment.It's OK to be sad on birthdays - as the song says, it's your party and you'll cry if you want to.
Have a bit of a think about what is making you feel bad. It might be something specific - job, house, family, something like that. If it is something specific then it's reasonably easy to take steps to fix that.
If it's not something specific, but more of a general malaise that is affecting you quite badly, then it's probably best to go back to your GP.
The only thing I'm not sure is how bad it is affecting me. I know so far that it's easy to feel down but not too sure if I should go to the GP (and possibly go back on ADs) or just try some alternative methods such as some form of counselling etc...
Don't laugh at me but I did create an account on Mumsnet and at one point was very tempted to post there for help...
Big_Dog said:
I am currently dose reducing Venlaxafine after about 2 years, on the back of some messy PTSD.
I would if you can afford it, see a private psychiatrist or if you can see one via the NHS (can take a while) . Don't assume your GP knows what they are doing.
The cheapest option is a basic antidepressant your problem may not be chemical imbalance but something else. In which case antidepressants will be but a sticking plaster.
There may be a cause behind your depression, might be worth some REMD therapy.
Check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAgplgTxfc
There are shorter versions around. But well worth watching.
Theres probably nobody able to devote as much time to making sense of your mood as you. So worth making the effort.
Venlaxafine sounds familiar to me as I'm pretty sure I was put on that too before. Sometimes I would very much like to see a psychiatrist but I am not sure if there will be one accessible (or affordable) enough to me outside of NHS.I would if you can afford it, see a private psychiatrist or if you can see one via the NHS (can take a while) . Don't assume your GP knows what they are doing.
The cheapest option is a basic antidepressant your problem may not be chemical imbalance but something else. In which case antidepressants will be but a sticking plaster.
There may be a cause behind your depression, might be worth some REMD therapy.
Check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOAgplgTxfc
There are shorter versions around. But well worth watching.
Theres probably nobody able to devote as much time to making sense of your mood as you. So worth making the effort.
Antidepressants can help but from my understanding of the research, they work best in conjunction with CBT. I have personally found mindfulness based cognitive therapy v useful. Have you ever tried talking therapy? If you notice yourself getting stuck in negative trains of thought you may find it a useful route to take.
Not sure where you live but North Surrey think C£95 an hour and C£150 for the first appointment. That's The Priory hospital group.
The other option is a frank conversation with you GP. Explain that you are responsible for your families wellbeing etc. I would go psychiatrist rather than psychologist if you are paying. Similar costs in my area.
If your GP is onside then take what you can get. I would avoid too many chemicals unless you are under the care of a psychiatrist.
The whole GP having a stab in the dark is not good as you are your own test dummy. Some of them can be a bugger to get off of. Brain zapps etc.
It's a clever old game the mind, best played carefully or you will go up and down like the proverbial lady of ill reputes under garments.
The other option is a frank conversation with you GP. Explain that you are responsible for your families wellbeing etc. I would go psychiatrist rather than psychologist if you are paying. Similar costs in my area.
If your GP is onside then take what you can get. I would avoid too many chemicals unless you are under the care of a psychiatrist.
The whole GP having a stab in the dark is not good as you are your own test dummy. Some of them can be a bugger to get off of. Brain zapps etc.
It's a clever old game the mind, best played carefully or you will go up and down like the proverbial lady of ill reputes under garments.
P/Ts are averaging £50/hr private, there are some who work for less
Here's a summary of qualifications to be looking for in private ones (from the one I worked with who I'd recommend but who's no-where near Northants
MSc Occupational Psychology
MA Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
EMDR Level 3
Level 2 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
CBT Diploma
Training in adult psychoanalytic psychotherapy
Psychodynamic Supervision
Level A & B Psychometrics
Here's a summary of qualifications to be looking for in private ones (from the one I worked with who I'd recommend but who's no-where near Northants
MSc Occupational Psychology
MA Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
EMDR Level 3
Level 2 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
CBT Diploma
Training in adult psychoanalytic psychotherapy
Psychodynamic Supervision
Level A & B Psychometrics
oldbanger said:
Antidepressants can help but from my understanding of the research, they work best in conjunction with CBT. I have personally found mindfulness based cognitive therapy v useful. Have you ever tried talking therapy? If you notice yourself getting stuck in negative trains of thought you may find it a useful route to take.
I tried getting therapy (I think it was called CBT) but after a few sessions (3 sessions over few months) she signed me off saying there's nothing else she can do for me. I think I will definitely do some research on private options.andy-xr said:
P/Ts are averaging £50/hr private, there are some who work for less
Here's a summary of qualifications to be looking for in private ones (from the one I worked with who I'd recommend but who's no-where near Northants
MSc Occupational Psychology
MA Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
EMDR Level 3
Level 2 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
CBT Diploma
Training in adult psychoanalytic psychotherapy
Psychodynamic Supervision
Level A & B Psychometrics
Ah never realised there's so many different qualifications to look out for. Thanks for the heads up matey. Here's a summary of qualifications to be looking for in private ones (from the one I worked with who I'd recommend but who's no-where near Northants
MSc Occupational Psychology
MA Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
EMDR Level 3
Level 2 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
CBT Diploma
Training in adult psychoanalytic psychotherapy
Psychodynamic Supervision
Level A & B Psychometrics
I could use a psychiatrist (I still get tad confused between psychologist and psychiatrist...) where I can lie down on a comfy sofa and pour my heart out. My missus is being absolutely wonderful and patient but with all her good intentions sometimes I would prefer a more professional feedback...
If possible I would prefer not to be put back on a course of AD again. From experience most of them either make me tired all the time or physically ill...
Big_Dog said:
Not sure where you live but North Surrey think C£95 an hour and C£150 for the first appointment. That's The Priory hospital group.
The other option is a frank conversation with you GP. Explain that you are responsible for your families wellbeing etc. I would go psychiatrist rather than psychologist if you are paying. Similar costs in my area.
If your GP is onside then take what you can get. I would avoid too many chemicals unless you are under the care of a psychiatrist.
The whole GP having a stab in the dark is not good as you are your own test dummy. Some of them can be a bugger to get off of. Brain zapps etc.
It's a clever old game the mind, best played carefully or you will go up and down like the proverbial lady of ill reputes under garments.
Someone recommended a Priory doc to me. I called and the cost was going to be £340 for the initial consultation. Fek that, made me feel more anxious and depressed.The other option is a frank conversation with you GP. Explain that you are responsible for your families wellbeing etc. I would go psychiatrist rather than psychologist if you are paying. Similar costs in my area.
If your GP is onside then take what you can get. I would avoid too many chemicals unless you are under the care of a psychiatrist.
The whole GP having a stab in the dark is not good as you are your own test dummy. Some of them can be a bugger to get off of. Brain zapps etc.
It's a clever old game the mind, best played carefully or you will go up and down like the proverbial lady of ill reputes under garments.
Sorry OP, just saying.
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