txearthgirl

Close Depression
Type: Clinical (Major) Depression

My depression started when I was 14 and has lasted my entire life with only brief episodes of remission. I am now 52. I have been hospitalized for depression three times. My symptoms are lack of interest, social withdrawl, reclusiveness, dark thinking, emotional pain, and lack of joy. My affect becomes flat and I shut down. I have only enough energy to do the minimum required to stay functional. My remissions are sporatic. I'm never happy, only less depressed.

Treatments

Celexa Not Working

Made me too sleepy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Somewhat Helpful

When I have enough energy to talk it's ok. But when you are really depressed you don't feel like talking

Cymbalta Not Working

Too sedating

Desipramine Somewhat Helpful

Before the SSRI's this was the best drug. Side effects of irregular heart rate.

Effexor Not Working

High blood pressure and high heart rate

Elavil Not Working

Too sedating

Lexapro Not Working

Too sedating

Meditation Working / Worked

My only stimulus to keep trying at life.

Paxil Not Working

Too sedating

Positive Thinking Not Working

I can have an outward positive attitude and inwardly be dying

Prozac Somewhat Helpful

Bad constipation

Psychotherapy Working / Worked

Periodically I speak to a therapist. My depression in endogenous so it comes from within.

Trazodone Not Working

Have taken as a sleep aide when needed.

Wellbutrin Not Working

Made my tinnitus worst

Writing Somewhat Helpful

Helps me compare how I am feeling now with days past.

Zoloft Somewhat Helpful

I'm still depressed but perhaps 5% less depressed than if not on it.