Well, I have a similar problem w/a different drug. From what I've read elsewhere, either option could be true. Could be you now need a higher dose because your body's built a tolerance to the med. Could also be you need to try something else. But it really sounds like an issue you need to bring up w/a pdoc. Hope this helps....

Thanks linacat. I just want to find something that is going to help. Hope you have some success too

bump

If Citalopram is an antidepressant, and it has caused you to have mood swings, you may have bipolar disorder.

People frequently find out they have it by taking antidepressants for depression, which often swings them into mania if they are actually bipolar and not just depressed.

I have a big long description of bipolar disorder in the "what is the difference between" thread.

Thanks starfish, this is actually a worry of mine at the moment (being bipolar). Citalopram is an anti-d, but reading the leaflet that somes with it says that feelings of euphoria can be a side effect. The reason I don't want to increase my dose is that if I am bipolar, I know this can make it worse

Ruby, sometimes meds alone are only part of the solution. Therapy is also very useful while taking meds. Keep in mind that also day to day events in life will have an impact on our moods overall -- it may not be a med issue, but something that is going on around us and is affecting us.

Years ago, I also had unrealistic expectations of what meds would do and even time frames to build up levels of meds in the blood stream.

Alcohol, foods, even hormonal changes or women from month to month can make things seem that they aren't going well.

The key for me was discussing all health and mental health issues with the doc. I think many people have the tendency to discussion only one issue or two with specific docs, so that no one has a clear picture of what is happening for the whole person.

I've been on Citalopram for a year now, and I'm just coming off it because my Doc says I'm well - and I do feelwell. I am coming off 60mg which I think is the max dose. I never noticed it doing anything much, only making me feel more 'even'. Occasionally I'd feel really up, but not much - but not down either. But like the osteoron, I don't think I'd be 'well' now if it wasn't for a CBT one-to-one with my therapist. I can modify my behaviour, and understand my thoughts and responses so things don't get out of control. So now I'm looking forward to being drug free. Good luck to you.

Thanks osteoron. I know from my training that meds work best with therapy. Just can't afford it at the moment. I also appreciate that others aspects are at work here. My sis has just been re-diganosed with breast cancer, and its spread, and I know I'm stressed about this. But this is also why the euphoria doesn't make sense and is kinds freaking me out a little

I am sorry to hear about your sister and that certainly is additional stress. Traditional therapy is certainly a luxury, however, there are so many additional services available to people that you are likely eligible for.

Does your city have 211 services. Try there, they can supply low costs and free service listings.

Also, people are sometimes eligible through social service and family service agencies for counseling services.

If I recall correctly, the euphoria is expected with your meds and it is something that should be closely monitored.

Most hospitals have social work departments and crisis units in the emerg. They can often refer people for short term counseling through difficult periods like this.

One other option that comes to mind, you might want to contact your local university. Many graduate social work programs may offer free counseling services in the community. These are often social workers in the final year with counseling specialties.

United Way, YWCA and other large agencies often fund smaller community programs that may be of assistance to you.

Thanks again osteoron. Unfortunately I'm not eligible for any free healthcare and support here, as I simply have a work visa, and not permanent residency. I didn't realise that euphoria was a poss side effect of the citalopram, so thanks for that info

I was on citalopram. They worked for a while but then I got so bad even increasing the dose didn't help.

I am now on fluoxatine, which I am finding much better. So changing med's can work really well.

Did you suffer with euphoria WAMBAM when on Citalopram?

God that rhymes :-)

Ruby..that ain't necessarily so.

Contact the YWCA and ask about settlement programs for newcomers. The Samaritans is also a UK based organization that I believe has offices and supports in your neck of the woods.

Many mental health institutions also have specialized programs for things known as "adjustment disorder" for people who have relocated to a new country.

This is a free service in Auckland around settlement issues:

http://www.arms-mrc.org.nz/

While this is a youth service:

http://www.kidshelp.com.au/template/standard.aspx?s=104&p=2&r=1&b=0

I'm sure if you call, there are other options available for those who have immigrated from elsewhere.