Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
Hi, I've been dealing with depression since I was about 13 years old. (im now 22). I moved out of my parents house 2 years ago to move across the country and go to univeristy. I mainly moved so far away because my dad is really abusive and i knew that if i didnt get out that i would probably try to kill myself. I've found moving to a new city and barely knowing anyone to be a huge struggle. My depression seems to have gotten worse over the years because i'm more isolated now than i ever have been. I'm wondering what you're thoughts are on anti-depressant medication? I have always pride myself on not needing to depend on a pill to get me through, but it seems that i'm getting a lot worse (since i just realized about 8 months ago that i'm gay and had a lot of stress with coming to terms with my sexuality and coming out to my conservative family). I wonder if there's anything else i can do before i get on anti-depressants. I've gone to counselling before, but because my depression comes in waves i don't really know when it's going to hit me. I've tried anti-depressants before and found that they really messed up my head and i almost blacked out. So i'm pretty nervous to try them again. thanks for any advice!!!
I was just recently put on the generic version of Celexa and that turned out worse than the Zoloft. It gave me nightmares, horrible ones where I couldn't sleep or anything; even WITH my Ambien. So I decided to stop them cold turkey, found out very fast that, that's baddd. I ended up in a psych ward for monitoring cause I went to the Dr and told her about how I almost killed myself the night before. So after that, I think I'll be staying away from any kind of anti-depressant.
Everyone is different though, all because I had bad experiences doesn't mean you will. You should try them if nothing else is working, but DO NOT just stop taking them. Don't miss a day, nothing. Those pills (at least for ME) are very sensitive and if you miss a day it's horrible.
I joined this site because I feel like I have no other support other than my family and boyfriend and they can only do so much. The friends I've made on here and the stories I've read have helped in some way. When I get down, I just blog about it on here and everyone is so nice to offer prayers and support it makes it a little easier to deal with.
I pray you find a solution and something that works for you. I will defiantly be sending prayers to yours.
And on the coming out, CONGRATULATIONS! It's very hard to admit that to other people. But do not let other peoples closed minds ruin the happiness you've found. If they love you, truly love you, they will accept you and support you. :D
There's all kinds of alternative remedies for depression, and lots of people have great success with them. Also, you might want to find some books by spiritual teachers that resonate with you. It's a great way to learn to see things from a different perspective and gain some valuable insights about yourself.
At one time I was on 5 meds, now on 3. I have also had therapy. I expect to be on meds my entire life and can't imagine going back to where I was, even though I'm still not great.
My feeling is that it's worth a try. I only wish I had had the opportunity and knowledge to get on antidepressants when I was 22. I might not be in the shape I'm in now.
If you read up on depression, you will see that the more episodes you go through, the worse it will get. Your brain actually have physiological changes with each episode.
BTW I have had bad reactions to certain drugs and no help with some. But my doc and I persevered and I was better although never as good as he wanted me to be. He wanted me to feel joy. I am happy just to feel contented.
You say your depression has gotten worse and you're isolating yourself. You are so young, I don't want you to suffer for years.
Having to take a pill is not a sign of weakness. It just may be what you need at this time in your life. It might not even be permanent.
Try to keep an open mind, and talk to a professional. Do what you feel is best for your mental well being right now.
Good luck to you, and I hope you find inner peace.
There are thousands of medications and those in different dosages and combinations. What works for some doesn't for others.
to answer your Pro/Against question, I am pro.