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 everyone,
As a brief background - I've suffered from depression, panic disorder w/ agoraphobia, and OCD for at least 12 years. I began medication and therapy a year ago. About two months ago, I abruptly stopped taking the medication. I had gained 30lbs due to the prescriptions, and it had become distressing enough that I snapped and wouldn't take them anymore.
Now, the return of the depression and symptoms of the anxiety disorders has made losing the upsetting weight seemingly impossible, despite exercise and removing refined sugar from my diet. After a very rough time "detoxing" from the medication (during which I experienced my first truly suicidal thoughts - one of the scariest things I've ever experienced), it's becoming clear that I can't function without them. I know that I'm spiraling, and I'm stuck now between hating my body (there's a great deal of self-loathing happening) and feeling crazy, and going back on the medications, which could make me feel less depressed and out of control but might restart my substantial weight gain, which would be its own huge challenge.
What would you do? I feel so stuck, and while I have supportive friends and family, no one actually understands or knows how to help me.
As a brief background - I've suffered from depression, panic disorder w/ agoraphobia, and OCD for at least 12 years. I began medication and therapy a year ago. About two months ago, I abruptly stopped taking the medication. I had gained 30lbs due to the prescriptions, and it had become distressing enough that I snapped and wouldn't take them anymore.
Now, the return of the depression and symptoms of the anxiety disorders has made losing the upsetting weight seemingly impossible, despite exercise and removing refined sugar from my diet. After a very rough time "detoxing" from the medication (during which I experienced my first truly suicidal thoughts - one of the scariest things I've ever experienced), it's becoming clear that I can't function without them. I know that I'm spiraling, and I'm stuck now between hating my body (there's a great deal of self-loathing happening) and feeling crazy, and going back on the medications, which could make me feel less depressed and out of control but might restart my substantial weight gain, which would be its own huge challenge.
What would you do? I feel so stuck, and while I have supportive friends and family, no one actually understands or knows how to help me.
That's just what I would do.
Also, do keep posting on here, hopefully we can keep you afloat until you find something (and after!)...big hugs to ya
I suppose you might have to go back on the meds if you just can't find any other way.
Two months of withdrawal hell must seem like a very long time, but it may take quite a bit longer to detox from both mentally and physically.
Like Summer suggested I would try therapy first. Also watch your diet and exercise routine like a hawk.
Giving up refined sugar is good but it will prolly take more than that.
You don't have to be skinny to be sexy, or beautiful. Beauty is the size of your heart, not the size of your jeans. Author Unknown.
Hugs Gramybear
I'm also been extremely sensitive to every prescription I've tried, which is what makes me scared of trying a new one. But my primary doctor suggested that I talk to my psychiatrist about Wellbutrin. Everything just feels like such an insurmountable task... :-\