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.

21,814 Members
159,481 Posts
5 Online
Mental Health
/ Depression Support Group

To med or not to med

deleted_user
deleted_user
I'm seeing my doctor today and it just so happens I'm very low. I go through periods where I can cope ok but toda I feel like I'm losing my grip. I was intending to get some stronger sleeing pills because the ones he gave me last time are not working. Now I'm wondering if I should enquire about meds. He knows I'm depressed but didn't prescribe anything for me last time. I think he wanted to wait and see if it was just something that was going to pass. Well it doesn't look like it is. There's something wrong with me because I have never been depressed before and I've had more than my fair share of troubles.
How do you know if meds are the right way and what are the risks?
deleted_user
deleted_user
I wouldn't say med's have 'risk's' as such.

More that different med's have different side affects.

Point is that med's should relieve your symptoms and allow you to function more properly.
deleted_user
deleted_user
You have to stay ontop your game and be a science experiment. Make many Dr.s appts. Which is hard to do when your depressed. It's all trial and error. A conumdrum, a guessing game...
rubyblue
rubyblue
Oh I wish I could give you some good advice, but I can't sorry. I have just been diagnosed as bipolar, so meds are necessary for me. Hope others can share with you though, and good luck with the doc
deleted_user
deleted_user
All I can say is I fought depressionfor decades, self-medicated with alcohol for decades, and it wasn't until I finally went to the doctor and got some meds that things began to staighten outrarely drink any more and rarely get those really deep lows that used to tear me apart.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Have a talk to him, it mite be that you need some different sleepers but if you feel depressed then talk to him because meds can help.
deleted_user
deleted_user
There seems to be such a mixed view on meds. Some people sware by them and other tell horror stories. I really dont know what to do but I know I need to do something because being this low is awful.
rubyblue
rubyblue
I suppose the thing with meds is you can try them and if they don't work for you, you can stop. At least if you try they might make you feel better?
deleted_user
deleted_user
It's the hit/miss part of meds that worries me. What if they give me something that makes me much worse. I can barely keep things together now.
rubyblue
rubyblue
I suppose that is the risk we take with meds and it is why we need to be closely monitored with them. Most side effects from them subside within a few weeks. I suppose you have to weigh it up with how you are feeling now. Talk to your doc about it, they may be able to reassure you
deleted_user
deleted_user
finding the right med to work is trial and error. But I would say get on meds. You can always stop them down the road.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I agree with jloz. Atleast in my own experience. It is trial and error but sometimes the first one you try works great!
I do know this, educate yourself about the different meds and know your body. The doctors don't always know best. I have had to take control of my treatment because they have never tried these meds most likely and they don't have to live with the side effects!
deleted_user
deleted_user
It took 12mth's to get right ones 4 me and when I miss days or run out my head turns to the dark side very quick.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Meds are the right way if depression interferes in your life and with those around you.

I used to be able to manage depression fine without meds. But each time a depression came on..I started having fewer and fewer periods of happy in between them. I slso noticed that the depressions were getting lower and lower.

Sometimes the side effects of depression are far more scary than any you will get from a med.
Posts You May Be Interested In
  • irishwriter

    come unwind in the bp lounge

    Posted by: irishwriter
    Last Reply: kisses2016
    7992
    theatre and I are there already. I'm having a very berry tea with crackers, cheese and cherry tomatoes and she's having a joint with some beer and we're both on really comfy recliners on thick pile carpet. we need some help with the decor if anyone is around??
  • Rizen

    Walk a Day

    Posted by: Rizen
    Last Reply: Secouya
    2565
    I'm trying to exercise daily. I was doing fairly well until I sprained my ankle 2 weeks ago but now I'm getting back on the horse. Today I walked over a mile with my arm weights that are about 22lbs total. I was out of shape and it was hard on my arms. I also did my 30 situps. I'm also going to drink a lot of water and try to eat healthy. I do tend to have a sweet tooth but I'm cutting...