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.
I am a 34 year old male. I have been suffering from depression and anxiety for a few years. I am seeing a therapist and on paxil, wellbutrin and will be starting lamactil. I have never experienced "feeling good" on the meds, I am just cruising along, so so. Due to a combo of stress and trying a different med, I hit bottom emotionally and am still trying to recover. My questions are: on meds, do you ever get to a point where you say "now I know what it feels like to be happy"? Or will life always be just so so? AND If you feel the meds aren't working how long do you stay on a med before you need your doctor to prescribe something different? I'd really appreciate any feedback. Thanks.
deleted_user
Meds are a coping mechanism, nothing more. The actual recovery is down to you. It will be hard work, but it will be worth every second of effort you put in. Exercise, talking, therapy, diet all have their part to play. Good luck, and you're in the right place if you do need to talk.
deleted_user
yes, but not for long. so so is not bad either tho. x
deleted_user
meds only play approx 15% of the wellbeing. They allow your system to stabilise in order for you to be able to cope more rationally with stressors etc. But on saying that you still need to learn coping mechanisms to be able to put them into place when a stressful situation arises and that's why it is recommended that both meds and therapy are done together
deleted_user
Also, 70% of people on meds alone will experience a relapse. Most doctors will just change the medication, and start over. So, it's good that you are coupling it with therapy, and now here talking with a support community.
deleted_user
I think that really depends on the individual and the degree of depression. I never have months of feeling perfectly 'happy' it's something that I have to work on. Meds: can take a good 10 -12 weeks to really start to work, again it depends what you take. I usually give them about 4 months and then change them. )I've tried loads over the years) None have lifted me right out of depression. I do have times when it doesn't burden me too much. Unfortunately anxiety likes to jump in it's place when it does receed. I have had nearly 34 years of it. Through all that I had my children, a fabulous job, saw the world. Depression is in my brain and that's only part of me.
deleted_user
I'd give the meds a couple of months and then ask for higher dose or change....As the others say - the meds just help you get through it (and up from the bottom....) The actually getting better has to be a combination of other factors....Love M x
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