Antidepressants, what's your experience?

[Cornputer]

There are thousands of combinations of meds for depression and you have to work with a qualified psychiatrist and psychologist (usually how it works) and give something a chance to work, then amend either dosage or med or add something to it and keep working on it.<SNIP>

 

I have, personally, given up on antidepressants. To me, finding the right match isn't worth the hassle anymore.

 

I was first put on antidepressants when I was just 13. The side effects were horrendous so me and my psychiatrist decided that I should slowly quit, after that my psychiatrist switched cities and I ended up seeing a new one at 14.

 

Then I was screwed over pretty badly by the meds, I do believe the new psychiatrist was fairly incompetent. I had sleeping problems (sleep obviously IS crucial when overcoming depression), she told me to take both new antidepressants and sleeping pills to help my sleep both at the same time, in the evening. Over time I could barely sleep as antidepressants were there to help "perk up my mind" while sleeping meds made me tired, it was horrendous. So with the third doctor, we switched schedules. I was a complete zombie after 3 months and that, to me, is worse than hurting constantly. I don't want to feel dead. Came off the sleeping pills and switched to some over the counter supplements, sleep improved, but zombie-mode would not end. After 7-9 months in total, I started quitting antidepressants as well.

 

For a while I wouldn't see any doctor/psychiatrist/psychologist, but after some time I tried antidepressants again and the rest of the 3 new meds - first month was horrible, weight gain (added to my anorexic mindset it was hurting me a lot), then emotionless for a while and rarely any memory of that, then the big lows till I couldn't take it anymore.

 

I am happy for anyone who has had luck. But from my (personal!) experience, success stories seem to be fairly rare these days? Which makes me believe in them even less. Many don't believe in the supplement I take now, 5-HTP, but most who have used it have experienced success and so have I. The depression is still there and it will probably always be as I can't remember life without it, but my mind isn't foggy anymore, I can finally find the motivation to simply live and I'm not mourning all the time. It hits me sometimes, but otherwise, I'm okay living with it as long as I can keep managing it!

Edited May 2, 2019 by a LoveShack.org Moderator

[Cornputer]

Try 5-HTP. Available without a prescription, it gives the brain the building blocks to make extra serotonin. Essentially, it is supposed to have a similar but milder effect than a prescription SSRI. It doesn't modify your brain chemistry, or have bad side effects if you have to stop taking it. Some people have digestive issues taking it, though.

 

At least read up on it, and see what you think. If you try it, be aware that it takes several weeks to start working. In my husband's case, about six weeks. He's been taking it for more than three years now.

 

Another 5-HTP lover here! So glad your husband found it, it really helps keep the mind clear and active. Been taking it for about a year myself, someone here on LS brought it up. Whoever that person was, I am incredibly grateful.

Edited May 2, 2019 by a LoveShack.org Moderator

[Cornputer]

Do create a journal where you list things for which you are grateful. You write 3 in the morning & 3 every night. They should vary every day but they don't have to be profound. For example I got a rare deep sleep last night & awoke refreshed; I had a great dream which gave me a solution to a nagging problem & I recently discovered a new flavor of herbal tea which I am enjoying right now. You have to be able to see & appreciate the simple things. Making these lists helps you see the abundance you do have in your life rather than only focusing on the bad negative garbage.

 

Hi D0nnivan,

 

Thanks for the great tip, I journal often and will definitely try what you suggested!

 

Life definitely is a bit weird now, but we all face a lot of crap. I don't want my depression to tear me down whenever I get stressed out or when I'm hurting, which is why I am managing this right now the best way I know how to - I have made a major reset in my life, I take care of my physical body, I spend time with mum and I try live life still! Therapy is something I want to do again, but considering I am away from my hometown most of the time, it is a bit complicated.

 

I definitely won't be all okay any time soon, I worry a lot and still experience quite a bit of anxiety, but I think that is okay for now. I would be concerned if, in current stage of life, I would feel nothing instead. But I do feel a lot of love right now, for my mum especially. That in itself makes me feel at peace.

Edited May 2, 2019 by a LoveShack.org Moderator

[CautiouslyOptimistic]

I tried them on 3 different occasions with terrible results. One time I ended up in the hospital unable to move my extremities. Granted mine was an extreme reaction but I really hate the things.

 

Very interesting. My daughter just got the DNA test approved through insurance so we're going to do that for her. Her issue is anxiety, not depression....like her mama (only worse). She also had bad side effects from the last one we tried (sleep disturbances andsleep paralysis). She also has finally said she wants to start talk therapy - big win. Interesting your results show that no meds would help anyway.

 

Personally, I've been off and on an SSRI for years and now I'm in a long "on" stretch and it helps immensely. I have no plans to go off it. I've done it in combination with talk therapy and without. I believe there will come a time in my life when I stop taking it, but it's certainly not going to be now during peri-menopause lol.

Edited May 2, 2019 by a LoveShack.org Moderator

[CautiouslyOptimistic]

I would be concerned if, in current stage of life, I would feel nothing instead.

 

I agree!!! Worrying about things you probably should be concerned about is a good thing....means you care about succeeding at them. Now, if it gets to the point of panic attacks, then you might want to consider medication.

[Wallysbears]

Talk therapy can be great for individuals who have situational type depression and/or (meaning that it is brought on by circumstances/events and/or one's ability or inability to deal with those things)

 

But for those of us with underlying physical ailments that cause depression/anxiety...all the talk therapy in the world isn't going to address brain chemistry/wiring.

 

I always suggestion to people struggling with anxiety/depression to first talk to their doctor and get a FULL work up done including blood panels, etc.

 

About 8 years ago? I had depression and anxiety SO bad that I was a constant bundle of either nerves or a lump with a total lack of energy. After seeing a doctor and a referral to a specialist, it was discovered I have Hashimoto's AND Grave's diseases. TWO autoimmune thyroid diseases. There is no "cure" for either one. I monitor my thyroid levels through regular bloodwork and adjusting thryoid hormones as necessary. But, I also take a daily antianxiety/depressant to help "level off" the swings.

 

Because the thyroid, for being such a tiny gland, impacts SO much in the body and mind. My levels are slightly off? And my energy and mood will follow.

 

Talk therapy won't do a damn thing for it. Diet, exercise, etc...tried it all. What works best for ME is taking a low maintenance dosage of my daily med and having a back up 'rescue' med on hand for if the anxiety really breaks through.

 

It has been life changing and made me feel like the "old" me again.

 

 

So while some people say that taking meds should be a short term solution, or that one should do talk therapy or supplements instead of meds...it is an individual decision.

 

Most importantly is finding someone that listens to you - be it a doctor, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a naturopath, a nutritionist, etc - and coming up with a plan with them to help you feel better. And adjusting that plan as necessary. It won't likely be overnight, but when you DO find something that works, it will be worth it.

[d0nnivain]

I always suggestion to people struggling with anxiety/depression to first talk to their doctor and get a FULL work up done including blood panels, etc.

 

* * *

So while some people say that taking meds should be a short term solution, or that one should do talk therapy or supplements instead of meds...it is an individual decision.

 

 

Absolutely. A bunch of armatures on a message board is never a valid substitute for quality medical care.

[alphamale]

I take Sertraline (Zoloft) 50mg/day

[Fair]

Anti depressants don't work.

 

You're likely magnesium deficient, (blood tests don't show it), and have other vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

 

I had depression that was worsened by antidepressants and realized on my own the pills weren't working because my body lacked the vitamins and minerals it needed to function properly. I started supplementing and today my depression is pretty much non existent.

 

I advise you to look into supplements. Here's a link... there are better ones out there but this could get you started.

 

https://steptohealth.com/vitamins-minerals-fight-depression/

[Foxhall]

I've actually had a doctor recommend a couple and both made me sick to my stomach. The only one that hasn't made me sick (but can't tell if it's beneficial either) is turmeric.

From what I gather, turmeric while good is not easily absorbed by the body,apparently when combined with ginger it significantly improves its effectiveness. its main uses are reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy bowel function!

Edited May 2, 2019 by a LoveShack.org Moderator

[alphamale]

Anti depressants don't work.

I beg to differ

[Fair]

@alfamale

 

They didn't work for me nor will they for everybody.

 

Anyway, you haven't been depressed because your body is lacking Zoloft.

[alphamale]

@alfamale

 

They didn't work for me nor will they for everybody.

 

Anyway, you haven't been depressed because your body is lacking Zoloft.

 

an old anesthesia drug called Ketamine has been found to instantly relieve depression in some patients who are resistant to all other medications.

[spiderowl]

I have tried antidepressants on and off for many years. I have tried most of them. The ones that are prescribed in the UK as the first options (usually Sertraline or Citalopram) did not work for me or any of the people I know who have tried them. All had to try different ones. I presume they are the first line treatment because they are cheap.

 

Antidepressants have lifted depression somewhat and reduced anxiety, but the side-effects are unpleasant, demoralising, and reduce quality of life in other ways:

 

- vision changes

- dry mouth

- constipation

- reduced physical sensation (a double-edged sword as the worse side-effect is reduced sexual pleasure) - try making love while wearing a wet suit and you get an idea of this particular side-effect. Strangely enough, doctors never mention this when prescribing antidepressants. They seem to think avoiding suicide is more important which I think is a misunderstanding of how a depressed person feels. Being able to enjoy a physical relationship is very important and about quality of life.

- horrible zapping sensations in the head if you forget to take them or stop taking them.

 

It's not all bad though. I take Venlafaxine now. It has the side-effects but it works as a massive painkiller too. This really helps me as I have constant pain otherwise. I am extremely oversensitive to pain and cold - fibromyalgia. I have had painkillers but Venlafaxine has worked really well so far. I doubt I would have been able to continue working without it as I would almost certainly have ended things because of the pain.

 

Life is bearable, just. Sometimes I feel better than others.

 

I have tried CBT (but was too stressed at the time to do it) - it involved too much work, filling in forms and monitoring thoughts, when I was already overwhelmed with work and responsibilities. I have had counselling too. A really good counsellor can be a great help, providing real insight. Just someone to talk to though is not enough. I am convinced there must be better therapies that combine the good aspects of others.

 

One day, we will find out the real causes of depression and then people may have better help. I think it quite possible it is related to digestive issues and that if they are resolved (maybe by the fecal transplants being researched), then there is a chance of cure.

 

I am sure there are many causes for depression and no one answer. Stick to doing what you enjoy and what is relaxing, avoid toxic people and situations. Other than that - and having good friends - I cannot really recommend anything. For me, the painkilling aspect of Venlafaxine has been most helpful.

Edited May 2, 2019 by spiderowl

[thefooloftheyear]

An interesting article just published...The one item that stuck out was that in testing, the drug often didn't do any better than the placebo...What that tells you is that "thinking" you are getting better is all it takes at times..

 

https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/npr/2019/05/02/718744068/how-drug-companies-helped-shape-a-shifting-biological-view-of-mental-illness/

 

I wont judge anyone...If you find they work you have my blessings...I just know that for me, I figured out the stimuli that I need to get me out of a rut...Mostly in the form of exercise and other things like surrounding myself with music I like, hobbies, even in my animals...I also treat myself by frequent encounters/hikes/ etc in nature...Get away from all the noise...Stop monitoring social media, etc...That stuff is a big catalyst for many and one of the main reasons I may never own a smart phone...Yoga, Reiki, and other forms of meditation really has positive effects...I guess all I am saying is at least exhaust all other potential natural treatments first...

 

Ive been clear about my belief that the brain chemistry altering effects of some of these drugs are being tied to a lot of negative behavior we have in society today...I am not calling for any bans, but it needs to be monitored...The drug companies have no interest in making this known so don't count on them to bring it to the table...

 

I feel for all of you and many hopes for a positive well being.

 

TFY

[major_merrick]

Another 5-HTP lover here! So glad your husband found it, it really helps keep the mind clear and active. Been taking it for about a year myself, someone here on LS brought it up. Whoever that person was, I am incredibly grateful.

 

 

I'm glad 5-HTP worked for you too. I wish I could take it. Alas, it is not considered a good idea while pregnant. SSRI's tend not to be either. I have to handle my own issues without any supplemental help.

 

 

 

The noticeable thing about 5-HTP is the lack of major side effects like you get with prescription anti-depressants. The thing most people mention is some digestive issues. My husband has digestive issues at times, but 5-HTP did not make it worse and might have even improved things. I'd recommend that anybody with depression try it before trying prescriptions.

[alphamale]

whats 5 HTP m_m? is it cannabis?

[major_merrick]

Cannabis? Absolutely not! 5-HTP is more like an amino acid - a naturally occurring precursor material for serotonin. In the US, it is available as a supplement over the counter just like a vitamin. Unlike an SSRI which uses chemicals to alter serotonin levels, 5-HTP provides the brain the building blocks to make more serotonin. The brain still does the work, it just gets a helpful boost.

My husband takes 5-HTP at night, because one of the side effects is drowsiness. He also takes St. John's Wort and L-theanine, which lowers his stress levels a bit. Nothing is without side effects. L-theanine massively increases my sex drive, for example - something I don't need! St. John's Wort does nothing for me, but it helps some people. Also has the side effect of making people light sensitive and more susceptible to sunburn.

 

My husband increased his 5-HTP and L-theanine dose last year as an alternative to alcohol and sleeping pills. He also uses melatonin at times. The improvement in his mood has been noticeable - not just to me, but to friends and family. Obviously, it doesn't totally remove issues. PTSD is still PTSD, and depression still has an effect on daily life. But there are reasonable, affordable OTC options available that can help depression. I encourage trying those out before taking the more radical step of using prescription drugs. A bigger hammer is not always a better hammer.

[divegrl]

L-theanine is awesome! One of the best supplements to even the autonomic nervous system.

 

Have a beautiful day!

[TintedChrome]

I hope the OP is still reading this.

 

There's a lot of good and bad advice in this thread.

 

Bad advice are statements that say x never works or y is what you should take.

 

For a long time I've been on a high dose of Parnate. It's one of the few antidepressants that really helps me.

 

For several years in the 1990s and 2000s I took Prozac and it was amazing! It really turned my mood around. Unfortunately the benefit eventually pooped out on me.

 

If there's anything I definitely recommend to anyone, it's aerobic exercise, and cognitive behavioural therapy. Bike riding and yoga. Anything that gets you sore and sweaty.

 

Depending on the nature of your condition, find a therapist or psychiatrist you feel.comfortable with. Don't think you can beat a mental disorder with just willpower or advice from the Internet.

[preraph]

@alfamale

 

They didn't work for me nor will they for everybody.

 

Anyway, you haven't been depressed because your body is lacking Zoloft.

 

Just because your body had a mineral and vitamin deficiency doesn't mean anyone else's does or that antidepressants won't work on them. Plus I will assure you that blood tests will be run by the psychiatrist before meds are prescribed to deal with any such issues.

[The Outlaw]

I've been on three different antidepressants so far, and currently, I'm off them and have been for at least around the 10 year mark. So far, I've been really great overall, but I've had my moments when I'm really low, but they pass as quickly as they started.

[Wallysbears]

Anti depressants don't work.

 

You're likely magnesium deficient, (blood tests don't show it), and have other vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

 

 

Antidepressants DO work for some people and magnesium has a direct impact on blood pressures, etc. It is ill advised for individuals to go and start taking magnesium without having a full physical check up.

 

 

 

 

 

I get that people do not necessarily trust drugs for depression or anxiety. But, would all of you walk around and question what drugs a cancer patient or diabetic is taking for their illness?

 

Mental health is just as impactful as a cancer or a lifelong illness such as diabetes. If someone finds relief in a pharmaceutical...good for them.

[Cornputer]

I hope the OP is still reading this.

 

There's a lot of good and bad advice in this thread.

 

Bad advice are statements that say x never works or y is what you should take.

 

For a long time I've been on a high dose of Parnate. It's one of the few antidepressants that really helps me.

 

For several years in the 1990s and 2000s I took Prozac and it was amazing! It really turned my mood around. Unfortunately the benefit eventually pooped out on me.

 

If there's anything I definitely recommend to anyone, it's aerobic exercise, and cognitive behavioural therapy. Bike riding and yoga. Anything that gets you sore and sweaty.

 

Depending on the nature of your condition, find a therapist or psychiatrist you feel.comfortable with. Don't think you can beat a mental disorder with just willpower or advice from the Internet.

 

Hi, I am definitely still reading! I'm not sure how I feel about antidepressants myself, I have definitely given up on them, but love hearing success stories and receiving other tips on managing depression/anxiety.

 

This thread has been very insightful to me so far, very glad people have taken the time out of their days to reply!

[robaday]

They didn't work for me. I tried for several years. I did actually work incredibly hard on myself though when I came off them and I have accepted that I am slightly depressive by nature but I am functional now, it doesn't impair my life or relationships to a large extent anymore, I have moments of happiness, still probably go into a dark space too often but overall I am ok with that. I guess I accepted myself, and didn't like the numb person I was on anti depressants.