Blindpost 0 #1 February 14, 2006 I checked the local clinics in the area because I'm symptomatic again after thinking I had kicked it (). I think it's time to give up the fight and have to get back on medication after years of being med free -this is a huge failure for me, but I recognize life won't be right if I don't give in and do it. I've called every psychiatrist in my town -nadda. Nobody is accepting new patients. I expand the search. I'm on hold with one agency for 15 minutes before I get to talk to someone and he tells me they are 6 weeks out minimum for what they call 'in take', which then means you have to wait however many more weeks before actually seeing a doctor. He says all I can do is call my insurance company. They tell me to check their website, that only lists doctors...that I have already called. Nothing? Really? Someone in this condition needs to wait months prior to getting some help? I just can't believe it. I wouldn't categorize myself as suicidal, but I guess that's what it takes to get help here. Has anyone had to deal with this? WTF...the guy on the phone told me it would be that long if I wanted 'counseling' with my meds. -Meaning I could get a prescription sooner? Seriously, someone is just going to throw you on an anti-depressant without counseling? Who in the hell does this?? Does anyone have any ideas??? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lindercles 0 #2 February 14, 2006 Whiskey. You don't need a prescription and it works faster. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Mike111 0 #3 February 14, 2006 Remember there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Youve kicked it before.. so can do it again!!! But hang in there.... it will get better. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
micro 0 #4 February 14, 2006 pm coming... I miss Lee. And JP. And Chris. And... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mailin 0 #5 February 14, 2006 If there is a local 'help line' you can call that and explain your situation to them, and they may be able to help. My mother has used that avenue before when she couldn't get appointments. Please don't look at it as a failure - clinical depression is an illness that requires life long care, its not something you can just kick. I've watched my mother fight with it for years, successfully (she's bipolar (among other things), so its slightly different) - so you can too! Best of luck, JenArianna Frances Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RhondaLea 4 #6 February 14, 2006 Apparently you're seen an ND for your thyroid; you need to see an endocrinologist. My endo prescribed Wellbutrin for me until the thyroxine started working and my T4, T3 and TSH levels were normal. It was remarkable the difference it made. Depression is a very common symptom of thyroid disease. And it's winter, which makes it worse, because most people need more thyroxine in winter, but don't get it. rl Edited to add: If the ND will prescribe antidepressant medication, then just do that. Also, unless you have other issues, you don't need talk therapy, you just need your neurotransmitters to balance.If you don't know where you're going, you should know where you came from. Gullah Proverb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Icon134 0 #7 February 14, 2006 QuoteWhiskey. You don't need a prescription and it works faster. Ok, I realize this is a joke... but take it from me (as I have experience in this arena...) Drinking Is Never A Good Idea when depressed, sad, etc... I for one am a very happy go lucky, albiet quirky drunk, in the heat of the moment during the prime of the party... but what people don't see is the effects of comming down off of the drunken state when the depressant (i.e. you're choice of booze) finally takes effect. This is not a funny joke...Livin' on the Edge... sleeping with my rigger's wife... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Blindpost 0 #8 February 14, 2006 QuoteIf there is a local 'help line' you can call that and explain your situation to them, and they may be able to help. My mother has used that avenue before when she couldn't get appointments. I'll check around and see if I can find anything. Phone book didn't offer anything, but I'll keep looking. Thanks Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Rebecca 0 #9 February 14, 2006 QuoteQuoteWhiskey. You don't need a prescription and it works faster. Ok, I realize this is a joke... but take it from me (as I have experience in this arena...) Drinking Is Never A Good Idea when depressed, sad, etc... I for one am a very happy go lucky, albiet quirky drunk, in the heat of the moment during the prime of the party... but what people don't see is the effects of comming down off of the drunken state when the depressant (i.e. you're choice of booze) finally takes effect. This is not a funny joke... Ditto. you've got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel loquacious?' -- well do you, punk? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lindsey 0 #10 February 14, 2006 Your family doctor can prescribe an antidepressant and refer you to a therapist. That might be a worthwhile route. Peace~ linz-- A conservative is just a liberal who's been mugged. A liberal is just a conservative who's been to jail Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Blindpost 0 #11 February 14, 2006 QuoteApparently you're seen an ND for your thyroid; you need to see an endocrinologist. My endo prescribed Wellbutrin for me until the thyroxine started working and my T4, T3 and TSH levels were normal. It was remarkable the difference it made. Depression is a very common symptom of thyroid disease. And it's winter, which makes it worse, because most people need more thyroxine in winter, but don't get it. rl Edited to add: If the ND will prescribe antidepressant medication, then just do that. Also, unless you have other issues, you don't need talk therapy, you just need your neurotransmitters to balance. I called the endocrinologist that is on my insurance...he said "if your T4 is fine (that's all they measure) what do you want me to do?" I'll call my ND although he's kind of flighty. Maybe he will give me a prescrip and I can figure this out. As for the talking therapy thing...well, I have nobody to talk to, and the internet is great for ideas, but I need somebody face to face that can help me pick through these issues. I lead an extremely complicated life. Speaking of which, I'm just reading this document right now -if it's found out that I'm on any anti-depressants, my career is over quite literally. It's a government thing that I can't get into, but it just adds to the hell that has become life. Maybe I'll try some St. John's Wort first. It's the only thing that won't show up on a urinalysis or in my med records. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
thegreekone 0 #12 February 14, 2006 -this is a huge failure for me, but I recognize life won't be right if I don't give in and do it. Quote I agree with RL about minding your Ps and Qs and making sure you covered all the bases. And since that is impossible to do on your own, I can hardly see how that can be construed as a failure. If anything, you are doing a wonderful job of addressing things while you still have that ability. Who knows how small a window that could end up being, ay know? Congrats on putting one foot in front of the other. Best wishes and good luck. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Michele 1 #13 February 14, 2006 Hi, BP. Oh well, see, there is help. You've just got to play with the rulebook they give you. Since an SSRI will take up to 6 weeks to work, go ahead and get it from your MD. Get onto the waiting list for counseling, and get that ball rolling, too. You beat it before, you can do it again. Brain chemistry can get really wonky and take some meds to get it back; talk therapy will help you learn new skills on coping with both Depression as well as life's little surprises which can instigate a brain chemistry imbalance. Because of my long term work in talk therapy, I haven't needed to see a psychiatrist in years. I have my regular GP give me my scrip, and when I go get a refill (generally once in 90 days or so), we talk and he checks in on me. I'm so very familiar with my illness that I can see an episode coming, and get in to either adjust the meds or get a "quickie" from the counselor on call...but my GP understands that cash is tight, and that I can't afford both meds (over $120 per month) as well as a counselor on a regular basis. Work within the system. Use the tools available to you. Start with your GP, and then add the counseling. Is this the best way? Hell no...but if it's the only way, do it. Depression is a cyclic illness; you are not a failure because you are having an episode. You are so far ahead of the game because you both see it, realize it, and are willing to get help...so I see this as a win. If a diabetic had an extreme blood sugar episode, would you really consider them a failure or simply accept that their illness has these things which go on, and there's ways to get it handled...I view depression the same way...no failure there...(although I understand how it can feel that way...it really isn't. I promise you that. You're not a failure, and this episode is not a failure. It really is a win.) Don't suffer needlessly. Don't wait. Depression often gets far worse before it gets better, and you are entering a dangerous time. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out to someone when it gets really, really tough...I've made the offer to many people before, and some have taken me up on it; I'm here. I will listen. I totally understand the illness. And while I can't fix the issues you're facing, I can wholeheartedly support you in getting well. Ciels- Michele ~Do Angels keep the dreams we seek While our hearts lie bleeding?~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SkyDekker 1,465 #14 February 14, 2006 you can say that so much betetr than I ever could.....but it is certainly all very true!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites RhondaLea 4 #15 February 14, 2006 QuoteI called the endocrinologist that is on my insurance...he said "if your T4 is fine (that's all they measure) what do you want me to do?" As you already know, the endo is an idiot. You need to have your T3 looked at. That's the usual reason for depression. QuoteMaybe I'll try some St. John's Wort first. It's the only thing that won't show up on a urinalysis or in my med records. It could work. I just don't like St. John's Wort. I highly recommend you post your question and your history to the usenet group, alt.support.thyroid. Be as thorough as you can in explaining your situation. I also have other resources you can try if that doesn't help. In the meantime, try to get at least 1/2 hour of sunlight a day, stay as warm as possible, and eat a little extra protein. Also try taking selenium for a few weeks to see if that helps. rlIf you don't know where you're going, you should know where you came from. Gullah Proverb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites FallinWoman 1 #16 February 14, 2006 I am goign to repeat what others have said.....go to your GP. I initially got my anitdepressant script from my neurologist. Since I no longer see him regularly, and because I got worse as my father was dying, I started to see a psychiatrist. That was not covered by insurance. Now my GP writes the script whenever I need a refill. ~Anne I'm a Doll!!!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites DrewEckhardt 0 #17 February 14, 2006 Quote I wouldn't categorize myself as suicidal, but I guess that's what it takes to get help here. Has anyone had to deal with this? WTF...the guy on the phone told me it would be that long if I wanted 'counseling' with my meds. -Meaning I could get a prescription sooner? Seriously, someone is just going to throw you on an anti-depressant without counseling? Who in the hell does this?? Does anyone have any ideas??? On-line pharmacies will forward prescription requests to MDs and fill them within 24 hours, the downside being they won't take insurance. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Rdy2skydive 0 #18 February 15, 2006 Hi BP, Sorry to hear you're having such a tough time - I can relate to what you're going through. It seems that you have some thyroid issues. While I don't know your current situation, I can tell you that I'm hypothyroid due to thyroid cancer and total thryoid removal 14 years ago when I was 24. I was on a high dose of Levoxyl for years but suffered terribly from depression. While I wasn't suicidal, I felt very lost and no hope. My primary doctor tried to help but never linked this to my condition - especially since my thryoid levels were always "fine." It wasn't until four years ago when my surgeon suggested my doctor and I do some research on combining T3 (cytomel) with my Levoxyl. I did a lot of research and fortunately my doc was open to it. The addition of cytomel has changed my life. My depression lifted completely within a few months and I actually started to enjoy living. I hope you don't mind if I make a few suggestions based on my experience: 1. Find a doctor who will be your partner in your treatment. Even if you have to go out of network, it really is worth it. 2. Have your doctor test your T3 as well as T4. It's just another box on the sheet to check off. It's no big deal. 3. Have your doctor give you a copy of your bloodwork results. This is key. It's not enough for your doctor to say everything is 'okay.' Find out what the numbers are and learn as much as you can so you can understand what they mean. 4. Research your illness. A great website was mentioned by RL. Learn as much as possible and talk to your doctor. Bring info with you. Some doctors are put off by this - find one who is willing to work with you. The more knowledge you have, the more input you can have in your treatment. 5. Certain factors like the weather changes or stress really can affect your thyroid levels. Even the smallest fluctuations can have profound effects. It's important to be checked at least 1 or 2x a year and have meds adjusted if necessary. 6. There's a great book by Mary Shomon on hypothyroidism. Great advice on docs, diet, and taking meds to get the most out of them. 7. Also be aware that the addition of certain antidepressants such as Paxil, with a thyroid condition, can exacerbate other symptoms. Another thing to research too. I wish you good health soon. Lisa Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites RhondaLea 4 #19 February 15, 2006 Mary Shomon was one of the early members of AST. She has a website at about.com, and you can sign up for a regular newsletter. http://thyroid.about.com/ There are many resources out there for thyroid and depression because it's such a common cause of depression--totally biochemical, having nothing to do with life events. Your life can be otherwise perfect, and if you have a thyroid problem, you may become depressed anyway. Talk therapy will not fix depression caused by a bad thyroid. Note to Lisa, I didn't know that about Paxil. The first thing my doctor tried was Zoloft, which didn't work well for me. On Wellbutrin, however, I did great. rlIf you don't know where you're going, you should know where you came from. Gullah Proverb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Thunderbow 1 #20 February 15, 2006 I'm in the same situation. Winter and it starts to show up now and then. Didn't go to work until 1:30 on Monday after a xanax and a long nap. If you can muster up the will power, maybe some excersize will help for now. At least you are looking for help. Keep on it.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Lord, let me be the person my dog thinks I am. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Lindsey 0 #21 February 15, 2006 As bad as the tanning bed is for your skin, it does wonders for my mood in the winter time. Just a thought that I thunk... Peace~ linz-- A conservative is just a liberal who's been mugged. A liberal is just a conservative who's been to jail Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites ExAFO 0 #22 February 15, 2006 Paxil-live it, love it.Illinois needs a CCW Law. NOW. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites tbrown 26 #23 February 15, 2006 QuoteWhiskey. You don't need a prescription and it works faster. No, hey this is depression we're talking about. Alcohol does NOT help and it isn't even funny. But in response to Lindercles, there's no shame in having to go back on meds. When I go off meds I slide back into the deep dark hole myself. Horrible place to live. So I go back on the meds and like a good Scout I try to get some counseling. But once the meds start to work, I can't think of a fucking thing to tell the counselor anymore and I just get another "crazy" mark on my insurance records. My personal conclusion is that depression simply IS a chemical imbalance. For me Lexapro does wonders AND I can still get a good woody with the wife, so life is good. These people who push this "just say no to drugs" agenda are assholes. Drugs are GOOD for us, they relieve all kinds of pain and disease. You can bet the "just say no" brigade will want pure heroin if they ever have to die of cancer. See your doctor, find the RIGHT med (maybe your last med wasn't the right one for you), and then if you want to spar with a shrink, go for that too. Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Muenkel 0 #24 February 15, 2006 Have you actually been diagnosed with depression in the past? If so, was it diagnosed by a Psychiatrist? If it was, why can't you contact the Psychiatrist that diagnosed you? If you haven't been formally diagnosed as having depression, is it possible you suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or a thyroid condition as others mentioned? Sorry for all the questions, it just seems to me that it doesn't all add up and I want you to get the help you need asap. As you probably know, anti-depressants do take several weeks to make a difference. If you are in crisis now, you should be looked at by your GP right away. I don't believe a GP is going to turn you away in this condition as long as you are willing to work with him/her in getting the proper diagnosis and treatment. As for the job situation, I'm surprised to hear that you are not allowed to take an anti-depressant. It almost sounds discriminatory to me. Bottom line, take care of your health first...job second. I hope you're feeling better soon. Chris This most certainly is not a failure on your part. You are dealing with chemicals that are out of whack in your system. _________________________________________ Chris Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Blindpost 0 #25 February 15, 2006 QuoteHave you actually been diagnosed with depression in the past? If so, was it diagnosed by a Psychiatrist? If it was, why can't you contact the Psychiatrist that diagnosed you? I doubt he's practicing any more; the original diagnosis came as a teenager more than 16 years ago after a suicide attempt (thank God I think my med records were 'lost' as nobody knows about this...) It was a 'typical' teenager suicide try I think...swallowed about 20 sleeping pills then went to find help because I thought about what it would do to my family. -The relapse I had about 5-6 years ago I saw a doc in the city that is not there any longer. QuoteAs for the job situation, I'm surprised to hear that you are not allowed to take an anti-depressant. It almost sounds discriminatory to me. It's the government and it's a 'life-entrusting' position, that's all I'll say about that. QuoteThis most certainly is not a failure on your part. You are dealing with chemicals that are out of whack in your system. Thank you, thanks to everyone for some light at the end of the tunnel. I will most definitely try some St. John's Wort and some Omega 3, and some other vitamins and some sunshine. I will get through this, but as of today, I have resolved to TRY and push through it without the meds. It's not only my livelihood, my 'job' was my life's ambition too. I cannot let that walk away. Imagine having migraines let's say...and needing a prescrip for something like Zomig. -But the FAA will not let a skydiver jump if they are on Zomig or have been on Zomig in the previous 6 months. What would you do? This is the same kind of daily pain, and I am forced to make the same types of choices. I will conquer this, and I will not give up my life that I have worked hard to build to do it. Thanks Michelle and Rhonda and Rdy and everyone else who have pointed to newsgroups and websites. I will win because I will educate myself on HOW to win. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Join the conversation You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account. Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible. Reply to this topic... × Pasted as rich text. Paste as plain text instead Only 75 emoji are allowed. × Your link has been automatically embedded. Display as a link instead × Your previous content has been restored. Clear editor × You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL. Insert image from URL × Desktop Tablet Phone Submit Reply 0
Michele 1 #13 February 14, 2006 Hi, BP. Oh well, see, there is help. You've just got to play with the rulebook they give you. Since an SSRI will take up to 6 weeks to work, go ahead and get it from your MD. Get onto the waiting list for counseling, and get that ball rolling, too. You beat it before, you can do it again. Brain chemistry can get really wonky and take some meds to get it back; talk therapy will help you learn new skills on coping with both Depression as well as life's little surprises which can instigate a brain chemistry imbalance. Because of my long term work in talk therapy, I haven't needed to see a psychiatrist in years. I have my regular GP give me my scrip, and when I go get a refill (generally once in 90 days or so), we talk and he checks in on me. I'm so very familiar with my illness that I can see an episode coming, and get in to either adjust the meds or get a "quickie" from the counselor on call...but my GP understands that cash is tight, and that I can't afford both meds (over $120 per month) as well as a counselor on a regular basis. Work within the system. Use the tools available to you. Start with your GP, and then add the counseling. Is this the best way? Hell no...but if it's the only way, do it. Depression is a cyclic illness; you are not a failure because you are having an episode. You are so far ahead of the game because you both see it, realize it, and are willing to get help...so I see this as a win. If a diabetic had an extreme blood sugar episode, would you really consider them a failure or simply accept that their illness has these things which go on, and there's ways to get it handled...I view depression the same way...no failure there...(although I understand how it can feel that way...it really isn't. I promise you that. You're not a failure, and this episode is not a failure. It really is a win.) Don't suffer needlessly. Don't wait. Depression often gets far worse before it gets better, and you are entering a dangerous time. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out to someone when it gets really, really tough...I've made the offer to many people before, and some have taken me up on it; I'm here. I will listen. I totally understand the illness. And while I can't fix the issues you're facing, I can wholeheartedly support you in getting well. Ciels- Michele ~Do Angels keep the dreams we seek While our hearts lie bleeding?~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkyDekker 1,465 #14 February 14, 2006 you can say that so much betetr than I ever could.....but it is certainly all very true!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RhondaLea 4 #15 February 14, 2006 QuoteI called the endocrinologist that is on my insurance...he said "if your T4 is fine (that's all they measure) what do you want me to do?" As you already know, the endo is an idiot. You need to have your T3 looked at. That's the usual reason for depression. QuoteMaybe I'll try some St. John's Wort first. It's the only thing that won't show up on a urinalysis or in my med records. It could work. I just don't like St. John's Wort. I highly recommend you post your question and your history to the usenet group, alt.support.thyroid. Be as thorough as you can in explaining your situation. I also have other resources you can try if that doesn't help. In the meantime, try to get at least 1/2 hour of sunlight a day, stay as warm as possible, and eat a little extra protein. Also try taking selenium for a few weeks to see if that helps. rlIf you don't know where you're going, you should know where you came from. Gullah Proverb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
FallinWoman 1 #16 February 14, 2006 I am goign to repeat what others have said.....go to your GP. I initially got my anitdepressant script from my neurologist. Since I no longer see him regularly, and because I got worse as my father was dying, I started to see a psychiatrist. That was not covered by insurance. Now my GP writes the script whenever I need a refill. ~Anne I'm a Doll!!!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DrewEckhardt 0 #17 February 14, 2006 Quote I wouldn't categorize myself as suicidal, but I guess that's what it takes to get help here. Has anyone had to deal with this? WTF...the guy on the phone told me it would be that long if I wanted 'counseling' with my meds. -Meaning I could get a prescription sooner? Seriously, someone is just going to throw you on an anti-depressant without counseling? Who in the hell does this?? Does anyone have any ideas??? On-line pharmacies will forward prescription requests to MDs and fill them within 24 hours, the downside being they won't take insurance. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Rdy2skydive 0 #18 February 15, 2006 Hi BP, Sorry to hear you're having such a tough time - I can relate to what you're going through. It seems that you have some thyroid issues. While I don't know your current situation, I can tell you that I'm hypothyroid due to thyroid cancer and total thryoid removal 14 years ago when I was 24. I was on a high dose of Levoxyl for years but suffered terribly from depression. While I wasn't suicidal, I felt very lost and no hope. My primary doctor tried to help but never linked this to my condition - especially since my thryoid levels were always "fine." It wasn't until four years ago when my surgeon suggested my doctor and I do some research on combining T3 (cytomel) with my Levoxyl. I did a lot of research and fortunately my doc was open to it. The addition of cytomel has changed my life. My depression lifted completely within a few months and I actually started to enjoy living. I hope you don't mind if I make a few suggestions based on my experience: 1. Find a doctor who will be your partner in your treatment. Even if you have to go out of network, it really is worth it. 2. Have your doctor test your T3 as well as T4. It's just another box on the sheet to check off. It's no big deal. 3. Have your doctor give you a copy of your bloodwork results. This is key. It's not enough for your doctor to say everything is 'okay.' Find out what the numbers are and learn as much as you can so you can understand what they mean. 4. Research your illness. A great website was mentioned by RL. Learn as much as possible and talk to your doctor. Bring info with you. Some doctors are put off by this - find one who is willing to work with you. The more knowledge you have, the more input you can have in your treatment. 5. Certain factors like the weather changes or stress really can affect your thyroid levels. Even the smallest fluctuations can have profound effects. It's important to be checked at least 1 or 2x a year and have meds adjusted if necessary. 6. There's a great book by Mary Shomon on hypothyroidism. Great advice on docs, diet, and taking meds to get the most out of them. 7. Also be aware that the addition of certain antidepressants such as Paxil, with a thyroid condition, can exacerbate other symptoms. Another thing to research too. I wish you good health soon. Lisa Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RhondaLea 4 #19 February 15, 2006 Mary Shomon was one of the early members of AST. She has a website at about.com, and you can sign up for a regular newsletter. http://thyroid.about.com/ There are many resources out there for thyroid and depression because it's such a common cause of depression--totally biochemical, having nothing to do with life events. Your life can be otherwise perfect, and if you have a thyroid problem, you may become depressed anyway. Talk therapy will not fix depression caused by a bad thyroid. Note to Lisa, I didn't know that about Paxil. The first thing my doctor tried was Zoloft, which didn't work well for me. On Wellbutrin, however, I did great. rlIf you don't know where you're going, you should know where you came from. Gullah Proverb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Thunderbow 1 #20 February 15, 2006 I'm in the same situation. Winter and it starts to show up now and then. Didn't go to work until 1:30 on Monday after a xanax and a long nap. If you can muster up the will power, maybe some excersize will help for now. At least you are looking for help. Keep on it.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Lord, let me be the person my dog thinks I am. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lindsey 0 #21 February 15, 2006 As bad as the tanning bed is for your skin, it does wonders for my mood in the winter time. Just a thought that I thunk... Peace~ linz-- A conservative is just a liberal who's been mugged. A liberal is just a conservative who's been to jail Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ExAFO 0 #22 February 15, 2006 Paxil-live it, love it.Illinois needs a CCW Law. NOW. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tbrown 26 #23 February 15, 2006 QuoteWhiskey. You don't need a prescription and it works faster. No, hey this is depression we're talking about. Alcohol does NOT help and it isn't even funny. But in response to Lindercles, there's no shame in having to go back on meds. When I go off meds I slide back into the deep dark hole myself. Horrible place to live. So I go back on the meds and like a good Scout I try to get some counseling. But once the meds start to work, I can't think of a fucking thing to tell the counselor anymore and I just get another "crazy" mark on my insurance records. My personal conclusion is that depression simply IS a chemical imbalance. For me Lexapro does wonders AND I can still get a good woody with the wife, so life is good. These people who push this "just say no to drugs" agenda are assholes. Drugs are GOOD for us, they relieve all kinds of pain and disease. You can bet the "just say no" brigade will want pure heroin if they ever have to die of cancer. See your doctor, find the RIGHT med (maybe your last med wasn't the right one for you), and then if you want to spar with a shrink, go for that too. Your humble servant.....Professor Gravity ! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Muenkel 0 #24 February 15, 2006 Have you actually been diagnosed with depression in the past? If so, was it diagnosed by a Psychiatrist? If it was, why can't you contact the Psychiatrist that diagnosed you? If you haven't been formally diagnosed as having depression, is it possible you suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or a thyroid condition as others mentioned? Sorry for all the questions, it just seems to me that it doesn't all add up and I want you to get the help you need asap. As you probably know, anti-depressants do take several weeks to make a difference. If you are in crisis now, you should be looked at by your GP right away. I don't believe a GP is going to turn you away in this condition as long as you are willing to work with him/her in getting the proper diagnosis and treatment. As for the job situation, I'm surprised to hear that you are not allowed to take an anti-depressant. It almost sounds discriminatory to me. Bottom line, take care of your health first...job second. I hope you're feeling better soon. Chris This most certainly is not a failure on your part. You are dealing with chemicals that are out of whack in your system. _________________________________________ Chris Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Blindpost 0 #25 February 15, 2006 QuoteHave you actually been diagnosed with depression in the past? If so, was it diagnosed by a Psychiatrist? If it was, why can't you contact the Psychiatrist that diagnosed you? I doubt he's practicing any more; the original diagnosis came as a teenager more than 16 years ago after a suicide attempt (thank God I think my med records were 'lost' as nobody knows about this...) It was a 'typical' teenager suicide try I think...swallowed about 20 sleeping pills then went to find help because I thought about what it would do to my family. -The relapse I had about 5-6 years ago I saw a doc in the city that is not there any longer. QuoteAs for the job situation, I'm surprised to hear that you are not allowed to take an anti-depressant. It almost sounds discriminatory to me. It's the government and it's a 'life-entrusting' position, that's all I'll say about that. QuoteThis most certainly is not a failure on your part. You are dealing with chemicals that are out of whack in your system. Thank you, thanks to everyone for some light at the end of the tunnel. I will most definitely try some St. John's Wort and some Omega 3, and some other vitamins and some sunshine. I will get through this, but as of today, I have resolved to TRY and push through it without the meds. It's not only my livelihood, my 'job' was my life's ambition too. I cannot let that walk away. Imagine having migraines let's say...and needing a prescrip for something like Zomig. -But the FAA will not let a skydiver jump if they are on Zomig or have been on Zomig in the previous 6 months. What would you do? This is the same kind of daily pain, and I am forced to make the same types of choices. I will conquer this, and I will not give up my life that I have worked hard to build to do it. Thanks Michelle and Rhonda and Rdy and everyone else who have pointed to newsgroups and websites. I will win because I will educate myself on HOW to win. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
