Hi,

I'm currently going through a very bad patch of depression and can't seem to shake it and now it's getting the point where I don't want to go to work and/or socialise with anyone. I suffered from depression previously, but this is the first serious case I've had for a long while and now I'm becoming a bit concerned.

Anyone else out there suffering or suffered from depression, if so, how did you tackle it etc.. I do lots of exercise, need to really, as I'm training for London Marathon and that does nothing to lift my mood. Also, I don't take anti depressants and never will. I don't want to become dependant on a chemically enduced state of happiness.

Any ideas most welcome.

DD

I go through frequent and deep bouts of dark depression and have done since the death of my son. I dont want to take happy pills either, but there comes a time when you have no option other than to go to a doctor. I havent done that yet but I can see it in my near future. When it hits, it tends to hit harder each time.

I hope you resolve this quickly, its horrible, isnt it.

I had a spell of clinical depression in teh late 1990s, and after various attempts to get myself 'sorted' I agreed to a 3 month course of anti-depressants (Prozac) with my GP.

They lifted my mood enough to allow me to get a handle on my life, and gaining that control again allowed me to sort myself out. While I was depressed, I didn't have the required 'get up and go', and the Prozac allowed me to get out of that.

After 3 months I stopped taking them - under guidance from my GP - and have never needed them again.

My attitude was that if I'd broken a leg, I'd expect to need support and treatment until it healed, but then I could throw the crutches away.

This was EXACTLY the approach I took for this episode. I carried on the lifestyle changes and such that I'd started whilst on the drugs, and that has been the major shift in my life. But had I not taken the meds, I doubt I would have had the get up and go to do anything.

If it's not your cup of tea, so be it; just don't make yousrelf suffer. It isn't weak to accept a short term course of medication.

First of all sorry to hear that you've been depressed as of late. It's often a case of trying to find what is the root, or roots, of the problems and then breaking them down to look at them rationally to see what can be done about them.

You might find some help in talking to a counsellor and unless you want to go privately and pay, you'll have to go to a GP first. There are also a number of charities out there who you could contact and hopefully they would be able to help you.

Finally, here is a website with some general information on depression - http://www.guide-to-depression.com/ - hopefully you will able to find something that is of some use to you.

I suffer pretty bad myself but am good at hiding it from others. Was on anti-deprssants at one stage but they made me worse cos could'nt handle the thought of relying on something to change the way I was meant to be especially as there is no particular reason for my mental condition though i doi understand that for sopme peopel anti-depressants do help. i know its just part of my makeup now so have accepted it although its horrendos sometimes. I know its hard to get out sometimes but I find it really helps just seeing friends and getting out the house just as a diversion but sometimes don't feel liek coming back which can be a problem. I have looked on forums etc and there are always peopel who are much worse off so putting things into perspective can help too.
People are always saying to me, you should help yourself but they don't understand that its so hard to get that get up and go.
I went to the doctors the other day (cos am physically ill too at the mo) and told her but to be honest it just made me feel worse cos she asked me questions like "do you think you'd be better off dead?". that ****** me off actually. for starters Im an educated human being, im not selfish enough, am not 15 years old and thats just a stupid question. I felt like saying "we'd all be better off dead"

I agree with JoeP, 100%. People forget that depression isn't just an emotional problem, but a biochemical problem, and that's what anti-depressants sort out. Then you're far more able to deal with all the emotional side of it. If you had a headache, you'd take tablets, right?

The other thing is that anti-depressants have really moved on, and dependence on them is much less than it used to be. I take sertraline, it suits me, although I have tried others and it took a little while to get the right one. One thing they do is help with the distrupted sleep patterns, which in turn makes it easier to cope with the day to day stuff.

Anyway, my thoughts are with you DD. I hope things get better soon and the colour comes back into your world.

These may sound simplistic, but here goes.

Try and get your face into the daylight for a few minutes each day. Build up as the days get longer and make a point of popping out as soon as the sun shines.

Every night, think of one thing in your life for which you are grateful, and add to it each night, counting in the things that you said the night before.

Take three deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth before you get out of bed every day.

Increase your water intake. We are all like flowers, and wilt when we don't have enough water. Dehydration is not sudden, and the body can become tolerant to low levels of hydration, so do yourself and favour, perk yourself up and drink some more water.

A combination of antidepressants (citalopram) and a counsellor kicked me out a hideous eight-year stretch of depression in about four months. Talking to the man was what got me out of it but I would never have gone there in the first place were it not for the pills. They do not cure depression, nor are they meant to - they alleviate the symptoms, so you can deal with the causes rationally. I don't think anyone feels happy all the time on them, I certainly didn't, but boy did they work, espescially combined with something else.

I also found the Overcoming... series of books (http://http://www.amazon.co.uk/Overcoming-Mood-Swings-Jan-Scott/sim/1841190179/2/ref=pd_sexpl_esi/202-7294663-3948624) helpful, they're not for everyone though, and it takes a real effort to work through them when you're feeling low, but if you can do that, you're halfway there :)

By removing yourself from that scenario. I agree with finding the root cause of the problem. I myself was depressed from my job, a couple of years back. I think a few of us in the office did the same. Whereas one girl went to the Dr, myself, and another guy didn't. Low morale, and fear of instable financial securities just throws us, off our course.

Someone started some exercise regime in the office, and a few of us took this up. It did changed the scenario somewhat, and we moved our focus onto the running, than on our situation.

A friend is recently going through a similar stage of angst, frustration, and low morale in her job too. I think she is wise to get herself out of the situation, and not to affect her mental-well being, than to have stayed in the job and dwelled on it for too long, which affects her state of mind too. Most of her friends are encouraging her to move too. In an odd way, everybody should have the rights to a happy livingstyle. Money doesn't mean everything. Sometimes it is just letting go of that mindset, we put ourselves in. We can always side track, and come back to fight another day.

Thanks for the advice.. much appreciated. To be honest, I think this bout has been brought on by a combination of factors - currently unhappy in my job, stressed at thought of applying for a new job, not knowing what I want career wise and I generally feel down at this time of year. I think the only way forward would be to address the main issue of work and finding alternative employment. I will overcome this issue and make the most of a bad situation and be possitive about the future!!

Thankfully i have never been classed as depressed. I've been down a lot over the years which, at the moment, i'm going through quite a low point in my life but i know a couple of factors will be changing in the next couple of weeks or so. Luckily for me when these factors happen my happiness should be significantly increased.

I cannot give you any advice about my experiences with depression but the best way i deal with things when i'm down or life seems a bit crap with no light at the end of the tunnell is visit a medium.

Might sound a bit daft but she gives me things that look good so i concentrate on that. Sadly for me though the thing that is really screwing my mind at the moment wont be resolved until September according to her. Not nice to think that area wont be sorted until then!! Obviously its possible the issue wont happen!!! Its always bloody women at the forefront of my mind being screwed!!!

At least other two issues will be resolved soon so at least that part of me should increase my happiness.

Good luck for the future and hopefully it will go your way:thumbsup:

There's some excellent advice here, particularly from Lizzmobile, I think. I'd really try and go with her advice whether you go for medication/counselling or not. Try to be objective about things, stand back and think about an outsider you admire, and what they would think of a certain event/situation and the advice they'd give. It's not a weakness, in fact it's often a sign of great strength. Also, I'd suggest, building things in to your day that you enjoy, or at least, used to enjoy, you'll be surprised how much it's worth the effort. Positive self-talk helps too, don't beat yourself up about things, focus on the positive, eg - if something at work doesn't go too well, instead of reverting to 'you're stupid, you never get it right, etc' say, 'ok, that was hard for you, but you did it, you're still here, and deserve a pat on the back for your efforts, and next time you'll be even better at it' etc. If I can be of any help at all, pm me. Take care of yourself. As for the job, sounds like you would benefit from a change. Without wanting to sound patronising, I find that thinking positive, usually brings more positive things your way. Also thinking and maybe doing something for others far less fortunate, even in a small way, helps to lift one's mood.

Hi,

I'm currently going through a very bad patch of depression and can't seem to shake it and now it's getting the point where I don't want to go to work and/or socialise with anyone. I suffered from depression previously, but this is the first serious case I've had for a long while and now I'm becoming a bit concerned.

Anyone else out there suffering or suffered from depression, if so, how did you tackle it etc.. I do lots of exercise, need to really, as I'm training for London Marathon and that does nothing to lift my mood. Also, I don't take anti depressants and never will. I don't want to become dependant on a chemically enduced state of happiness.

Any ideas most welcome.

DD

I suffered with depression from the ages of 17-29, and had a breakdown about 2-3 years ago.

I found that anti-depressant only papered over the cracks (and in the case of liquid Prozac actually made me suicidal)

I sought counselling which helped immensley, and have never felt better than in the last 18 months, though there are always times when I feel down or bear certain emotional scars.

I find depression a fascinating research area, particular in relation to Bi-Polar disorder and Borderline Personality disorder. There is also a lot of debate over the nature of depression, i.e. is it genetic, environmental, reactive, or a combination.

Feel free to PM me, and I will offer any advice I can, if only from my own personal experience.

Mike

DD try counselling. A counsellor can help you work out the root of your worries and help you to face your anxieties. It sounds like confidence may be a problem and this is just one thing that a counsellor can help you overcome. You're listening to the negative voices in your head but there are ways of making those voices quieter and being more positive and good to yourself. Most of us are guilty of being too hard on ourselves but it can be a vicious cycle!

Lizz's ideas are really good. If you are susceptible to winter blues then getting out into the sun can really help! Also have you thought of maybe trying one of those light boxes? Have you noticed the days are getting longer too....?

You say exercise doesn't help but what about yoga. You may think it's a bit girly but it can make you feel quite peaceful, it also teaches you to relax!! Good luck :)

DD try counselling. A counsellor can help you work out the root of your worries and help you to face your anxieties. It sounds like confidence may be a problem and this is just one thing that a counsellor can help you overcome. You're listening to the negative voices in your head but there are ways of making those voices quieter and being more positive and good to yourself. Most of us are guilty of being too hard on ourselves but it can be a vicious cycle!

Sounds like you are referring to CBT, which has proved very helpful for some patients.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_behavioral_therapy

I rarely get depressed, very rarely, but last time i was depressed God helped me through it, well not directly, but i found that a good prayer and a one to one with God helped me get through it pretty easily.

I rarely get depressed, very rarely, but last time i was depressed God helped me through it, well not directly, but i found that a good prayer and a one to one with God helped me get through it pretty easily.

If this worked for you, this is good.

I however, would feel somewhat defeated if the Sheffield Mental health Authority referred to me to 'God' to address my problems.

ive had about 6 fights with depression in my 30 years on this earth. ive found the best way was with the help of a therapist and meds. i was prescribed what is known as lexapro, which is more for anxieties then depression but many things can trigger depression so dont write an anti-anxiety med off. i used my meds for about the first 6 months of my treatment and the last 6 months without.

with the help of my therapist i was able to take on my depression and fight it. it helped me that i had someone to talk to twice (and eventually once) a week and someone who could help me verbalise my thoughts so i didnt feel so alone.thats the worst part of depression is that feeling of being so alone. i also kept a blog (which i still keep up) and proper journal, which i would discuss in therapy.

its been 3 years since my last battle and im learning how to survive better thanks to the therapy i received. i owe therapy my life.

i know you said youre not into meds but you might want to take a look at herb called st johns wart, which many people take to help fight their depression, naturally.

the fact that you are talking and looking for help is a good sign and there are avenues out there to help you. good luck and feel better soon :)

Being bi-polar, I have two options. I can be medicated or I can cope. I choose to cope with it, but I don't know how I cope with it and I can't give you any advice.

Good luck though.

Being bi-polar, I have two options. I can be medicated or I can cope. I choose to cope with it, but I don't know how I cope with it and I can't give you any advice.

Good luck though.

Did you ever go down the Lithium route?

i know you said youre not into meds but you might want to take a look at herb called st johns wart, which many people take to help fight their depression, naturally.


St John's Wort actually acts as a natural SSRI and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor, and possibly as an old style MAOI - so it's still a drug. Just one that isn't sythesised in a lab.

Which means that you might get widely varying results depending upon the source.

St John's Wort actually acts as a natural SSRI and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor, and possibly as an old style MAOI - so it's still a drug. Just one that isn't sythesised in a lab.

Which means that you might get widely varying results depending upon the source.

thank you for your clarification. i just figured it would be safer (and less addictive) than using say paxil or prozac.

Did you ever go down the Lithium route?

Yeah, didn't go to well.

Sounds like your depression is a reaction to circumstances, DD, in which case you're doing absolutely the right thing by trying to change those circumstances for the better. Hope you turn the corner soon :thumbsup:

I'm really sorry to hear that DD..hope you're feeling better real soon!

I have been suffering on and off for the past 6yrs, and at one point was on the highest dosage of prozac that was deemed safe. I found that by doing lots of exercise (Yoga included), meditation and just getting out of the house more, I was a much happier bunny.

I also find that saying a daily affirmation (corny, i no), such as 'I'm going to get up, get dressed and I'm gonna have a great day!' really, really helped. I also thought about the many wonderful things in my life which I take for granted - like my beautiful daughter for instance.

I stopped taking Prozac before Christmas and have never felt better! Please don't suffer alone though, there's loadsa people who can help..

Feel better!

i suffer with severe depression myself an reading the advice that u all give out really helps alot of people im not doin to bad at the moment since iv moved anyway this is such a wonderfull forum to have keep up all the good work every1 :) :thumbsup:

St John's Wort actually acts as a natural SSRI and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor, and possibly as an old style MAOI - so it's still a drug. Just one that isn't sythesised in a lab.

Which means that you might get widely varying results depending upon the source.

If you are thinking of a medication, please bear this in mind. Most medicines come from natural products, however the active compunds are resynthesised and this will eliminate the side effects and make them more effective.

St Johns Wort has a worse side effect profile than all the modern antidepressants that are prescribed. It interacts with every other medication that you are taking. Do not take in combination with an antidepressant.

Prozac (Fluoxetine) hightens anxiety which is associated with depression, if you are anxious your GP should not give you this, nor should they give you a beta blocker.

Seroxat (Paroxetine) is a very good antidepressant which will help with the anxiety, but this is hardly given any more because of massive discontiunuation problems

Cipramil (Citalopram) is a well tolerated SSRI that can help with Panic disorders as well as treating the depression.

Lustral (Sertraline) can help with obssessive compulsive symptoms but needs a high dose for effect

Cipralex (Escitalopram) is a better version of citalopram with lesss side effects than the other and can help more with the anxiety disorders.

Zispin (Mirtazipine) is a different class of antidepressant that helps with treating the depression, but it causes drowsiness and weight gain.

Tricyclic antidepressants should not be prescribed by anyone other than a psychiatrist.

Efexor is used by psychiatrists, but you need to have an ECG before you go on it if you have cardiac problems.

Your doctor should explain about the medications, ask to see the doctor who is in charge of mental health as they will be more interested in it. You have the right to the best medication, you pay your taxes and national insurance. Don't be fobbed off by a cheap brand and always ask for the think that you think is most suitable. The higher the dose, the higher the side effects so always start on a low dose and try and maintain as low as you can.

Depression costs the Economy a fortune in incapacity benefit and associated claims, it is a chronic disease and if not treated appropriately first time you run the risk of relapse. you should take an antidepressant for 6 months after the depression has gone to make sure you do not relapse.

If you are depressed see your GP immediately, they are there to help and will not force you to do what you don't want. Look things up on the internet, but don't believe everything written on here as a lot of the information is missing i.e. the st Johns wort reference, it is not a good idea, if it was Doctors would reccomend it. If in doubt look at www.nice.org for the depression guidance and what you should be doing, it may help.

People feel suicidal when they are depressed, it is a natural thing to feel, but if you feel like this see your doctor immediately. There is a lot of help available.

St Johns Wort has a worse side effect profile than all the modern antidepressants that are prescribed. It interacts with every other medication that you are taking. Do not take in combination with an antidepressant.

What side effects are common other than reacting with other anti depressants?

Hi,

I'm currently going through a very bad patch of depression and can't seem to shake it and now it's getting the point where I don't want to go to work and/or socialise with anyone. I suffered from depression previously, but this is the first serious case I've had for a long while and now I'm becoming a bit concerned.

Anyone else out there suffering or suffered from depression, if so, how did you tackle it etc.. I do lots of exercise, need to really, as I'm training for London Marathon and that does nothing to lift my mood. Also, I don't take anti depressants and never will. I don't want to become dependant on a chemically enduced state of happiness.

Any ideas most welcome.

DD

Make an appointment to see a doctor

You have identified that things are not right. See a professional who deals with such things day in and day out. Do not dismiss medication out of hand - you may require a little chemical help for a very short period - don't rule anything out.

Hope the clouds lift for you:)

Eat properly, sleep properly, excercise for at least 3 times a week for half an hour. It's shown to have just as big an effect as depression drugs so it would cost the NHS a lot less if people chose to excercise.

When people take placebos instead of proper medication studies show there's a 38 percent cure rate. When they're told it's a placebo they get worse again.

Meditation also seems to work and you can train yourself to think positive, which again has been proven to work.

From the QI book.

...When people take placebos instead of proper medication studies show there's a 38 percent cure rate. When they're told it's a placebo they get worse again. :loopy:
When drugs are trialled, they're tested against a placebo. Anti-depressants are significantly better than placebos in alleviating the symptoms of depression.

The SSRIs are not suitable for everyone, of course, though there's a good chance that one of them will prove beneficial. Counselling can and does help many people, though others find that their symproms are the result of a chemical imbalance which can be alleviated only by chemical intervention. This is particularly the case when the depression comes 'out of the blue', and can not be associated with any upsets or problems in the sufferers history or current life.

What side effects are common other than reacting with other anti depressants?

this is from a website,

Antidepressants should be selected on tolerability profile, ask your GP if it is a good idea, personally I would avoid. you will get a better medication for £6.50 which is comparable with the price of the supplement

Side Effects and Cautions
St. John's wort may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Other side effects can include anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.
Research shows that St. John's wort interacts with some drugs. The herb affects the way the body processes or breaks down many drugs; in some cases, it may speed or slow a drug's breakdown. Drugs that can be affected include:
Indinavir and possibly other drugs used to control HIV infection
Irinotecan and possibly other drugs used to treat cancer
Cyclosporine, which prevents the body from rejecting transplanted organs
Digoxin, which strengthens heart muscle contractions
Warfarin and related anticoagulants
Birth control pills
Antidepressants
When combined with certain antidepressants, St. John's wort may increase side effects such as nausea, anxiety, headache, and confusion.
St. John's wort is not a proven therapy for depression. If depression is not adequately treated, it can become severe. Anyone who may have depression should see a health care provider. There are effective proven therapies available.
It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including St. John's wort. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Also, I don't take anti depressants and never will.


Not much point asking for useful advice then, is there? :rolleyes:

When drugs are trialled, they're tested against a placebo. Anti-depressants are significantly better than placebos in alleviating the symptoms of depression.

Prozac and Efexcor: 52 percent cure rate. (although temporary respite 'till the next day)

Placebo: 38 percent. When the deception was revealed they got worse.

Not worth the £billions cost in those instances. Maybe others are more successful.

Not much point asking for useful advice then, is there? :rolleyes:

Why not? a pill is not always the answer to everything and many people manage their depression without them very well, pills are given out far to easily far to soon in my opinion, when all that is really needed a lot of the time is a listening ear and some support.
Please don't think i am saying there is no place for medication because there most definately is in some cases..... i really think they are over prescribed as the easy option by over stretched doctors, who have neither the time nor the patience to listen!

this is from a website,

Antidepressants should be selected on tolerability profile, ask your GP if it is a good idea, personally I would avoid. you will get a better medication for £6.50 which is comparable with the price of the supplement

Side Effects and Cautions
St. John's wort may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Other side effects can include anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headache, or sexual dysfunction.
Research shows that St. John's wort interacts with some drugs. The herb affects the way the body processes or breaks down many drugs; in some cases, it may speed or slow a drug's breakdown. Drugs that can be affected include:
Indinavir and possibly other drugs used to control HIV infection
Irinotecan and possibly other drugs used to treat cancer
Cyclosporine, which prevents the body from rejecting transplanted organs
Digoxin, which strengthens heart muscle contractions
Warfarin and related anticoagulants
Birth control pills
Antidepressants
When combined with certain antidepressants, St. John's wort may increase side effects such as nausea, anxiety, headache, and confusion.
St. John's wort is not a proven therapy for depression. If depression is not adequately treated, it can become severe. Anyone who may have depression should see a health care provider. There are effective proven therapies available.
It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including St. John's wort. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.
Thank you for that, its interesting .... but i have used st johns wort for many years with very good effect and no side effects listed there at all, perhaps i am lucky :confused: i really cannot take antidepressants at all!

Trials reliably and repeatedly demonstrate the significantly greater efficacy of anti-depressants over placebo. The difference between the two is enhanced the more severe the depression.

No one will deny that the placebo effect is real, especially - in this context - in cases of mild depression. However to suggest that SSRI anti-depressants are not worth the money is silly. Even the most rabid critic of the pharmaceutical industry and the chemical alleviation of depression wouldn't go that far.

Trials reliably and repeatedly demonstrate the significantly greater efficacy of anti-depressants over placebo. The difference between the two is enhanced the more severe the depression.

No one will deny that the placebo effect is real, especially - in this context - in cases of mild depression. However to suggest that SSRI anti-depressants are not worth the money is silly. Even the most rabid critic of the pharmaceutical industry and the chemical alleviation of depression wouldn't go that far.

Agreed

Placebo effect shows that someone has taken the first steps into confronting their depression. It is well known that if placebo is continued depressive symptoms will begin to increase.

SSRI's are the safest antidepressants out there.

Councelling is available and you may wait for about 3 months for it if you are not lucky enough to live in an area where it is freely available.

CBT chances of response are about 1 in 3

When drugs are trialled, they're tested against a placebo. Anti-depressants are significantly better than placebos in alleviating the symptoms of depression.

Prozac and Efexcor: 52 percent cure rate. (although temporary respite 'till the next day)

Placebo: 38 percent. When the deception was revealed they got worse.

Not worth the £billions cost in those instances. Maybe others are more successful.

Look on line for some of the trials, idealy it should be looking at long term remission of depression. But 8 weeks is enough to demonstrate effect.

Efexor should be higher than Prozac from what I have read, but the course takes longer the most effective SSRI to get there. Prozac (Fluoxetine) is a very weak antidepressant and the only reason GP's give it is because it costs pennies. i.e The NHS will be making money out of your prescription for a sub standard medication, don't get fobbed off unless it works for you.

Could D Money or a mod please correct the quote in post #39? It currently looks like I made the comments about Prozac vs placebo.

Placebo effect shows that someone has taken the first steps into confronting their depression. It is well known that if placebo is continued depressive symptoms will begin to increase.

The thing is, confronting depression doesn't always make it better. I know that there's something wrong with me, but it doesn't make it any better. Actually acknowledging that feeling the way I do is wrong actually makes me feel worse. I've tried almost every path to make me better but nothing has ever worked. I either feel dead and emotionless, or I can feel like this. I choose to feel like this because I know that in a few weeks I'll feel better but I'll go a little bit mad. I acknowledge the 'state' I'm in and try to handle it myself - I don't want my moods to be all the same no matter what happens, but I don't want to feel like jumping in front of a train either.. I'd rather feel something over nothing.

Could D Money or a mod please correct the quote in post #39? It currently looks like I made the comments about Prozac vs placebo.


I think that's fixed it. :)

I think that's fixed it. :)
Yes, it has. Thanks :) .

I was depressed many years ago due to the end of my engagement, i agree with joep, you can take anti-depressants for a short while to lift your mood just so you can get a grip on yourself. I never finished my course of about 6 months, i woke one day and said "thats it, im not relying on them to get my life in order" Ive been fine since until the birth of my daughter, when i suffered post natal depression, i didnt take pills for that though, as i had someone who needed me. Im sure a day spent washing my car will make it all go away:thumbsup: (private joke) but seriously, i hope you beat this, with the stresses of everyday life depression is becoming more common

Pills just make thing worse, and this time of the year does not make it any better.
Once you are a victim of 'Black Dog' as a certain leader used to call it, you are never really free.
It is different for everyone, but I know, when a few years ago I was laid low with it, I woke up one spring morning, and felt completely different.
I could see the way forward, and for the first time in ages, I was not frightened or worried about the problems confronting me.

I got up, dressed and from that moment on began sorting my life out, and have never looked back (well perhaps sometimes) since.

I would never say I could not fall victim again, but the circumstances I am in today make this unlikely. :thumbsup:

Pills just make thing worse ...
That's a rather irresponsible thing to say, and for many, many people it's simply incorrect. Anti-depressants have many people's lives bearable again, and - ultimately - have restored them to normality.

For some people, the battle with depression is a life-long thing. That you were lucky enough to completely shake it off unaided makes you very, very fortunate, not to mention unusual.

How many give themselves a chance though by excercising and feeding themselves properly.

It's not rocket science... don't do the basics you'll get depressed.

That's a rather irresponsible thing to say, and for many, many people it's simply incorrect. Anti-depressants have many people's lives bearable again, and - ultimately - have restored them to normality.

For some people, the battle with depression is a life-long thing. That you were lucky enough to completely shake it off unaided makes you very, very fortunate, not to mention unusual.

The pills were just making me a walking zombie, they are useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody.

I stopped taking them, and within a few weeks was a functioning human again.
Medication for medications sake is evil.

The pills were just making me a walking zombie, they are useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody.

Exactly how I feel. Pills are useless for me unless I want to feel dead. I might aswell be dead if I choose to feel like that.

The pills were just making me a walking zombie, they are useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody.

I stopped taking them, and within a few weeks was a functioning human again. ...
That was your own personal experience. While I don't deny that side-effects exist, hundreds of thousands of people have had their symptoms of depression treated entirely successfully by anti-depressant medication.

Which anti-depressants were you taking, anyway?

Useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody? What an utterly ridiculous thing to say! You really think that those who've taken anti-depressants, and have consequently been lifted from a miserable semi-existence, count themselves as nobodies?

Have you heard of Lewis Wolpert? You really should read some of his work about his personal experience of depression and of taking anti-depressants.
...Medication for medications sake is evil.
Tell me, who do you think takes anti-depressants for the sake of it?

That was your own personal experience. While I don't deny that side-effects exist, hundreds of thousands of people have had their symptoms of depression treated entirely successfully by anti-depressant medication.

Which anti-depressants were you taking, anyway?

Useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody? What an utterly ridiculous thing to say! You really think that those who've taken anti-depressants, and have consequently been lifted from a miserable semi-existence, count themselves as nobodies?

Have you heard of Lewis Wolpert? You really should read some of his work about his personal experience of depression and of taking anti-depressants.

Tell me, who do you think takes anti-depressants for the sake of it?

Have you ever been in that situation Hecate?
Anyway I am not getting involved any further, it brings back too many memories. :thumbsup:

Have you ever been in that situation Hecate? ...
In which situation? Having depression or being adversely affected by anti-depressants? I'm not giving you details of my private life on an open forum, simply because you fail to understand that because you have had a bad experience with anti-depressants, many others have had their symptoms treated entirely successfully.

As I've said in previous posts, there can be side-effects of taking anti-depressants, just like there are with most other medications. As with most other medications, not all people who take the medication are affected by those side effects.

I'll repeat - how many of those "hundreds of thousands" eat properly and excercise.

Any answers that say they don't eat properly or excercise because of the depression is nothing like the chicken and the egg. You have to treat your body properly and naturally, otherwise depression will occur.

I'll repeat - how many of those "hundreds of thousands" eat properly and excercise.

Any answers that say they don't eat properly or excercise because of the depression is nothing like the chicken and the egg. You have to treat your body properly and naturally, otherwise depression will occur.
Absolutely and utterly incorrect. 'Eating properly' and exercising will not safeguard you from depression, especially severe depression.

For some people, exercise can sometimes help to alleviate the symptoms of mild depression. It will not prevent those symptoms from occurring in the first place.

In which situation? Having depression or being adversely affected by anti-depressants? I'm not giving you details of my private life on an open forum, simply because you fail to understand that because you have had a bad experience with anti-depressants, many others have had their symptoms treated entirely successfully.

As I've said in previous posts, there can be side-effects of taking anti-depressants, just like there are with most other medications. As with most other medications, not all people who take the medication are affected by those side effects.

Why not? no one knows who you are or cares, If you have knowledge that may be for the greater good it is your duty to divulge it.

Why not? no one knows who you are or cares, If you have knowledge that may be for the greater good it is your duty to divulge it.
I wouldn't dare to assume that my own personal experiences are likely to contribute to the 'greater good'.

Individuals' personal experiences are particularly irrelevant in this case as they're likely to differ according to the person, the anti-depressant they're taking, what other medications they're taking, the range and severity of their depression symptoms etc. Which is why you making such a sweeping generalization as:
...they are useless unless you want to spend the rest of your life as a nobody...
is so ridiculous.

I wouldn't dare to assume that my own personal experiences are likely to contribute to the 'greater good'.

Individuals' personal experiences are particularly irrelevant in this case as they're likely to differ according to the person, the anti-depressant they're taking, what other medications they're taking, the range and severity of their depression symptoms etc. Which is why you making such a sweeping generalization as:

is so ridiculous.

Calm down lass. Dont go getting yourself in such a state.
You will do yourself a mischief! :)

I'll repeat - how many of those "hundreds of thousands" eat properly and excercise.

You have to treat your body properly and naturally, otherwise depression will occur.

IMO you are mistaking 'unhappiness' with 'depression'. When it comes down to it, there are actually very few similarities between the two.

How many give themselves a chance though by excercising and feeding themselves properly.

It's not rocket science... don't do the basics you'll get depressed.

Depression is an extremely complex thing.

I know what you are getting at.
Eat better, live better, feel better, etc etc, but depression doesn't work like that. This comment, added to the above one, almost certainly convinces me that you are mistaking the two.

Not much point asking for useful advice then, is there? :rolleyes:

Huh, cos I choose not use anti-depressants that makes this thread pointless?! There are many other ways of tackling this issue without going down the drug route and I was asking for peoples advice on these options hence the thread.

Anyway, great response from everyone and I'm grateful for you all for taking time to advise me.

i have suffered many bouts of depression right from my teens and still do and im 51. i have only took anti depressants 3 times. i dont like taking tablets and wont unless its neccesary.

i found in the early days when i was depressed or even unhappy i would get away from what was making me unhappy. i soon got paranoid which didnt help and usually when i got to that stage i did something about it which in my case was moving house and quitting jobs to get away from people that was making me feel like that.

i would advice councelling. having someone to talk to is a great help in making you feel better in yourself. i had councilling when my hubby died and just before to help me through it and it was a great help. i have had councelling before when things have got me down and depressed.

only people that have been badly depressed can understand how you are feeling. its a long road and you need people around you that you can talk to and be understanding.

try focusing on things you know you are good at and that you are usually comfortable with.

Huh, cos I choose not use anti-depressants that makes this thread pointless?! There are many other ways of tackling this issue without going down the drug route and I was asking for peoples advice on these options hence the thread.

Anyway, great response from everyone and I'm grateful for you all for taking time to advise me.

I think its fair enough not to want to take the happy pills, as they can be scary things (note, never, ever take Seroxat, that stuff is the work of the devil :(), but I must add that once you get right at the bottom of the black hole then they are a useful way out if you have the right pills. If you are only 'on the way there' though, you can do things to help yourself. One of those things is to recognise whats happening and don't be afraid of telling others - including colleagues at work, that you need a bit of space.

The other thing is to spend time in activity which is slightly creative, but which does not demand huge amounts of brain input (I don't recommend taking up writing epic poetry for example!), and which occupies the mind gently. This might be renovating some furniture, knitting, playing computer strategy games, playing with a pet, or my fave, gardening! But if it's really black then the best thing is always to see the doctor pronto.

Sorry to hear of your problems DD. Perhaps the fact that you have identified a a couple of reasons for it will help you sort out the next step.

I have never been depressed, miserable, yes but not deeply depressed. My first husband however battled with it throught our marriage, until the end of his life. His was brought about by his then wife taking off with the two kids, the contents of the house, and bank accounts and his best friend, all while he had been in hospital with a back injury. For good measure she had divorced him having forged all the papers as well. Sadly he never saw his children again and had no idea where to find them. Anyway, more to the point, after the major attack which followed this, he had small episodes focussed around the boys' birthdays and Christmas. At these times, medication helped him to function and counselling helped too. Sadly, the ultimate cure was not available to him - the return of his children.

What I am trying to say is to go to the GP - perhaps medication is not the right way for you but there are other options and modern medicines need not be addictive.

[QUOTE=Mathom;1947591]I think its fair enough not to want to take the happy pills, as they can be scary things (note, never, ever take Seroxat, that stuff is the work of the devil :(), QUOTE]

I don't think that you should slate one drug because of your bad experience.

Antidepressants should be tailored to each individual, and one is not always right for each person. It is trial and error finding the right one.

If you don't want to take them, then you will have a long lonely road ahead of you.

I don't think that you should slate one drug because of your bad experience.

Antidepressants should be tailored to each individual, and one is not always right for each person. It is trial and error finding the right one.

If you don't want to take them, then you will have a long lonely road ahead of you.

I think some people know they have a long lonely road against them. There is a choice, you can either pump yourself full of fake chemicals/hormones from another animal and feel 'fine and dandy' all day or you can be depressed. THIS is my personality - I'm not a happy person. I choose to be the way I am because I've been like this ever since I can remember, I don't WANT to be one of those smiley all-ways happy people because they frankly annoy me. If I want to feel a smidge of emotion, be that happiness or misery, I have to remain unmedicated.

Yes, I hurt people, including myself and my close family through being this way. I've said things to numerous people on this forum which I've looked back on and thought 'wow.. that was out of line' but I did it, and thats just how I am. There's no changing me, I'm a very nasty person and I'm moody, and I cry at everything, and sometimes I go mad and I am uncontrollable. I sometimes walk on the railings over the top of bridges, and sometimes I want to throw myself in front of a train, but that is MY choice, not yours, not my doctors, not anyones.

I know that the way I am will kill me. But I'd rather be dead than be unable to cry of feel happy. Yes, I have more bad moments than good moments, but the good moments are amazing. Granted the bad moments are terrifying and there is no in between, I'm either good or I'm bad, but being packed full of drugs and feeling zombiefied (and yes I've tried almost every drug commercially available) is not what I want my life to be made up of.

I've had a cocktail of drugs, which over the years has been made 'suitable' for me. I've vomitied, I've been dizzy, I've been hospitalized and I've felt like killing myself, all as a result of drugs.

In the end, drugs aren't for me. Yeah they suit others, but they don't suit me.