Please respond. - Depression Message Board

Zoot · 01-06-2003, 09:58 AM

I know I'm probably being impatient, but could someone please respond to the other thread I started? I feel like I'm going crazy here wondering if I should take anti-depressants or not. I don't know what to do--I just want to make a decision. I feel like I need something to help me, but I don't want to make things worse, or wind up needing the drug to cope for the rest of my life.

I'm really confused right now, so please respond.

Jennita · 01-06-2003, 10:23 AM

Nobody can really answer that question but you. Any psychoactive drug is a neurotoxin, but some people can benefit from a short run of them. Long term use may cause damage. Withdrawal, or discontinuation symptoms may occur when you stop the drug.

Counceling may help you considerably, along with proper nutrition and plenty of exercise. Why not go with those first, then if you feel the need the Paxil will still be there. But make sure you decide to take meds on your own...don't let anyone pressure you into it. Some people react badly to Paxil. Plus biological, chemical imbalance caused depression theory is still yet unproven.

Zoot · 01-06-2003, 10:28 AM

Thanks, Jenna. You're right, I think I just want someone to tell me what I need to do. I'm still not sure. I feel like I need quick relief, because my constant bad mood is really having seriously negative effects on my relationship with my wife, and making her life miserable.

Jennita · 01-06-2003, 10:53 AM

Hopefully she can hang on intil you sort this out. Do you work out on a regular basis? Try it; it is the best mood lifter! Drink lots of water; dehydration, even slight, will cause low feelings. I read in a psychology today magazine that they have done studies indicating fish oil capsules, or eating alot of fish if you want, will help lift depression. Lately I have heard flax-seed oil is even better. Why not give these things a short trial while you are trying to figure out to Paxil or not to Paxil? Good luck to you!

blooz · 01-06-2003, 12:07 PM

Zoot, also educate yourself on depression. Read , therapy, excercise, maybe a support group. There's lots of info on the web.Take care! blooz