How do you know if you're depressed/need meds? - Depression Message Board

Zoot · 01-06-2003, 08:19 AM

It might seem like a silly question, I know, but I have this image of depression in my mind, and I'm not sure I fit it. I'm not completely in despair all the time, but sometimes I break into tears for no clear reason, and I have a pretty steady state of anxiety most of the time. I get so moody that I can't talk to people well, including my wife. This hurts her probably more than me, and I've tried and tried to get a more positive outlook, with no success. My wife's at the end of her tether.

Anyway, how do I know if I should take Paxil? My doctor has prescribed it for me.

I've started seeing a counsellor, and really am motivated to make changes in my life, but I think I might need the extra help of Paxil. But then I get worried about side-effects and addiction.

What if I take it for a few months/half a year just to stabalize so I can change my mindset better?

Does any of this make sense?

Delphi · 01-06-2003, 10:11 AM

Hi Zoot,

Sorry it's taken so long for you to get a response.

Depression has many faces..and there are degress of depression.

Sweetie, you don't have to stay on the paxil forever

I think a lot of people take it about a year, just like you said.

Side effects generally go away within weeks, but if the side effects( if you even have side effects) are too much for you to take, tell your doctor. He can either switch to something else or whatever. I tried about four ADs before finding one that worked.

Hope this hel;ps somewhat- i'm no expert

Love,
Delphi

Zoot · 01-06-2003, 10:17 AM

Thank you so much, Delphi. I know you're no expert, but you're more familiar with this terrain than I am. It's just so over-whelming at times.

allyson · 01-10-2003, 01:31 PM

Hi Zoot. For a long time i didn't know if what i was feeling was considered depression either. i think i was trying to deny it maybe. but just recently i started wellbutrin. i was at the end of my rope and figured that if anti-depressants helped, it would be a welcome thing. i hope you feel some relief soon. and your resolve to create positive life changes is a good thing. good luck to you.

wenron · 01-12-2003, 01:04 PM

Hi,
I was on paxil on and off for depression, pms and anxiety attacks. Yes, it helped a lot, but when you try to get off of it, it's very hard. It's been about 4 months since I've been off of it and I still don't feel as good as when I was on it. But, I did gain 40 lbs. and have lost weight since (but I eat very healthy and have been excercising, so that could be it also).
Only you know if you are depressed. Try it and see if it helps. I know many people who have had great success with it...but many say it can be like heroin getting off of it..so be careful.