canewielder

I am a 50 year old male. I lost most of my central vision about 11 years ago from a virus so I am legally blind. I have always been a somewhat antisocial person but even more so after losing most of my vision. I became very depressed since losing my sight and my Medical Doctor started giving me paroxetine almost 2 years ago for the depression. About 6 months after losing my sight I would on occasion hear voices. A couple of times a month I would hear voices talking when no one was actually around. I couldn’t make out what they were saying except I would hear my name called at times. For the last several months (8 or 9) there has been a voice actually talking to me. It started out just a time or two a day but has increased greatly. It just carries on somewhat normal conversations, remarks about the news, people, events, daily activities, etc. I do not recognize the voice as being from someone I know or have known in the past, but it is a clear distinct voice. It can get very annoying, it is fairly constant during the hours I’m awake no matter what I’m doing or where I am. I haven’t told anyone about the voice for fear of being labeled insane and driving away those around me. Can severe depression cause someone to begin hearing voices? I am pretty sure it’s not schizophrenia because of my age. I would appreciate any help or useful information anyone can give about what is going on with me.

Thank You