[Samanthagreene]

This whole thing is still really new to me, since I only got diagnosed this summer, and I've been on lexapro since then. However, my parents don't think I should be on medication. They insist that depression is part of creativity and if you treat it, you will stop being creative. I don't know what to make of this, since I feel the medication has been helpful, at least a bit.
-Sam

[Alokin]

Depending on how self destructive your symptoms manifest, I am inclined to subscribe to this view as well. I don't know how old you are. If I had a child suffering like I have, I would do some research perhaps about how long the brain continues to develop. I would think that unless symptoms are especially self destructive that I would urge my child and doctors to put off meds because so little is known how these medications affect a developing brain, but this is an extremely personal decision.

[Moose72]

Anti depressants arent helpful if youre dead.

[venusss]

Originally Posted by Alokin

Depending on how self destructive your symptoms manifest, I am inclined to subscribe to this view as well. I don't know how old you are. If I had a child suffering like I have, I would do some research perhaps about how long the brain continues to develop. I would think that unless symptoms are especially self destructive that I would urge my child and doctors to put off meds because so little is known how these medications affect a developing brain, but this is an extremely personal decision.

yeah this... ADs can actually increase suicidal impulses in young people.

Do your parents have any personal experience with psychmeds? Maybe you can have a longer chat on what to do and your options.

[Samanthagreene]

My parents do not have any personal experience, but thanks for all the advice!

Originally Posted by Samanthagreene

This whole thing is still really new to me, since I only got diagnosed this summer, and I've been on lexapro since then. However, my parents don't think I should be on medication. They insist that depression is part of creativity and if you treat it, you will stop being creative. I don't know what to make of this, since I feel the medication has been helpful, at least a bit.
-Sam

samantha,

with me, my parents (as well as against medication) were against other things... mental health in general, mainly.

i had to go it alone- and seek treatment by myself and do you know something?

it's 1 of the hardest things i ever had to do... not in a physical sense, but mentally knowing that my own family had no hope that i was any use anyway. that was hard

[Victoria'smom]

I'm against meds for kids until all else fails or the symptoms are deadly. If you have bipolar you should not just be on an anti-depressant. That alone can make you suicidal. Ask your parents if you can take the meds like they are anti-biotics until you get past them. Ask your psychiatrist for an as needed anti psychotic or anti-anxiety for when things get "to much" because your parents do not believe in medication.

[wotchermuggle]

Are your parents willing to let you have therapy instead?

[steelfang]

If you are under 17 or so, I wholeheartedly agree with your parents. There is a reason why antidepressants are the last line of treatment for teens. The developing mind responds to external stimuli, including meds, much differently than more mature brains.

If you still want meds, I would convince your parents to come to your next appointment. Having a group session and listening to your doctor might change your parents' minds. Good luck!

[Samanthagreene]

I am in therapy right now. Thanks guys.

[venusss]

Maybe if you feel are need meds and are better off on something, try to cooperate with your parents to monitor some unexpected negative reactions you might have. It may give them peace (and help you if there is a trouble).