My doctor thinks just talking will solve all my problems and says she doesn't "believe" in antidepressants but I feel that bad I'm seriously willing to try anything to change the way I think and feel. Just talking hardly does anything, only when I'm actually there talking not like after, is it possible that antidepressants could change things for me? And if there's a chance then surely I should try whatever it takes? Because I'm scared that my next suicide attempt will work and I just want change. But the talking doesn't really change anything. :/

[online user]

Anti-depressants work best in connection WITH therapy. Both methods can take a while to resolve issues. Most antidepressants are used on a trial-and-error basis. A doc will prescribe one, wait 4-6 weeks to see if it begins to help, then maybe try another. Many you have to be weaned off and then wait a bit, the start the new one, a low dose again at first. And some have terrible side effects. Most believe that therapy is most helpful, as through it, you can gain skills in dealing with others and your health issues. This alone is sometimes enough to resolve depression. Especially if you exercise or do other things which naturally increase endorphins. My first major depression, I just used exercise and therapy to work through, and I was suicidal during that.

You might read up on antidepressants and see if that is really something you want to pursue. If so, and you like your therapist, you might see a psychiatrist or family doctor and talk to them about meds for you. If you are not satisfied with your therapist, you might tell her you don't think it's working and why and look for anther one to try.

Some of us have genetic predispositions to mental illnesses. Those of us who do probably need the meds. If you seem to be the only person in your family who is so troubled, you might not need them. If you have psychotic episodes, you likely do. I think those with bipolar syndromes also benefit from meds. But I am not a doc--do consult one if you feel you want a second opinion from that of your therapist.

Sorry you are so troubled--hope things improve for you soon!

Thankyou. I guess I've been seeing different people for months now and it doesn't seem to change anything and seems to be getting worse, I guess I just wanted to see if I had any new options that might help. Thanks again. Best wishes.

[Miss Laura]

Hey again Jess... Probably having only one counsellor will prove bets for you?

I have tried Anti-depressants when depression was 1st diagnosised in me and they proved successful for a shor period.... this was before they realised I was bipolar so when I was manic and or showing mixed episodes they treated it with anti-depressants and that made me worse. Anyways as Online User said if a med doesn't work you are weaned off of it and then start on a new one and the cycle continues... its not the most fun I tell ya.

Consider talking to your GP about what S/he thinks is at the root of your depression and see if they think you might need medication in time.

I hope you find your answers soon!!

Thanks Laura you've really helped me lots, I'm so glad I found this place hope everything's looking up for you.

[Miss Laura]

No problem Jess.... Keep posting ok

Ye I am manic at mo so I am having a ball lol