Is this substance abuse?

Hi
I've been prescribed Lexapro 10mg for my depression  As a recovering addict I can get addicted to almost anything.
I do suffer from an ongoing long term dysthmia or mild depression. My doctor thinks I need it - he prescribed it. He said it wasnt as addictive as Endep - which I managed to put down ok.
Deep down I wonder if I manipulated the doctor into prescribing it for me. I could have. Like I said I am an addict. It wouldn't be my drug of choice, but I expect many of you will know what I mean. I wonder if I'm not doing the wrong thing, or on the other hand if I am doing the right thing getting myself some treatment
Knowing me I'll self medicate - I'll take half 5mg and see how it goes - if Its ok  - if I like it - I'll try 10mg. But that will do me I wont take anymore then directed. Still does this sound like substance abuse to you?
Should I take it - or not?
I will accept and value advice from both sides - please dont argue with one another about who is right. In the end I will make up my own mind - based on the advice that you graciously can give me. Thank you in advance.

[dominosarah]

If my thinking is thinking today these meds have to be taken for a bit before you see any improvement.  I would take what the doctor prescribed.  If it isnt working for your depression then talk with him again as there are other meds that may work better.      sara

[GA Guy]

Lexapro is not considered an addictive drug. It dose have dependency issues, but can be minimized with tapering off the drug. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are not considered "no-no's" by the addiction community. In fact, if warranted, they can be a productive part of recovery. Lying to obtain an antidepressant when you're not depressed just to try out a new "drug" would be an example to addictive behavior with the Lexapro. If it's warranted, there's no issue with taking needed medication in recovery.

[Gettingcleanagain1221]

Trust me when I say that you won't get high off of it.  However, I was prescribed it and took as directed and it did make me feel worse. Along with that, coming off of it sux!!!!!

[BornofOsiris]

I wouldnt call it substance abuse if you ARE taking as directed, but if you are taking it just to take it, then yes you have a problem. Only you can answer this look deep down and ask yourself, "Do I really need this or not" And being a recovering addict we tend not to have no control of the substances were using, so you have to be exxxxxtra careful. If your thinking maybe you pulled his strings to get them, then you prolly did. Im sure you know the answer to this question since you also are a recovering addict. Much love

Dallas