Depression

[butterfly449]

Since I was child I have episodes of feeling depressed and then all of a sudden happy and hyperactive. It got worse when I was a teenager as I would have mood swings with it too. Then I was attacked when I was 18 which made the depression worse so I was prescribed Prozac 20mg a day, but I’ve been on that now for 4 years, even though I don’t think about the attack anymore, I have them because I still feel depressed and will have days where I don’t want to leave the house or do anything and I feel so low. I still have mood swings where I get really angry and then I could cry for no reason, but then I will have highs where I’m just really hyperactive and can’t stop talking. I really want to know what is the matter with me?

[Jaquta]

In addition to seeing a psychiatrist I would also recommend psychotherapy.

I'm not sure but I was wondering if what you were describing was bipolar disorder.  Where you can get highs as well as the traditional lows.

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Hi and thanks for using the forum.

Many, many people suffer from depression and it can be difficult to manage/ treat.  However, it IS possible to get your depression under control, it sometimes takes a little time and some "trial and error".  Your depression is not being managed, and you need to be seen by a psychiatrist who can speak with you, discuss your symptoms and help you find the right treatment for you.  Things will get better for you, you just need the right help.  Good luck.

Bridget