Stagnant and Numb

[kr]

I have had a series of eventsa in my life and I really don't think I asked for them.  I gave up a son for adoption, my dad was an alcoholic who committed suicide, the father of my 2 children left me with a mortgage and will not pay child support, my daughter was recently molested by a neighbor we had known for seven years and despite the fact that there is medical evidence they dismissed the trial because she was too afraid to testify.  I am currently taking Effexor for depression.  in the past I have been very suicidal, but I cannot get along with people for any length of time.  I have been through 4 different jobs since May, and I hate working because of the people I work with.  I have no desire to do anything, I am a hermit.  I have no desire to take responsibility for anything and instead of paying bills like I should I spend money on stupid stuff.  I trust no one and feel like everyone hates me or is out to get me.  I want to be a good mother-I feel like I am spiraling downward and can't get out of this hole.  I don't care anymore if the house forecloses when at one time I fought tooth and nail to keep it.  I am so physically ill all the time anymore.  I just recovered from pnuemonia and now have terrible headaches at the base of my skull.  I cannot hold interest in anything, my mind wanders.  Somebody can be talking directly to me and I will try to take inwhat they are saying it just goes through me.  I am so disgusted with myself, because I don't want to be this way.  Am I losing it?  Do I need different medication or a lobotoy?  I do not look for crises, it finds me.  KR

[HFHS MD - RG]

Dear KR,

From the information provided, you may be experiencing Major Depression considering the length of time your depressed mood, and the associated symptoms such as social withdrawal and decreased interest in things.

Major Depression is characterized by depressed mood nearly every day for most of the day and/or a decreased interest or pleasure in activities. Accompanying  symptoms include change in appetite and sleep pattern, decreased energy, hopelessness, and decreased concentration, among others. Any time there is a stressor there is the potential for development of depression.

An untreated depressive episode lasts 6-13 months; whereas most treated episodes last less than three months. It is well documented that treating the depression shortens the course and can also help prevent recurrence of future episodes. Sixty to seventy-five percent of patients with major depression get better with treatment.

Antidepressants are safe, not addictive and well tolerated. People with a first episode of depression are usually treated for six to twelve months. A combination of medications and psychotherapy seem to be most effective. SSRI (Serotonin Specific Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Celexa are the drugs of choice. Other medications like tricyclic antidepressants and MAOI's are proven to be effective as well.

You may want to re-consult your treating physician for an increase or change in medication as well as undergoing psychotherapy sessions to help you deal with your past and present issues.

SINCERELY,

HFHS MD - RG

[Rebecca]

Do not give up! Go back to your doctor and see about different medication. They have different kinds. You just have to find something that helps you. I know because I have had to try different ones. It sounds as if you have had a lot a bad things come your way. I hope everything works out for you.