Ritalin for Depression?

My doctor put me on Ritalin for listlessness, depression and attention/motivation problems.  I also use diet [high protein, no carbs or sugars] and meditation. The Ritalin worked for a while, but now is not working as well and I cannot up the dose because I get heart palpitations and eye tics. When I try to go off the Ritalin I feel suicidal. I feel trapped.

I have always thought that Ritalin was destructive to the brain over time. I have heard that "regular" antidepressants can help the brain so it gets "better" functionally even after you stop taking them. I want to stop Ritalin but feel afraid. I can put up with feeling totally hopeless for a few weeks, but not forever. Have I "hurt" my brain by taking Ritalin for a couple of years? Any thoughts/comments?

[whatsok]

Ask your doc about Abilify. A lot of people prefer it to Ritalin.

Good luck to you - i hope things get better.