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Mental Health (Expert Forum)
Depression and psychosomatic symptoms esp. phantom pregnancy!
Questions posted in the Mental Health forum are being answered by Dr. Roger L. Gould, author of the Mastering Stress and Depression program and affiliated with the UCLA. Department of Psychiatry. Topics covered include anger, attention deficit disorder (ADD) , bipolar disorder , dementia , electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) , learning disabilities, memory, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) , panic , personality disorders, phobias , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , schizophrenia , stress , transitions, and work problems.
Depression and psychosomatic symptoms esp. phantom pregnancy!
by Joan__0__0, Jul 25, 1999 12:00AM
Posted by Joan on July 25, 1999 at 17:36:32
I have been treated for depression for several years and am curious about the physical effects this can have on you i.e. my weight fluctuates, I have symptoms of both diabetes and thyroid imbalances but blood tests prove inconclusive etc. I underwent a termination two years ago but am sure that I am in permanent "pregnant" state of mind (and body!)How does this work and what can I do about it?I can't find any info. on phantom pregnancy anywhere so would appreciate your help - thanks!
Posted by HFHS MD-JM on July 27, 1999 at 07:48:25
Joan,
I'm not quite clear on what your question is at this time. Long term treatment with antidepressants is not known to result in any disease such as diabetes or thyroid imbalance. Weight gain has occurred in long term treatment with some antidepressants, usually 5-10 pounds. In general, side effects resolve when an antidepressant is discontinued.
In regards to your question about "phantom pregnancy" I'm not sure what you mean. There is a delusional disorder called pseudocyesis where one falsely believes that they are pregnant and report some physical changes that can occur during gestation. This is a psychotic disorder that is treatable.
I recommend that you follow up with your medical physician for further discussion of these issues. The information provided in this forum is presented for general educational purposes only. Specific questions you have pertaining to your health should always be directed to your personal physician.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD-JM
Keywords: Psychosomatic, somatization, pseudocyesis
