Opiate withdrawal and depression

[suzieq8462]

Hello everyone!

I am a 19 years old and have Borderline Personality Disorder. I am currently on lexapro 20 mg, which I have been on for the last five years. In the past month, I started abusing opiates, mostly Vicodin, Percocet, Oxycontin, and Roxies. I saw myself getting dependent on the drugs, naturally, so about three days ago I stopped cold turkey. I went through all of the typical physical withdrawal symptoms and now I am physically fine, but I have been left with almost unbearable depression and constant suicidal thoughts. I have been battling depression for 8+ years now, but the last year it has been hell. Before the opiate use I had about two months of minimal depression, the only relief I had experienced in the previous year and know I am terrified that the deep dark depression is coming back. I guess my question is could this sudden, severe onset of depression be simply a side effect of withdrawal? I have no doubt that it is at least partially responsible, but I really hope that it is the only culprit. If so, will my brain chemistry get back to normal/is there any way to speed up the process?

Thanks, and wishing you all good mental health :)

[Rhirhi87]

Hang in there, we are proud of you, and are here if you need us, Im two weeks, and belive me there was times I want to fly off a roof top, but  the love of a good woman and afew supporters here helped me over come, hang in there and be strong .
Darrin

[suzieq8462]

Thanks everyone for your support. My doc knows about my recent escapades, I am seeing her on Monday which cannot come soon enough. I guess the hardest part is the suicidal bit; wanting to die every moment of the day can really hinder functioning. As far as the meds go, I have been on so many different ones in the past year--lamictal, lithium, welbutrin, abilify to name a few. I don't know if none of them worked or I was just constantly changing meds that I never knew what was working, but lexapro has always given me the best reaction. Maybe it is time to talk with a doc about it though. Hopefully this will pass soon, and thanks again for the support :)

[cheesystick]

just wanted to say good for you for dealing with the physical withdrawls.. the hardest part is over.. just keep your chin up and know that it gets better every minute... thats what helps me. knowing that every minute that i make it is one step in the right direction. i am 20 years old and trying to get over an addiction to opiates as well.
i think you should talk to your doctor... maybe a new medicine will help with the thoughts and stuff... you should talk to him. he could give you something else. just give it a shot :)
proud of you!

-B

[vicki595]

Hey Sweetie~

I agree with the gals above~  It's best to speak with the doctor prescribing the Lexapro.
Depression is a very common side effect of opiate withdrawal. Your brain chemicals need to get back in working order and that takes time. In the mean time ,all the usual
things apply here: get enough sleep,eat well,and take vitamins. All the B vits are especially helpful for feeding your brain.  Speak with your doctor soon,okay?

Vicki

[LeaAnn807]

You totally need to talk to a doctor.  If you are having suicidal thoughts, you must get some help before it's too late!  This is nothing to play around with, ok?  Talk to someone in person soon!  I want you to be ok!!! : )

[cathy5841]

welcome to the forum...i agree with IBKLEEN, your doc mite need to change you to a different anti-depressant.  go talkwith your doctor and tell them all and see what they suggest...and do keep taling, we will help you through this.

[IBKleen]

Hi suzie,

Glad you found your way here. Unfortunately, withdrawal from opiates can cause depression. I hear so many people complain of it.

Because of your BPD, I strongly suggest that you speak with your doctor and confess your drug abuse. As hard as that may seem, your goal is to get well. My fear is that you will begin with the opiates again to combat the depression and all that will do is start you on a merry-go-round for a long time. Now is a good time to deal with it, get honest about it and get help for it.

After 5 years on Lexapro it may be time for a change in medication. If you come clean with your doctor, he may just suggest something.

This is simply my opinion. there are many members here who will share their opinions and experience as well so hang in there and listen to everyone.

Best of luck and keep on talking, it does help.