teen depression

[caroleD267]

my 15 year old suffers from depression and anxiety but because of a history of suicide in our family doctors are hesitant to give her meds. i don't like the idea of my daughter taking anti depressants but her sadness overwhelms the entire family. she is in therapy but i don't think its helping. i feel like she is disappearing right before my eyes. why would someone feel hopeless without reason?

[AJRC323]

I feel hopeless without reason a lot, and it frustrates the hell out of me. If therapy alone isn't helping, you need to try the meds. My depression started when I was 15, and here I am now at 23 barely able to function most days, but I've learned in this long period what should not be done, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask me.

On the medication part, I'd try Zoloft first. It's one of the "cleaner" SSRI's and generally side effects are mild, for most people anyway. Oh, and do some research. I've done a lot on meds and the symptoms of this disease and it's helped me at least understand a lot. Good luck!

[vicki595]

Hi-  She has a reason, you just don't know what it is.  There's not always a solid explanation for what can disrupt our brain chemicals.

This is the substance abuse forum. There is an anxiety and depression forum where you might get some support. Click on "forums" at the top left of this page and you'll see it alphabetically.  

Good luck!