A Head Scratcher

[phatzac145]

I have received treatment for depression and anxiety since I was 13 (24 y/o now). I have received countless hours of counseling, a smorgasbord of psychotropic medications, and seven electro-convulsive shock therapy (ECT) sessions. These professionals could never definitely diagnose with me with anything but depression and anxiety and only made my condition worse. I have sought out the help of a licensed herbalist and most recently, a chiropractor (he also practices alternative medicine), who have both prescribed herbal supplements. Most recently, I have undergone treatment from an otolaryngologist (ENT) who conducted a series of labs that revealed environmental allergies, food intolerance/leaky gut syndrome, and low thyroid. I have since been on an allergy elimination diet and taking 30 mg of Armour Thyroid. However, I have noticed no difference in my aforementioned mental symptoms.  

I have done all I know to do. I have went to all my regularly scheduled appointments, taken all my prescribed medications/supplements, and changed many aspects of my life. I have quit smoking, diet adjustments including the abstinence of all substances containing caffeine and foods persistent to an allergy elimination diet, started to exercise on a regular basis, etc.

I just want my life back, by any means possible. I look forward to any feedback or advice you could provide.

[phatzac145]

It's funny you should mention those two vitamin classes. I have taken both Vitamin B complex and Sam-e in the past, along with a host of other vitamins (magnesium, zinc, B6 etc). I will definitely consider restarting that regimen again. I know I don't get enough of these vitamins in my diet anyways, so supplementing them with vitamins can only help. I wish you the best as you continue to endure with your condition. Thanks for your kind words and advice.    

[WidowRose]

It sounds as though you've had quite a few challenges in your young life. How is your intake of Vitamin B? B vitamins are crucial to mental clarity and brain function. It improves mood and outlook. Adding a B Complex tab to your daily regimen of supplements may help. Consider also that naturally occuring substance in our systems called SAM-E (S-adenosyl methionine). It can not only strengthen brain function and emotional well-being, but it is also a necessary component to our joint health. More and more in this day and age we end up with less and less SAM-E in our system.

I to suffer from Anxiety and Depression (High Functional Agoraphobia with Panic and Anxiety Disorder, which are exacerbated by stress FYI). While I have not been subjected to the tests and procedures you have been, namely because I'm far to stubborn to put up with it, I have had to deal with limitations because of these conditions. Remember that you're not crazy simply because you suffer from an anxiety disorder and depression. Try and keep your stress levels low, start a hobby and journal regularly.

Adding B Vitamins or Sam-e to your daily regimen will certainly make a difference. I hope I've helped in some small way. Keep your head up.

[phatzac145]

Thanks for your thoughtful reply. I honestly don't know if they understand what's going on. I have followed any treatment regimen to a fault and would give anything to get my life in order.

[mkh9]

I am so sorry you have and are going through all this. You should definetly get an explanation of what your diagnosis is. It sounds like you area really doing everything they ask. I guess that is a start.