I need some advice

Im dealing with depression and anxiety for some years now..Two years ago I thought I'll pay a visit to a psychologist and see what the go is..anyway ended up she telling me that she didn't know what else to do to help me..after hearing that, I stopped seeing her from that day..I've been battling this on my own upto now and my question is, can I do this without taking meds..I've never been on any medication and will not...I just want to know if anyone else out there is battling without meds..I read on here that meds havent been much help to others, either made them worse or having to change meds or having severe side affects, feeling better then get worse again and so on.. it just has me thinking is it possible without any meds?..I mean I'm down severely with all the symptoms but I'm fighting with hope and what I'm asking is, because it's an illness, does it require meds?..am I going to develop anything else by not treating it with drugs?..Thanks.

[Janieliza]

Firstly I'm shocked you were told this by a psychologist. I only had meds for a short time and I didn't feel they were helping but in hindsight they probably were. If a doctor can find one that suits you then they can be a positive in someone with depressions life. There are pros and cons with anything and what may work for one may not work for you and this is what the psych/doctor should help decide. Please try and see someone again and I'll tell you why. You know you don't feel quite right, it can't be left as left untreated can lead to more anxiety and distress for you. I'm all for no meds and I've managed myself with things I've picked up but I had seen various docs first and they were aware I was stopping the meds. Like with many drugs...there can be side effects or indeed none. I was sooo tired, it wore off as the drug balanced itself out. Others told me I was easier to get on with(their benefit!?!?) And I wasn't as anxious so they were working. I didn't go down the benzodiazepines road as you can become addicted and that's another road to cope with. I can only offer you my experience but I honestly would prefer it if you spoke to a pro.

[gogogirl in reply to Janieliza]

You could always try to see another psych if that is what you want. If the psych said that he/she could not help- why work in this field?

[HearYou]

Just wanted to say hello and say I'm sorry you find yourself in this situation.

I need and I am very much improved with medication by the right neuropsychiatrist and pain management doctor. I have anxiety, depression, and nightmares that are related to a form of PTSD. I could not have worked without that help and I continue with them for a decent quality of life.

There are members of this venue would do without medication, and I hope you hear from a number of them. Take care of yourself and don't give up.

[yosefo50]

I've been dealing with anxiety and depression for more than 50 years. It's the meds that keep me sane. I had relapsed and had to change meds, fortunately, it works for me. Recently I had another relapsed and had to change meds. Now I'm looking at MBCT to help me stop this roller coaster ride. I'm tired of dealing with with anxiety and depression that's why I'll try therapy too with meds.