My sister is better - wanted to share her story as hope!

[Chaource]

Hi all,I just wanted to say thank you so so much to all of you who replied to my messages when my sister was unwell. It was undoubtedly the hardest time of my life and your messages of support meant so much and helped me to.stst strong and hopeful for her.

I'm case it is helpful to share in case anyone develop something similar)loved one does, when she starting weaning (or a few weeks after she first started taking the antidepressant), she became unwell every month for a couple of days and felt severely depressed/suicidal and attempted suicide three times.

One doctor (the amazing Dr Seneviratne) was the only doctor who seemed to understand what the issue was. She predicted that her body wants her period to return and as it hadn't returned her hormones were going crazy.

After taking lithium and quietipine and then getting her period back she started to feel better (but we think it was likely starting her period back as the Dr suggested).

I'm a bit worried about what will happen when they reduce her meds in 6 months/1 year but she is back to her old happy self now - it's a miracle!

If anyone ever needs a chat I'm always happy to talk. People on this forum were so helpful for me. I so nearly lost hope as she was getting worse and worst up to 10 months post partum and only got out of hospital at 12 months post partum. Please don't ever lose hope!

I would love to advocate for more research in this under researched topic - women deserve so much better!

If anyone ever experiences something similar I'd love to know (if you'd be happy to share) as I want to collect experiences of this rare illness.

Thanks again for everyone's support - can't thank you enough

[WonderWomanUK]

What fantastic news Chaource

I’m so sorry your sister (and you and loved ones) experienced this. It sounds like you were an absolutely amazing support for your sister and she’s lucky to have you.

I had PPP in November 2023 and was so lucky with the support network within my family - I would say we are closer than ever because of it.

Don’t worry about reducing medication just yet, professionals won’t do it unless your sister is ready. And when they do it’s slowly and she’ll be closely monitored (I was on Olanzapine for 4 months and was weaned off - I’m now reducing off lithium and nearly medication free).

Sending lots of best wishes to your family.

[Maria_at_APP Moderator]

Hi Dear Chaource,

Thank you so much for taking the time to update us on the progress of your sister. Such happy news and I am so glad for you both.

Be reassured as WonderWomanUK says when it is time to wean off the medication they will do it in a very monitored fashion just when your sister is ready for it.

I am sure she is making new lovely memories now every day, and with time that period she was unwell will be less and less at the forefront as the good times will be many more.

Take very good care, loved to hear from you

Maria