New Year, new me...?

[Ergu122]

Hello everyone. I joined the site and my first post was over Christmas. This is only my second post, it has taken a while to clear my head a little. I wasn't great over Christmas.

Anyhow, I saw my GP yesterday and I've agreed to try medication for my severe depression and anxiety (Fluoxetine 20mg). I have resisted medication up to this point but given the severity of my depression, I felt I have to throw everything at it. I've also been referred to an emotional well-being centre for some counselling / CBT.

A couple of you may remember I worked part-time for my partner and my depression really was impacting on our relationship. Despite my negative thoughts, he does love me very much. So, I'm not going to work for a while, clear my mind and try my hardest to get well once and for all and stop these cycles of depression. I'm lucky to have the support of a good man and the chance to be able for everything to stop for a while.

Interestingly, GP is also doing full bloods to check thyroid, menopause, liver function and a few others. I've convinced myself I am seriously, physically ill as well so hopefully this will reduce some of my anxiety.

I'd be interested in anyone's experience, positive or otherwise on Fluoxetine and if they did help. I'm back at my GP in two weeks time but aware I may not have seen any improvement in that time. I've also given up caffeine and alcohol a week ago.

A belated Happy New Year to you all xx

[Hidden]

Wow you are going full tilt Ergu! Well done for taking the first steps to dealing with your depression. You sound very strong and very level headed. You will beat this with your determination.

We are here for you anytime so please use us if we can help at all. Well done. Bev xx

[Photogeek]

Hi there and that's great that you have made a start. With Depression there

Is no magic pill and I think antidepressants help of course, I am on them. On their

Own I'm not sure how effective they are . They work if you do other things

As well, maybe some talking therapy, lifestyle changes . You need to get to

Looking at why your so unhappy and what you can do about it.

Antidepressants take at least 2 weeks to work. They can give you he clarity

To look honestly and searchingly at your own life. Reading your first post

Seemed to say that your self esteem and confidence are quite low, , so try and get

Some therapy too. Good luck with it all and keep in touch.

Hannah. Xx

[Stilltrying_]

Hi and thanks for the update. You are taking all the right steps and as you say it will be a few weeks before you can see the results of the fluoxetine and cutting out alcohol and caffeine will definately help but of course will take time to settle and for you to see the "true effects" of all these meaures.

I have taken fluoxetine in the past; it made me less inclined to cry and every instance and seemed to give me greater resilience, although all individuals respond differently to medications and it can be a case of getting the right meds at the right dose . It is wonderful you have the love and support of your partner and I am wishing you all the best. Hope the site can be supportive.

Gemma X

[jue1]

Hi, Well I did try Fluoxetine but only 5mg for 3 months and they had little effect felt slightly improved but had to go back onto my old meds :- citalopram 10mg which work for me. I think its just finding the right one for you also you have to be careful because some chemist buy in cheap drugs. And change suppliers which do not help. I tend to stick with a good pharmacy which continue to use the same supplier ie Asda

Tried local pharmacy but keep changing suppliers to cheaper brands which did affect me and recovery.

Anyway that's only my experience - stick with your pathway and see how you feel in a couple of months you can always change and discuss alternatives with your GP.

Just see how you go , you sound like you have support around you good luck jue1x