I can help when I'm here at this group...

[steve2470]

I'm a mental health professional but not a psychiatrist. Therefore, I cannot tell you the "official" explanation or rationale for "psychiatrist" things but I'll do the best I can. Please don't flame me for the abuses and follies in my industry. I won't apologize for them. I'll just do what I can to help when I'm here, which I will announce periodically.

[Droopy]

1. Welcome

I wouldn't flame you. Mental health professionals have assisted me in getting my life back. From the psychiatric nurses to the psychiatrists to the therapists they've all helped to save my life.

[no name no slogan]

2. Also glad you're here

It's good to hear all sides of things, just to have the information.

I also second Droopy's acknowledgement. Mental health professionals have a hell of a job, and I admire anybody who can do it-- because not everybody CAN do it!

:hi:

[DemExpat]

3. Welcome, Steve.

All help, knowledge, and experience is welcome here! :D

:hi:

DemEx

[smirkymonkey]

4. Hi Steve! What is your opinion of antidepressants?

I know you aren't an MD, but I was wondering if you had an opinion.

I went off Paxil three months ago, but I am struggling to keep my head above water emotionally. Part of me thinks I should "bottom out" on the depression and "face" my demons, yet there is another part of me that feels like I can't face another day feeling this way.

I have an appointment w/ a Psych in another week, but I know he will recommend that I go back on the medication. I was just wondering what your experience was with depression/medication.

[steve2470]

5. most people benefit from them. With that said, .....

sometimes it takes many weeks to get the meds and their dosages correct. About 20% of depressed patients are "refractory" to meds, meaning they are not substantially helped. In short, I think they're great but you have to have a lot of patience and get the ones with the "best" side effects.

[smirkymonkey]

6. Thanks!

:)

[DemExpat]

7. Sorry to hear you are (still) feeling so awful, smirkymonkey....

Keep us posted on how you are doing, OK?

:hug:

DemEx

[smirkymonkey]

8. Thanks DemExpat!

I am trying to see some spirtual meaning in my suffering, but I just don't know whether to ride it out or surrender to the fact that I might need more help than I am getting.

Thank you for your concern! :hug: