Tricyclic Antidepressants

Needing Support

Question:

Hi, my name is Stacey, I don’t know where to start.  I have been severely depressed since Aug 95.  And have also been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, which is somewhat under control with Chlordiazapoxide.  I am frustrated because I have been on every antidepressant under the sun and nothing seems to have helped the depression.  My Psych. put me on 600mg of lithium, 75mg of Trimipramine just over a week ago, (I don’t think he really knows what is wrong with me yet) so far, there has been no improvement. I have these violent mood swings that change by the hour.  One minute I’m fine, an hour later I want to kill myself and I am afraid I might hurt someone else.  My husband is a very patient man but even he is getting really frustrated with my moods.  I haven’t been able to work since Nov. I understand that medicine takes time to work, but the frustration of not knowing what is happening to me and why this all started out of the blue and wondering if I will ever be myself again is driving me crazy.  I just wish someone had a simple answer.  I am 24 and do not want to be like this for the rest of my life – I am scared!  I promised my husband I would not kill myself, but he has locked all the meds. away just in case.  I don’t trust myself either!  I probably sound like I am just blabbering but I have so much to say and don’t know who to say it to.  I am frustrated because as supportive as my friends and family are, they do not know the torment that I am really going through.  If there is anyone out there with any advice or encouragement, I could really use it. Thanks Stacey

Response:

I am 26 years old and have just recently started to come out of a pretty serious depression  preceded by a manic episode.  I have been taking Prozac for about a month.  I am not completely out of the woods yet, but can see the other side.  Just wanted to let you know that I can understand your worries about having to go through this for the rest of your life. I have felt the same frustrations.  I hope this helps you atleast a little bit to know that it can be done.  Hang in there. Jason

Response:

I know what know about being normal one minute and crazy the next.  I am diagnosed as rapid-cycling bipolar, but it took them three months just to figure the bi-polar part. Gotta go.

Response:

Filed under: Imipramine