I would like some opinions in regard to antidepressants, society, and the self...?

Question

I have been diagnosed with chronic dysthymia and constant, low-level anxiety. Since then, I have been having some issues regarding my identity. I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this. As I'm taking these antidepressants, I've definitely noticed an improvement in reasoning capabilities, but at the same time, I feel like my emotions have changed, almost like I'm thinking like someone else. Am I really my own person, or are we simply the sum of the chemicals composing our brain? Is society getting to the point that, when someone is deemed "undesirable," they'll be medicated into complacency? I've been mulling on this for a long time, and it's beginning to seriously bother me. I mean, I knew what was causing the depression, but I couldn't change it, so they drugged me. Does it matter who I am if we can drug me into "normal" and not caring that I cannot claw my way to where I need to be? Might I as well be a drone? Why is okay to do this, but not to end it all?

Answer 1

I don't think it is unreasonable to be feeling the way you are feeling. There is nothing wrong with taking medication. Anti depressants can sometimes leave you in a limbo state where you are not quite sure of what you are feeling. Almost a numbness or a fog you just can't quite find your way thru.
I am glad these drugs exist. But I do understand your feelings and hope that you can get thru this transitional period

Answer 2

Antidepressants work differently on different people. It takes a long time to find the right one or you might get lucky. I take two antidepressants that work great for me right now. I have a therapist and a counselor. They are wonderful . I have seen them both for a long time. It took a long time to find these great people. But the most important part is God. It all works together in my life. I think there are some neat answers on healthy place.com/communities/depression/dysthymia.asp.Lots of love,
Cathy

Answer 3

I was also diagnosed as being dysthymic. I have taken antidepressants for many years. If I had diabetes, I wouldn't question my need for insulin. That's how I choose to look at antidepressants. If managing the serotonin levels in my brain helps me cope with life, then that's what I'll do. You can email me if you'd like to talk about this. I think of these things every day myself.

Answer 4

Is society getting to the point that, when someone is deemed "undesirable," they'll be medicated into complacency?

This is already happening with ADD kids that are medicated so that they're manageable in class.