How to treat depression with medication?

Question

I've been depressed for a while and I think I need some help getting through it. I want to try therapy plus medication, but most psychiatrists won't treat me unless they can see me once a week, which I can't afford.

I know I will benefit in the long run from seeing a shrink, but I also think I can benefit in the short run from medication.

Can I get medication from a psychiatrist without having to seem them every week?

Answer 1

I understand how you feel and I think it's great that you're open to medication management and psychotherapy to improve your mental health. However, in the beginnning with all medication management plans, it's imperative that you get the right combinations of meds, dosage and be monitored regularly in the begining.

Treating depression is much more complex then treating an infection, like a cold or flu. You're going to need to be an active participant in giving the Dr. information on your moods, thoughts, side effects and overall state of well being.

The mood disorder that your diagnosed with, will ultimately determine the type of medication your prescribed. Each medication comes with a theraputic schedule for dosage and some require close supervision, as improper dosage changes can have detremental results with nasty side effects.

The point is, in the beginning, you'll have to be held on a short leash and be monitored until your Dr. figures out how you will react to certain meds/dosages and ultimately what blend will provide the best results. Once you are at a theraputic dose where your brain has soaked in enough of the drug and you experience positive results, you'll only have to see your psychiatrist for maintenance purposes, for as little as once a month.

I understand the money issue, I've been through it myself. However, if you were diagnosed with cancer and you had to choose a more expensive and effective treatment vs. no treatment, what would you do? It doesn't matter how, but you would certainly find a way to pay for it. Mental health is equally important to your psychical health and you should prioritize it as if you would a terminal illness.

Granted, I've spent tons of cash on therapy and it stressed me out plenty. Right now, I've come from what I felt was a bottomless hole of depression, to the point where I look forward to every day! I would have spent triple the amount I payed if I had to. You really can't put a price on your health.

I hope this helps and good luck in getting better!

Answer 2

I know what your going through. I'm bipolar. I take meds and see a therapist both. The answer to your question is you need to get in touch with a place called Mental Health Mental Retardation Center. They will help you with your meds and therapy if you need it. Also they will work with you on a payment plan that best helps you. They are a good organization and they are helping me. Good luck and God Bless.

Answer 3

I am not sure about what a therapist does as far as meds., but your primary care physician can prescribe meds for you. I take Paxil, and have been on it for almost 3 years. I have seen my Dr. 3 times during the past years. Please- do not order anything online without your doctor's approval. You may actually worsen your current problems. It is way to risky to mess with things of that nature.
Good Luck
mamaofthesweetest4

Answer 4

there are mental health places that will see you for no charge you need too look on the Internet or the phone book you should be able to see a psychologist which is less expensive also your family doctor could put you on medication

Answer 5

I watched this movie called The Secret. It really opened my eyes I really enjoy my life now and it keeps getting better. The movie is about the Laws of Attraction. If you really want something, think about it all the time, and imagine you already have it. It will come true it has already many times for me.

Answer 6

Most mental health facilities do have a indigent program. Which means someone like Red cross will pick up the tab. Call the closest facility near you and see if they have this program.

Answer 7

You might be able to get medication from a family practice doctor.

Answer 8

go see a doctor, I use prozac and they have a generic brand now that is much cheeper and works wonderful. It saved my life, I am so much happier and not such a *****. I have been using it for nearly 8 years now.

Answer 9

no, not all psy drs require you to visit weekly to get meds...you should look into seroquile. Its an anti-psychotic but it really helps out in depression and sleepless nights