my depression is ruining my marriage and life. I am on lexapro 20mg. I have already switched meds twice.?

Question

Can anyone give me advice on what I should do now?

Answer 1

My sister was like this. I am not one to push meds but she is taking Cymbalta, after trying 5 different meds, and it really works for her. And her Dr. has her on a much higher dose. Have you told your Dr. that what you're taking isn't working? And remember it does take time for the meds to take fill effect. Maybe you need a break for a little while. Just get away and rediscover yourself while you're waiting.

Answer 2

I think the only advise you can really go to is a psychiatrists. The thing is different drugs have different affects on different people even people with the same diagnosis. I know one lady who switched several meds and got shock treatment but nothing helped. Finally the Psychiatrist sent her to the university for testing and it turned out that there was also a personallity disorder that was not treatable with medication. I am not saying that this is the case for you but you will probably have to try a few things to get on the right meds and maybe even shock treatment (actually works pretty good). Also continue to go to counciling and I would suggest going with your husband as well. By that I mean you should seek marriage councilling but you should also have your therapists speak to your husband privately because they can often shed light on the situation in a way that you don't see yourself and that will help your treatment greatly. Depression does tend to be very destructive for the people around you because they have to live with something they don't understand. Especially for men who alway to "fix things". Try to be fare to him and when you fell well enough tell him him how it is for you and apoligize for anything you said that might have hurt him and tell him that you love him. It is really hard to deal with but some people do get over it. Some people seem to become it though. Live there life like depression is there identity. Don't do that. It is an illness not you. You have to be proactive and keep fighting.

Answer 3

Your use of meds is your decision. You might try to research the odds of them helping a depressed person. Here's some general advice I give people:

anyone who is depressive should take a good multivitamin most days with a meal. while you are at it take a calcium-magnesium-zinc pill, unless by some miracle you get enough calcium. (or you take a calcium-based antacid) also, get lots of beneficial fatty acids - particularly omega-3. take a couple grams of fish oil daily.

then try getting lots of sunlight. get some vigorous cardiovascular exercise as often as you can. practise good posture and learn a little about basic yoga postures and t'ai chi warmups.

eat a varied very high protein, high fiber diet low in saturated fats and refined carbs. shun additives and preservatives. you want fresh whole foods, not overcooked. eat leafy greens and colourful vegetables. eat tree nuts,eat fish, eat more fish, the more nutritious fruits (berries, etc.), herbs, legumes, and some grains. don't eat sweets or drink sweet/sour drinks. instead eat fruit. diet really really really matters. it has a slow cumulative effect.

stay hydrated. this can be a matter of simply avoiding certain foods that dehydrate you. try to get plenty of regular, restful sleep.

that's all that comes to mind. you might wanna check if you notice any effect from ginseng pills. If you use caffeine, try 3 weeks off. If that's no good, consider optimal dosage and timing relative to work/sleep.

(but don't mess with ginseng if you are on anything a psychiatrist gives you... might not be tested yet)

Answer 4

I would seriously pray to the Lord and seek some spiritual intervention ALONG with therapy and medicine. Faith can be a true healer in situations that seem endless. I hope this helps. I'm not suggesting in any way that you discontinue medical and mental treatment, but incorporate prayer into your treatment as well. Depression is an illness that is over emphasized in the mental incapacity, but diminished in the overall health profession. I believe that people can be healed from depression through faith like any other physical illness. I hope things work out!

Answer 5

Dear Geno,

As you probably know, Lexapro is a SSRI. Maybe you do not a low serotonin deficiency and what you lack is the vital feelings of personal dignity, or self-worth.

I believe you need to figure out the root of your depression -- and counseling is the best way. You just need to find the source!


Excercise, find a hobby, and volunteer. Good luck to you.

Answer 6

Taking the anti depressive medicine for a long period od time is not so good for your health.After awhile,you do check tour mood again with the same Doctor that prescibed you,by doing so,you will know the proper time to change or stop any presciption.the food is normal.

Answer 7

I take welbutrin [sp] 300 mg. It helps me alot, but then again I'm only 13.
You should really talk to your doctor and tell him/her that it's not working, and ask about getting help if you want it.
Also, if I were you, I'd talk to your wife and ask her to bear with you and that you're trying to get your life back in order and you need her support.
I hope things work out for you.

Answer 8

Sometimes it takes awhile to find the right medication. Hang in there. Also, do things for others..givers are happier than takers and it gets you moving and gets your mind off focusing on yourself

Answer 9

Check with your doctor!
You may need another dosage or another medicine.
Tel them what you feel, and they can help you.
If they say that they can't help or don't know, try another doctor.
Don't ever give up, keep trying.

Answer 10

I recommend that you ask your doctor for Clexa. It works very well on me & most of the other antidepessaints do not. Try it hopeful it will work for you.Good luck!!