In relation to my previous question:?

Question

"Do i need to see a psychologist?" I am 23, and i am stricktly against depression medecins for any youth. That will bring even more probs, since these medecins help them with their worse decisions as commiting sucide, when under load of depression. So be carefull guys.

Answer 1

You're wise to be aware of the problems that can be associated with anti-depressants.

You could, though, at least see a professional to talk about what you have going on and tell them you don't want medication. In fact, tell them that when you make the appointment and ask if that's something they'd be ok with.

I know there are people who feel miserable and who see a psychologist and come away feeling that without taking medication it was a waste of time; but if the psychologist at least helped you figure out whether or not you're clinically depressed at all or whether it could just be a slump in your life even that could be helpful to you.

When it comes down to it, though, your choices are to call someone who is willling to deal with you even if you are against medication or try to go it alone. If you going it alone hasn't helped until now, it would seem at least worth a try to call a psychologist or two (if the first one wasn't someone you could relate well to).

The only other thing you could do is look for some good, solid, books on "tricks" on dealing with a low mood or depression, try to make sure you add as many small joys to each day as possible (small things like listening to upbeat or pretty music, getting fresh air and sun, burning a potpourri tart that you particulary like, going out for a cup of coffee or breakfast by yourself, etc.) Also, you could try just telling yourself to stop every time you start thinking negative stuff about people or a situation. Stop that thinking and instead either replace it with a meaningless thought or else try to see something positive.

It is said that fish with Omega III fatty acids can improve mood, so you try eating salmon regularly. I have found that a tuna salad sub seems to improve my mood when I'm frazzled as well. You may want to look into which other foods help as well.

Make lists about things in life - your personal business, your health, your finances, etc. Make lists about what has to be done and what you will do by what date. Make lists about every possible thing in your life that is bothering you, and then make lists about what can be changed now and what can be changed later etc.

Even with the kind of stuff above, though, I don't think its a bad idea to get a reading (from a professional) on whether the problem is within you or around you (in your life) or both.

Even if you have clinical depression there are ways of managing your life that can allow you to get things done and minimize the negative thinking if you understand what you're dealing with and find ways to compensate (for example, breaking down tasks into simple ones and doing those when you're in your better mood).

The world is full of people who may try to convince you to risk the side-effects of medication, but I"m not one of those. Many times people find the medication doesn't help anyway. Since you don't want to take medication, though, it seems you need to take advantage of every possible help (and that would include talking to a psychologist who specializes in this type of thing in order to get that reading on whether your problem is within you or around you - and maybe some tips on improving things a little at a time).

I know people who try seeing a psychologist and come away feeling there's no point in following up. Just seeing someone could help, though - and if its a waste of your time you'll figure that out and no real harm done.

Answer 2

I am not in favor of medications either except as a last resort. Try the healthy way first and see if you can make a difference for yourself with nutrition, exercise, getting enough sleep and altering your environment so you feel happy in your space.
Good luck!