Not taking anti-depressants because it'll go on your record?

Question

I know that I'm clinically depressed, manic depressive, a dysthymiac, and quite possibly psychotic depressive (which IS NOT the same as being psychotic.)

I went to see a doctor a few years back as a teenager, and she gave me Zoloft. They didn't work. Both she and I wanted to increase the dosage since what I was taking was the lowest at 25mg, if I remember correctly. She doubled it, but also as a side note, told me that this will go in my record. Scared, I took the pills, but after taking them once, I never took them again.

Back then I guess it was a mild depression, not really understanding much. But I knew there was something wrong with me because I was having such extreme episodes of melancholia.

Now, 5 years later, I think it manifested into something much bigger, and something much worse. What should I do? Should I take the pills again if I have to? I know I'll have to talk to a psychotherapist or psychologist eventually, but what if I have to take the pills again as well?

Answer 1

There is NOTHING wrong with taking meds if you have a serious problem that interfers with your daily lifestyle. As long as you continue therapy so that you can worth through your issues, you're being a responsible patient, so there's nothing to be ashamed of. I know people who take Zoloft who are just a little stressed out (which I think is a little much).

As far as the record goes, it's my understanding that your patient record is confidential, and potential employers or anyone else would not legally have the right to look at it. I would ask your therapist about this to make sure, but it seems that you should be okay.

Answer 2

I don't know what she was talking about unless she meant your medical record and NO ONE will have access to that. The only people who will know if you take anti-depressants are your doctor (and/or therapist), your insurance company and the pharmacy. None of them are permitted to let anyone know about it.

There may be some employers who would ask what medications you are taking. This is illegal in most if not all states. Antidepressants are not an illegal drug and will not show up the usual drug test most employers give you.

I take an antidepressant and have never had anyone ask me about it. Personally I would not care who knew but it really is not anyone's business.

I tried to go along without the medication and got worse so I am happier with the medication. Everyone does not need medication and it is not for everyone. However if you need it and if it helps then go ahead and take it and don't worry about it going on any record.

Answer 3

If you have a medical condition- and you do- then take the medicine. It will be a great deal better than allowing your depression to get in the way of your job performance. You may want to let your employer know so the appropriate allowances can be made. As for a record, I don't have the foggiest notion what that 'doctor' was talking about.

Answer 4

If the pills are going to help you, then you should take them again if you have to. What she means by "going on the record" is that they have to notate it in your personal file that she has prescribed such and such medication at such a dose, that way they can keep track of what they give you and when to make sure that they do not mix meds that could create a harmful mix for your body.

Answer 5

Do whatever you have to do in order to get better. I think your main concern should be your quality of life, not what goes on your record. Medical records are not public information and will not come up on background checks for employers, if that is your concern. There is a stigma attached to taking mental medication, and people sometimes do not get the help they need because of this. If you were diabetic, you would likely take insulin without worrying or questioning it. The same should hold true for mental illnesses. Do what you need to do to feel better and have a good life, good luck.

Answer 6

hi there
i feel you shouldnt worry about your record and should start taking the pills, or other ones that work for you. i took 50mg, worked well then i reduced went back to taking it everyday and now 100mg and it does nothing.
you sound like ur Depression is severe so may need a higher dose too.
As for your record, my employers have never had a problem with it b4 and i wrote I took antidepressants and nobody minded. i needed time off work and told my boss straight and he was very supportive, it is very common these days.

the important thing is to be mentally well, no job is more important than that!

Answer 7

Here is the thing. The Diagnosis is already on your chart. It's just "Untreated" right now. So you have nothing to loose by getting the treatment that could maybe save your life.

Also-- charts are pretty hard to get access to. So if you are thinking about child custody, housing, work or school-- no problemo.

But right now you are in the worst situation. You feel badly, and your medical record shows an untreated diagnosis.

Answer 8

Zoloft makes a world of difference for me! I too, realize that it goes into my medical record, but without it, I wouldn't be healthy enough to do much of anything anyway. I suggest that you get on the meds and stay on them for a while, at least.

Most jobs won't be affected by having that in your record. A pilot or FBI agent or something like that would be bothered, but not most regular jobs.

Answer 9

If you don't take it you will only get worse and then what difference will it make if its on your record. You will not be able to carry on any sort of good job anyway. so take the pills, get better then focus on your future. the future that you will have because of taking the pills.Your mental health is whats most important.

Answer 10

If they helped, take them again. What record are you talking about? Millions take antidepressants. Your record is nothing to worry about. I have taken them forever and no one has ever mentioned my record.