I am Not going to call my doctor today for antidepressants

[Lila]

Hi everybody,
I am looking for advice/encouragement.
I have a bunch of total stressors in my life. Like right now my hands are shaking. I have had major depressive disorders in my life, and SAD, and dysthemia. Now I am just shaking because of some issues I have to deal with, or just go thru.
I was going to go get some GABA.
I am taking about 200 mgs, divided, of 5htp, which, for me, is a great alcohol inhibitor. I just don't like alcohol anymore with this stuff in my system. But it hasn't been this great mood lifter.
I take vitamins. If I took GABA, how much?
Or should I just go on ADs?
But I am excited about getting thin, now that I'm not drinking, and that stuff makes you gain weight, which I don't want.
I did get EP Oil, which I will start taking today.
Is anyone on prozac and wonderfully happy and calm and vibrant and all that?
Lila

[keeta]

Hi Lila,
I have no answers for you, but wanted you to know you are not alone, suffering with depression.

As for anti -d's...I have just spent the most horrific couple months getting OFF Effexor. I am leary to try another one.

I will be watching the replies here for advise...as I am kind of at a stand still, not knowing how to proceed. I worry lately that a prescription may not be my answer. That there may be other ways to deal with, treat and cope with the chemical imbalance I obviously have.

My plan of attack....keep up all suppliments and be open to trying new ones.

Eat healthy, and stay away from chemically laden foods, sugars and white startches. (except baked potatoes....love'em!)

exercise...good, fast paced long walks, and strength training...light yoga.

Keep my thinking POSITIVE. Be aware of my negative thoughts, and stop them...yell interally at the "bad thoughts" to stop....and think of something good...even if it isn't related to whatever was troubling me.

More importantly, stop self medicating, hiding from my life, with alcohol (this will be the hardest).

I hope you find whatever you need to feel better!

big hugs,
K

[MyOwnWoman]

Lila,
If you need ADs to keep you from doing harm to yourself get them.

That said, if you can find a supplement and lifestyle routine to help you that's what I'd recommend. I don't know how long you've been sober - but perhaps part of what is going on now is you are learning to cope with your life and stress and all without numbing yourself. That can be pretty intense for some of us!!

Do eat extremely well. If you need advice on food let me know. (basically cut out all refined and processed foods. and minimal sugar!!)

Exercise.

Journal positive thoughts and feelings of gratitude. Those of us with a history of depression have to completely rewire the way our brains work and thoughts ride

Read books that help you to be more positive, maybe something to help you explore your spiritual side. A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle (the one Oprah's been all over) is excellent. I'd also recommend "Where Ever You Go There You Are" - kind of a primer for meditating.

Take care.

[Lila]

OK - I'll do all that stuff - thanks for responding both of you - it is so nice to be able to post here and have understanding and all. I just got some more supplements and feel sort of positive.
Lila

[FloridaBoy]

Lila,

sam-E worked for the depression I had. It may be worth trying. No side effects at all.

FB

[Lila]

all right, thanks FB. I will first try the natural route, then go for stronger. It is true that not drinking makes depression go away - it all comes out after. Maybe I'll give it a month.
Lila

[FloridaBoy]

Originally Posted by Lila

all right, thanks FB. I will first try the natural route, then go for stronger. It is true that not drinking makes depression go away - it all comes out after. Maybe I'll give it a month.
Lila

Depression was the by product of drinking for me too. It was a nasty cycle. Also, I do not count AF days anymore because I am now a non-drinker. The longer I am AF the better I feel.

[greeneyes]

Might try St. John's Wort. I noticed that you made no mention of exercise. Is that part of your plan?

[jinja]

Hi Lila

Just lost my post!! Arghhhh

A brief recreation. I am taking loads of supps to get off Effexor. Brain zaps are almost non-existent and the supps are to help restore neurotransmitters to ‘normal’ levels. I don’t intend to take this many forever and will look to adjust diet to reduce some of the supps i.e. turkey for serotonin.

Basically, what I have learnt –

GABA to ‘chill’, +/- 2000mg per day (evenings), tingely feeling on skin for about 15mins, 30 mins after taking. Should promote good sleep, if sleep is poor reduce dose.

Serotonin for ‘happy’ – 5htp, SAMe, TMG (the precursor of SAMe & cheaper)

Dopamine & noradrenalin for ‘feel good’ - phenylalanine & tyrosine

Adrenalin for ‘motivation’ – phenylalanine & tyrosine

All of these neurotransmitters need to work well to keep a ‘stable’ mental attitude. Also it is essential to take a good multivit to facilitate the above.

Pls PM me if you are interested in more info. Hope this helps.

Take care
Xxx

[Lila]

ok - I'll see what happens.