Depression Resources

Depression quite simply put is a loss or shortage of the seretonin endorphins. Don't feel guilty for what you can't control. It is merely part of your physiology.
Outside stressers don't help. Any changes in those stresses in your life could mean you need changes in your meds.
Let you Dr. know you are not happy with how you feel on Klonopin, there are a lot of medications to consider. It can take time to find the right mix for you, don't give up or settle. There are also a lot of doctors out there if you ever find this one doesn't listen to your needs.
Take the previous contributors advice on the finding a support group. You are doing a lot right by eating right, exercising, seeking help and support.
You are not alone - I love to say that "misery loves company because we 'get' each other so well!"

Most people who take antidepressants go through several before they find the right 'fit'. If you are still suffereing and have fogginess issues, talk to your doctor about switching. My husband went through three different presciptions before finding the one that worked with the fewest side effects.

Tell your doctor prescribing the meds that you need to try something else.
The doctors seem to push what meds the pharmacuetical companies are
trying to push. For example, if the pharm rep drops off a new med then
that is the one they try to push. Whether if fits your needs or not.
So if you know of anyone taking something they feel helps & you don't
feel like they are acting like zombies, ask them what they are taking.
Then ask your dr to prescribe THAT ONE. Be prepared they will fight
you on that & not because it isn't a good fit for you. Sometimes it's because they are tied to that rep & feel they HAVE to push THAT drug
that was dropped off.
Google psychiatrists in your area to see if you can see a different one.
Google support groups in your area.
Try to find time for a brisk 30 min walk daily. If no one to watch the kids,
then buy or rent from library an exercise video.
Call an old friend to talk (sometimes that alone starts to help). Notice I said start. There's not miracle "one thing". Just several building blocks
to help.
Turn on the comedy channel (laughter is the best medicine)
Not just one of these things will help, it's everything & a combo of things.
Can you get any time to yourself? If not, then try to get 30 mins a day.
Sometimes disappearing to the back of the house for 15 mins of alone time when hubby got home helped.
Know that you are not alone.
You are strong. You can and will get through this.
Don't just keep going through it, get help going through it.
Take things one day at a time. (Taking things in smaller chunks of time
helps.)
Hang in there. I am thinking of you!!!!

cognitive behavioral therapy is worthwhile trying. my husband's psychologist and psychiatrist have both recommended the book 'Change Your Thinking'. Sorry I can't remember the author's name, it's a woman, and it's available on Amazon.

You must get better for your children and your husband (as well as yourself!). Depression fallout for families is enormous. Overwhelming, and exhausting. Good luck!

Depression Bipolar Support Alliance - ###-###-####
24 hr info; in FW & in Dallas
also consider nami.org. they have a lotta resources for ppl caring for ppl w/mental health probs but also support groups for those suffering w/depression, anxiety etc.
i'm w/you re: klonopin. i can only take it at night or i just half it. the anxiety's btr w/it but yeah, too zombie-ish. this is a yucky place to be. i'm sorry you're going through it. :(
seems like if depression's the main prob then maybe he'd up your dosage of antidepressants or add another one to what you're taking. you shouldn't still feel THAT bad after taking an antidepressant that works. good luck sweetie, it's hard. hard times are not for all times

One poster suggested having your hormones checked. That is wise, but I would add having your thyroid checked as well. It's a silent culprit that definitely messes with our brain. But make sure the psychiatrist is exploring the reasons for your depression and not just prescribing pills. Is there some unresolved issues in your past? If there isn't, then explore the possibility of a food allergy. For me it was gluten that caused my depression as well as other symptoms. Last, keep going to church and find a Bible study. You said you were exercising and eating correctly, so you are taking care of the body. The soul is just as important, so nourish it as well. Message me if you need someone to chat with. I've been through both clinical depression as well as what I call organic depression.

Have you ever considered Neurotherapy? I know someone who has just started treatment at this place - http://www.neurotherapydallas.com/index.php?option=com_fr... - for depression/anxiety and is starting to feel better after 3-4 weeks of treatment. Their insurance covers it, but that may be unusual.

A., I have been there. I highly recommend that you have your hormone levels checked, specifically testosterone and Vit D. Made a huge difference for me, and the hormone supplements (called Sottepelle) are all natural. I can refer you to an AMAZING female OB/GYN in Flower Mound, or an actual Hormonal Wellness Center in Southlake. Both administer the hormones, and I promise you it will make a difference!! Send me a message if you'd like their contact info or more info. I am also still on Pristique and Wellbutrin (which is a great combo for me), but the added hormone therapy has been very helpful.

Thanks!

i agree with posters about finding the right fit (pill) for you. while i am another one of those that does not like meds if your body truly needs them then its what is best. it looks like the meds are taking longer than you would have expected. from what i understand about my depression and all depression is that once your in that depressed funk for awhile the chemicals in your body/brain actually alter and change so its going to take you awhile to fix and re alter your body/brain back to a happy self again. as far as a source for someone to talk to all i know is the post secret suiside prevention hot line. while i know your not standing on the edge they might have some great help sources for some one you can talk too. good luck. and give it some time, know your body and understand its not going to change overnight. think of it as a woman that gains 50 lbs...she might start a diet but its going to take her awhile to get back to a healthy weight...not a month, if she is lucky two but if she is healthy about it most likely five or six months. i do think you should let your husband know that you dont feel the meds are working and get his take on it. be open to what he has to say. he is living with your depression too and will be able to note the changes the meds have made or if he too feels they arent working well enough. take it day by day. much love for you momma!

Rush Creek Church in Arlington has a counseling center. It's $45 a session and they are faith based, fully accredited medical professionals. Adding counseling to your medication may really help. And I know it sounds cliche, but once the meds start getting you back on the right track, try to excercise. It really helps with mood, energy level, and an overall feeeling of well being.

I just wanted to say keep up the positive thoughts and hard work you have been putting into yourself, and getting yourself better for you and your family. They need you, and you are important. Dont ever forget that.

Maybe you could look in a church newsletter or the newspaper? I'm not really sure. Maybe just google "support groups" and then type in your city and state and see what pops up.

Good Luck!

Don't have any advice or suggestions...just wanted to send you a ((hug)).
Glad you are taking care of yourself. It will get better. I will be praying for you.