Zoloft Forum

Zoloft Forum Posts

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How do I ask to switch to Zoloft? Some users on another forum are suggesting not continuing Lexapro, and I have to agree with them, because Lexapro even @ 20mg isn't completely helping my anxiety. I still get breakthrough symptoms. What I'd like to do is switch back to Zoloft @ 100mg. However, Zoloft does increase my irritability and agitation. Zoloft did help my anxiety without getting breakthrough anxiety. What should I do? How do I tell the doctor I'd like to get off of Lexapro and back on Zoloft? I think I know what one of my responses will be: One activating med to another. I'm willing to take that chance since Zoloft helps my anxiety better.

screwyahhoo replied: ""Can i switch back to Zoloft?""

Lexi replied: "Talk to your doctor about it. How long have you been on the Lexapro? Your doctor may try to increase the dosage or say to wait a little longer, but if you feel like the Zoloft was working the best for you, then you need to let him know. Any good doctor will take into consideration what you are saying and how you feel. If he doesn't, you may have to find a doctor that will...."

Kim replied: "There are other anxiety meds that may not cause you the side effects zoloft does, such as abilify ot concerta. Talk to your doctor, he/she should be able to talk with about the side effects of several meds. Daytrana even has a patch."

Nicole H replied: "ask your dr can switch zoloft What is the most important information I should know about sertraline? Do not take sertraline together with pimozide (Orap), or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate). You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before you can take sertraline. After you stop taking sertraline, you must wait at least 14 days before you start taking an MAOI. You may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Sertraline is FDA-approved for children with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is not approved for treating depression in children. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment. Related Articles Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - Treatment Overview Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for PMS and PMDD More medications Articles Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. SSRI antidepressants may cause serious or life-threatening lung problems in newborn babies whose mothers take the medication during pregnancy. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking sertraline, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. What is sertraline? Sertraline is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Sertraline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Sertraline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sertraline? Do not use sertraline if you are using pimozide (Orap), or an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), or selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam). Serious and sometimes fatal reactions can occur when these medicines are taken with sertraline. You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAO inhibitor before you can take sertraline. After you stop taking sertraline, you must wait at least 14 days before you start taking an MAOI. Before taking sertraline, tell your doctor if you have: liver or kidney disease; seizures or epilepsy; bipolar disorder (manic depression); or a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts. If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use sertraline, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests. You may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Tell your doctor if you have worsening symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment. FDA pregnancy category C. SSRI antidepressants may cause serious or life-threatening lung problems in newborn babies whose mothers take the medication during pregnancy. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking sertraline, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. It is not known whether sertraline passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give sertraline to anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor. Sertraline is FDA-approved for children with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is not approved for treating depression in children. How should I take sertraline? Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from the medication. Take each tablet with water. Sertraline may be taken with or without food. Try to take the medicine at the same time each day. Follow the directions on your pre ion label. The oral liquid form of this medicine must be diluted before you take it. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with medicine dropper provided, not with a regular table spoon. Mix the dose with 4 ounces (one-half cup) of water, ginger ale, lemon/lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice. Do not use any other liquids to dilute the medicine. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. It may take 4 weeks or longer before you start feeling better. Do not stop using sertraline without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly. Store sertraline at room temperature away from moisture and heat. What happens if I miss a dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have taken too much of this medication. Symptoms of a sertraline overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, agitation, tremor, confusion, seizures, and coma. What should I avoid while taking sertraline? Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of sertraline. Do not take the liquid form of sertraline if you are taking disulfiram (Antabuse). Liquid sertraline may contain alcohol and you could have a severe reaction to the disulfiram. Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, other medication for depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by sertraline. Sertraline can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. What are the possible side effects of sertraline? Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: seizure (convulsions); tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching; problems with balance or coordination; or agitation, confusion, sweating, fast heartbeat. Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as: drowsiness, dizziness, weakness; nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight; or decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. What other drugs will affect sertraline? Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine for pain, arthritis, fever, or swelling. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), diclofenac (Voltaren), indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), and others. Taking any of these drugs with sertraline may cause you to bruise or bleed easily. Before taking sertraline, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following medicines: tramadol (Ultram, Ultram ER, Ultracet); digitoxin (Crystodigin); phenytoin (Dilantin), valproate (Depacon, Depakene); lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith); a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin); any other antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), or paroxetine (Paxil); almotriptan (Axert), frovatriptan (Frova), sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), or zolmitriptan (Zomig); or heart rhythm medication such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), and others. If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use sertraline, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment. There may be other drugs not listed that can affect sertraline. Tell your doctor about all the pre ion and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your do"

draggy43 replied: "Just TELL your doc you want to switch. But a warning...Zoloft causes "peridomal" symptoms such as uncontrollable twitching, movements of the mouth, tongue and fingers. Much like Thorazine did years ago."

stevienicksfan replied: "Be right up front about it and remember, you have rights as the patient. I was on celexa for panic attacks then switched to zoloft. (I can't remember why.) The zoloft made me light-headed and inattentive. I told my doctor that I wanted to go back to the celexa. He pushed a bit for me to stay on zoloft but I knew that I didn't like it and he wrote me a new pre ion for the meds I wanted."

jd replied: "I started with zoloft and switched to lexapro due to sexual side effects. lexapro made me more anxious so I told my doctor I liked zoloft better due to less anxiety, and she prescribed it again. It really isn't a big deal. Whatever works best for you, is what is most important. The zoloft can make you tired for a few months, so perhaps the irritability will be short lived. Paxil is another drug out there that is pretty successful in treating anxiety. Your doctor should be more than willing to offer suggestions and make changes that are necessary. If not, find another one. People who have not suffered with anxiety often don't realise how debilitating it can be. Best of luck."

What are the pre ion drug forums that people tell their exeriences on? for things like zoloft, cymbalta, I remember reading a huge list of people's opinions before, but can't find it now. Thanks!

Mr.Bleu replied: "customer service"

First time on Zoloft...kind of scared to take it...? Can it make you crazy or possibly kill you... I went to a forum and people were reporting some strange things... Will it help more than hurt? I am going to take 50g or maybe mg lol not sure what the measurement is? For my anxiety and negativity.

Trainwreck420 replied: "I took that in the 5th Grade and honestly i regret it, it seemed to make things worse, try xanex"

Heather replied: "I took zoloft for years. The only bad side effect for me was making me pretty tired...so I took it before bed. It helped a lot. Paxil made me extremely crazy"

versantly replied: "then don't take it!! it's really that easy. inform your doctor & continue behavior modification & counseling."

Janjuc replied: "Hi, have you been down the counselling path? Zoloft is primarily an antidepressant, and can have some crappy side effects when you take it, can make your anxiety worse initially, also gastrointestinal upsets, headaches etc. Xanax is Ok, but for short term usage, as it is a benzodiazapine, similar to Valium, and as such can cause dependence (requiring higher dosage over time to achieve the same effect, and is a difficult drug to cease, requiring in some cases of longer term use going into detox to help cease it) if used for more than a few weeks. Speak to the person prescribing the Zoloft and discuss ALL of the available options...."

Samuel P replied: "Suicidal thoughts are supposed to be a side effect. Don't take any drugs to make yourself think better. You can think on your own, just have the balls to do it. You're not special and you don't have special problems. -- The Secret Doctor Team."

My hair started falling out when I began taking Zoloft. If I discontinue taking it will my hair grow back? I only took it for 4 months. The speedy hair loss started a few weeks after starting the pre ion. Im 20 and there is no history of early baldness in my family. Also I do not have a thyroid problem. Ive googleed this quite a bit and never got much of an answer at all. Many people have had issues with this but none of the forums have been answered. If you dont have the answer maybe you know of some sort of "ask a dermatologist" website. Thanks for the help.

LadyLynn replied: "I would say to call any pharmacist. They are so smart and helpful, and they usually know more about medications than many doctors! A good website is Good luck to you! :)"

Gina replied: "anyway as you know - hair loss can be caused by many different reasons! Find out the actual cause of hair loss! There are many causes of loss of hair such as stress, poor nutrition ,medications, thyroid dysfunctions, illness, fungal infections ,hormonal problems, to mention a few. but anyway you can always try and get real results. year ago my husband suffered from hair loss too and he started trying everything you can imagine to stop his hair loss. the things that really worked for him was: 1) Vitamin A - an anti-oxidant which promotes healthy production of sebum in the scalp; 2) Vitamin E stimulates circulation. Good blood circulation in the scalp is important in keeping hair follicles productive. The 'B' vitamins contribute to melanin, which gives hair its healthy color and also stimulates blood circulation; 3) massage is also beneficial. Massage stimulates circulation. As already noted, good circulation in the scalp keeps hair follicles active. Experts suggest a few minutes of daily head massage by hand. Circulation through massage may be improved by using a few drops of lavender or bay essential oil in an almond or sesame oil base with massage; 4) Try rubbing your scalp with garlic juice, Onion Juice or Ginger Juice(you can either of one out of three, Do not mix any of two or three); 5) also used herbal treatment.in that case Provillus is a good product that helps prevent hair loss and it is an FDA approved product. I think it is very important! It worked and still works for him! I do not know if any pharmacies carry Provillus but I do know that you should purchase it directly from the manufacturer and read more about the product here good luck! not only my and my husband`s own personal experience"

What is the determining factor in having children when OCD &Panic Disorder are present- Mom's please help! I wrote this in another forum and one person suggested I ask here also. I am 33, married for 10 years- very happily. Both of us have good jobs. I asked what is the determining factor in deciding to have a baby. I have OCD and Panic Disorder. I am currently on 150 zoloft and 20mg valium. I'm wondering if anyone has had these disorders and had children. If yes, did you have to stop the medication while pregnant? What effects did you have while pregnant? Did you breast feed? Could you take meds while breast feeding? Can/could you handle the stress of a newborn or was it overwhelming? Any info would be soooo helpful. Please...

Angela M replied: "I have Bipolar Disorder. I was on 100 mgs of Seroquel (an antipsychotic) and 20 mgs of Lexapro during my entire pregnancy with my son, with no negative effects or worsening of symptoms. I actually felt better during my pregnancy! Pregnancy hormones tend to make things either better (about 70%) or worse, and it all depends on how you react as an individual. I had gotten off lithium prior to conception, and went back on the week I gave birth. Your dr may suggest dropping the dosage of the Valium or stopping it alltogether, at least for your first trimester, if not prior to conception, but the Zoloft I don't think should be an issue. The biggest concern will be the possibility of post-partum depression and psychosis, but if your p-doc pretreats you for the condition, it won't be as severe, maybe even non existent. I had no post-partum symptoms, and that was the #1 biggest worry. If you are taking any psychoactive medications you cannot breastfeed. My take on the mental illness inheritability, from a perinatologist (who gave us genetic counseling) was that it's about a 1 in 4 chance that your kid will develop SOME sort of mental illness if both you and your partner have a mental illness (even a propensity toward depression included). It's much less (1 in 16) if only you have a mental illness and your partner does not, but has a family history, very unlikely if only you have a mental illness. But the specific type is up for grabs. If you child does have some problem, it could be just mild bouts of depression, or mild ADD-- both of which are readily treatable. The upside to all this is that, if your child does develop some sort of mental health problem, you'll already be looking for it and will have help on the ready. My son is now 2 1/2 and shows no "oddities"-- save a bit of a preoccupation with personal hygeine, but my dr says that that's normal for his age."

spun_down replied: "regarding using medication during pregnancy I would positively check with your doctors first. regarding why people have kids, a deciding factor is if something is missing in your life that nothing else can fulfill except for an offspring to love, then that's pretty much life. as long as you believe you can handle it, have the nurturing environment, and unconditional love for another"

arent you mad about this?!? ok i have been off of zoloft for about a week now, (getting a refill tomrow) and my symptons are horrible! there is no info at all about the side effects of coming off of zoloft, but i went to this forum and i am OUTRAGED that pfizer doesnt put this info out there! like, i thought i had a brain tumor cuz i'm so dizzy all day and no energy either, what can we do about this?>

starcarlton replied: "take a nap. then get up and do some shots of Jack Daniels - and watch the squirells outside - you will feel alot better"

themeindzeye replied: "The companies assume that you are talking to your doctor and taking your meds as prescribed. The side-effects information is available around and about, and your doctor always tells you that there could be serious withdrawal symptoms from coming off of things like that. Also, I make it a practice to research every single thing my doctor prescribes. I want to know what's being put into my body and what it's doing while its there. I recommend you begin the same. It is never prudent to take a medication without being aware of the physical implications. Contact Pfizer's customer service department with your concerns. You will be more likely to get a response if you are polite about it."

nanny replied: "You should be under a doctor's supervision - and not have left your pre ion lapse. You need to be in charge of getting your own health information, such as side effects, and withdrawal symptoms. If you can't get to your doctor in time, pharmacists are really helpful."

singlemommy770 replied: "your doctor should have told you that you are to ween your self off almost all anti-depressants."

Steve H replied: "All antidepressants come with strict instructions to NOT abruptly stop taking them. Bad side effects can ensue - as you're finding out. Chill out - you won't be so crazy and furious about this after you get your refill and it kicks in. Consider this a really good lesson in paying attention to your pre ion refills, and not letting them run out before you order more."

Van_Wilder replied: "Its like you've never done drugs before. Every drug has that coming down feeling associated to it. I'm guessing your just not used to it. That coming down feeling is why people get addicted to drugs. They don't like coming down."

btdt65 replied: "Your Dr. should have told you that Zoloft is not the kind of medication you can go off of cold turkey. It takes time to build in the system and the same when deciding to stop. Whatever caused the week break in refilling, I would not let that happen again, and the Dr. should have informed you not to do that. I think it is the Dr's responsibility to tell you the side effects of going off of a med, and the drug company to tell you the side effects of being ON the medication. Try and educate yourself better on each and every med you put into your body, bottom line, it's your body."

surfer grl replied: "Actually, I am amazed about the outcome of it. I read alot of people's reactions to this. The only thing I can suggest is that if you do decide to go off of your medication, I would talk to my doctor first and find out the reprecussions of going off."

miss_nursie_nurse replied: "Maybe if you would stop doing other drugs you wouldn't need antidepressants"

phalsephasod replied: "doctors give you these crazy drugs, you get hooked, gotta keep giving them money otherwise the withdrawals are alot worse than the original problem. I don't touch synthetics, mother earth will give me whatever I need."

SCARED! I need help :/? As some of you may know, I have had a severe fear of schizophrenia for about three months. After I had an initial panic attack, I told myself that the panic attack symptoms were schizophrenia, due to my naivety. So I started to research and I finally was able to say it was just anxiety. But, then I read somewhere that the beginning signs of schizophrenia could be anxiety, so I had another slew of panic attacks. Now it is just high anxiety and worries with the occasional anxiety attack. But, idk if it is just my ocd, my anxiety or if I am actually developing schizophrenia but I have become very, very withdrawn. I no longer workout, (used to 5x/week). I have had weird philosophical thoughts in which are hard to hold back. For instance, I had a thought the other day that I am still not able to let go of and I am pondering about endlessly, and that is, what if what we see, isn't what we see, and our brain is just playing a movie so-to-speak? I know this is irrational as hell but I can't drop it and it makes me wonder. I also keep wondering how we see, how our brain handles all of the stimuli. Also, I haven't been working out as I mentioned before and I am due to start college football in 3 WEEKS! I am so scared for college, petrified. How am I going to make it on my own with this anxiety/fear/possible schizophrenia? What if I have a psychotic break while at college? I am so scared. Also, my dad is dying back at home and my mom is a struggling alcoholic, neither in good health obviously. I am so scared to be on my own with all of this going on, I AM ABSOLUTELY PETRIFIED. I think my ocd might be making me convinced I have schizophrenia and making me resemble the negative symptoms. I am not depressed, but I am nowhere near happy, I never smile or have a genuinely happy moment. I never shave anymore. I hate mirrors for some reason. I get mild depresonalization and derealization I get pretty bad sometimes. I am also on 25 mg zoloft. Also, I am at my grandparents and I fear going back home bc that is where I had about 50 anxiety/panic attacks in the last 3 months. I AM A BASKET CASE! Also, I have a compulsion to post something like this on a forum somewhere almost daily, if I don't I feel so anxious and fear a psychotic break even more. Can anyone provide any advice? I know some are sick of me, but I have a dif. concern everyday. I am just 18 and I am under the impression that my life is over, I'm done. No family, no kids, no degree, no successful career, I am done (in my mind). Well, Hailey, I have seen a psychologist that was useless, but I have a second appointment with a psychiatrist tomorrow. I saw her two weeks ago and she diagnosed me with OCD, panic disorder and a little depression. I just wish I could be how I used to be, this is so frustrating. I had all A's my senior year, football captain, class clown, most likely to be famous superlative, best writer in my class and now I feel like dirt.

smallfish1603 replied: "Please seek professional help soon. You cannot get this on Answers. In the meantime stay calm and engage in some sport or hobby."

Hailey replied: "you need to go the ER today!! they will help you immediately, give you meds to relax you and set you up with a psychologist. please... you need to go. my boyfriend has been thru a milder case and the going to the ER was the best choice we made. you can get this under control and enjoy college. i believe your psychological status has a lot do w/ your parents back home. it is not your fault... but you owe it to yourself.. go to the ER. you are 18... they will take you in even if you go alone."

depression chat room?? Is there any depression chat rooms out there? i dont really want a forum..i want to beable to chat.. I went to one but there is a red x on the chat box and can't even get in...I am suffering from depression and currently taking Citalopram(celexa) since Friday(11/06/07). I've been through so many jobs within a 6mth period, I can't seem to remember things or focus nor concentrate. I have mood swings sometimes Im doing fine then the next minute im moody and just emotional. I cry alot and feel worthless at times. Ive been depressed since 16yrs old approx. I dropped out of HS cause i was depressed and was on zoloft for a couple of mths...was on lexapro last yr for a mth...I feel I cant do anything and my emotions take over..i take everything serious and cant seem to just feel free and let go and not let things bother me...but its hard..ive talked to therapist before. i dont really like that tho...its very expensive..

rhcpizno1 replied: "It's probably not good to talk to other depressed people..."

vhesponage replied: "Look into county-based therapy. They base it off of your income or lack there of. That is how I got through my problems. Don't give up. This is not permanent and can be fixed. I promise."

Chad K replied: "Do you hav eany left over pills for me??"

t_bh111 replied: "ADD ME ON msn , i'll shower u with fun and love"

John the smart guy replied: "talk to me if u have email me if u wanna talk on AIM!"

Lamecore replied: "they have a chat room on i think."

princess1226 replied: "there are plenty of chat rooms for this, and you can talk to people on here. you can talk to me on my space I've been very depressed and suffer from anxiety. its good to have friends to help you through the hard times"

zing m replied: "The other guy's right, it's probably not great to talk to other depressed people. Just stay on yahoo answers, because it's a very supportive community here, but not quite the same as a chat room."

All Knowing replied: "If you can not afford a therapist then just read as many self help books as you can, get them from the library if you have to, it may sound crazy, but sometimes the books are better then most therapist."

straighta111 replied: "Life is about. feeling free and doing what ever you want as long as you don't break the law. if you live in a "box" your whole life what's the point of living if you can't enjoy life? Not that i'm saying kill yourself. i'm just saying think your life over. what do you want to do? and do it no matter what anyone else thinks. IT's YOUR LIFE."

Nicholas replied: "EFNet #depression or Undernet #depression"

pinkstealth replied: "Could you PLEASE email ME PLEASE... let's talk...... pinkstealth @yahoo.com"

"The Answerer" replied: "http://www.depressionforums.org/ Sounds like you have a chemical imbalance. Talking to a psychologist won't help. Go see a doctor and get on an SSRI. I tried the psychologist route and it only made things worse. Once I was prescribed Celexa, I found happiness again."

tomcruise234234 replied: "I've been depressed for about 1 year. It's bad..but remember no matter how dark it is there IS light at the end of the tunnel. Try this..think of somebody else's plight, about their depression..and try to alleviate that.Then don't sit and think about what you'll get in return..go on to the next needy person. It'll be better much better than sitting around all day..incase you want to im me it's "tomcruise234234@yahoo.com" Be Happy !"

jordykaye replied: "i dont think its good to talk to other depressed ppl, they'll just tell you about their problems and most likely it will make you even more depressed. try going to a chat room filled with happy ppl or something, they'll probly make you feel better. some advice about you problems, you shouldnt have dropped out of high school, now your not going to be able to get a good job. i would suggest going back, finding a girlfriend maybe, and getting involved in school activities, find a group of friends that will make you feel better, enjoy life. you might not be depressed anymore if you do these things. just a suggestion."

Al Lynn replied: "You need a professional ,not a therapist,but a psychiatrist.Someone that can get you on the right medicine and the help you need."

Hot legs replied: "I would also be interested in a chat room so hope someone else comes up with one. I am sorry you feel so bad. I take Welbutrin for depression and Trileptal for mania. Give the Celexa a little time to work...how long did your Dr. say it would take? Do you get SSI? If so, don't worry about working right now just concentrate on doing things that make you feel better."

LD replied: "Try some things you've NEVER done before. Maybe you've tried these but if not, off the wall things like: - Dance class - Volunteer at a hospital - Go to a church / synagogue / Hindu temple, etc. ALL of them - Buy a cheap guitar (used?) and a book, just TRY it, you don't have to be "good" - Start jogging 1 mile per day Don't expect anything to come of it, don't "look" for something, just do it, don't ask, just try it. Try them all, make your own lists, think about other people you know that seem happy and do what they do."

Wild Thing replied: "Sorry you are so depressed. Maybe you should talk to your Doctor for another pre ion. Well, I am a believer, that depression needs to be treated by its roots. Once you know, what is bothering you so much, maybe you can work on it or if you can't change things you have to let them go. Maybe you are to harsh on yourself. Don't look back and let things go. Don't sweat the small stuff, be happy and have some fun. Life is suppose to be good, if you let yourself experience it. All those medications might screw you up in the long run. Doctor don't treat the root of the problem, they just treat the symptoms. Go to a Psychologist and he/she might be able to find the problem of your depression. That's what they are here for. Good luck!"

Susan replied: "Meds are tricky and it can take some time to see what works for you. Also counselor styles are different and some may not work for you as well as others I would not give up trying that though, there are places that work on a sliding scale fee. I'm glad you are still making efforts, to feel like you do probably has deep roots to it. good luck"

agieagieagie22 replied: "Don't you know that there is one on Yahoo Messenger?? Check it out. And there is nothing at all wrong with being a serious person. I'm serious but know how to enjoy myself too."

[ThiNkiN Of yOOh] replied: "im so srry about ur depression...i was so touched when i read ur story..i wish i could help you out..well if you wanna talk just im me or email me at (hoped i helped alittle)"

Chivolita replied: "I'm not a therapist, but advise is to focus in what's good out there and you are not even notice the good things around you I know is hard but depression doesn't let you see things in a positive way but you have to focus a lot and try to smile, and enjoy live. I know is hard to be in your situation but I think that you have control over the problem but you havent notice it. The way you describe your self and your symtoms seems like you really want to fix it and for depression the only one that can help you is you. Like I said before try to focus in the good thigs, think positive and positive things will happend to you. Another advice dont watch the news, dont focus in other peoples problems, dont listen to negative coments just focus in the good things there are so many goos things in life just enjoy the good moments. Take care and be happy!"

dieseldadd replied: "As a mental health professional with 20+ years experience, now retired, I can tell you that talking with other depressed people is as successful for you as talking with any other person. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. I will say, however, that "agieagieagie22" 's answer is NOT a necessarily a good one. A while back I went to the depression chat line here on Yahoo, and I was flabbergasted at the harsh criticism I saw going from one person to another and the blatant, vulgar, sexual focus of the room. That is NOT what is needed, and I could not believe what I was reading. I will say also that I'm not a pill promoter, meaning that depression is something that can be worked through without medication, and to say it is a "chemical imbalance", as was said above, is such a trite and naive approach to the solution. Any and all emotions or moods are "chemical imbalances" when measured against the chemical "balances" previously measured. As thoughts, emotions and behaviors change, so does the chemical "balance" or array of your body, so, to use that excuse as a reason to go get pills misses the mark ENTIRELY. An older psychiatrist I worked with beginning in 1979 and on through 1980-something always gave his patients a very simple behavior to follow, and I thought "how quaint and 'cute' " it was, until I saw the results. He would tell his patients to go for a walk 4 or 5 times a week, beginning slowly until your body "loosened up" and then pick up the pace a bit so you can feel your heart and lungs picking up the pressure a bit. Then, after a moderate time, each time according to the patient's health and desire, begin slowing down as you approached home or your starting point so that your muscles wouldn't have a tendency to cramp. He always said to never attach a chore to this walk, such as walking your dog or going to the store for something small, or walking with someone else who wanted to go with you. Just get out and walk 4 or 5 times a week according to your body's capabilities and pleasure. He said if our patients did that, we'd be out of business, but he knew that the majority wouldn't do something so simple because they wanted a fancy diagnosis and an expensive pre ion, regardless of how much that went against common sense. He was right, 99.9% of the time. We actually had a very small number of patients who followed his, and later my, advice, and were cured without medication. I would invite you to join those .1% of patients who were smart enough to do as he recommended. If you want out of depression, there it is. If you want a fancy diagnosis and expensive pre ion(s) you can complain about, well, you know how to get that too. God Bless you."

Hi, I need depression help? Hi, I'm 14 years old and I have an eating disorder and depression or some mix of it I'm not sure cause I'm not a doctor but my dad is..and he gives me zoloft which I'm not taking on purpose because it makes me feel numb or maybe that's just psychological..but now this eating disorder is taking over me I'm so depressed and lonely no one is home because I refused to go to(6 hour drive) arrarat cause I binged the other night (but I said i had homework that needed the internet) and I felt really sick and then today I wasn't going to eat...but then I ate and I'm so depressed and alone.... I really need to talk to someone but I my mum keeps saying I should go to this centre for eating disorders but they are just going to make me eat and be fat and "happy" and I really want to fit into my clothes i hate having tight clothes.. I really hate myself so much..I'm so spoilt and I just can't stand myself but i can't get over this stupid problem in my head I just can't.. the only reason I binged the other night was cause mum was just yelling at everything I said and I ate my feelings.. I really hate but I really love my mum too she seems to love me but she was so awful to me when I was younger I'm so confused and hurting inside I really need help... Does anyone know of a depression help forum or something where I can talk to other people about these things? I'm so depressed I keep crying all the time I really hate myself so much...I really need to talk to someone about this.. When I was younger I was also suicidal.

Aleeh S replied: "just remember that people care about you your mom and dad do and alwways try and do something thats the main thing do something aslong as its good do it."

AniBanniBoo replied: "um...you could talk to me. i'm good at talking to people and comforting them. and i actually am depressed as well and nobody can actually make you eat. you just have to want to be healthy. you should read Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson. I think it would help you a bit. And it's a good book as well, so that's a plus"

Lisey Cullen replied: "aw hun i feel so sorry for you! Im not sure where you live, but usually there are confidential phone counciling services that are free, for example in new zealand theres kidsline, which you ring up to talk to someone, and they dont even tell your parrents. hope life works out for you, and i was pretty messed up when i was 13/14. for most people its a stage, but help never hurts."

MeAgain replied: "From what you have said your Dad's a doctor and has given you medication that you have stopped taking, have you told him this? Have you even told him what it made you feel like? Your mum sounds very caring if she is talking to you about going to a centre for eating disorders. Being a spoilt child can be a heavy burden to carry. Talk to your Mum and Dad and be honest with them, it really is the only way that you are going to get better and have a content and fulfilling life. Look for a crisis line that you can call and talk to someone there, explain your situation and they might be able to give you the words you need to start a conversation with your parents."

Yo! I'm 20yo and im 5'7 230lbs I have a very serious question.? See i have lived with severe depression for about five years over a tramatic incident, Which has caused me to see countless physc people and one gave me some zoloft and told me it effected you over a period of weeks and i chose to take them all in one day not sure what that did.; but i am going insane though my real question is ..ive smoked pot everyday for the last three years litterally every day and i have developed among other things a severe case of male breast's and my question is what exercise can i do to reduce them...I have searched and read all over the internet and now im down to forums. So if you have read all this and have an answer it would be greatly appreciated..although i know there are smartasses out there

love.heidi replied: "Im pretty sure push-ups will help and just flexing the pectoral muscles often will too."

D.A.V. Driver replied: "The only thing is breast reduction surgery. Just like the surgery females have."

SheRa replied: "I know a few people with this and the only thing that seems to work is a big reduction in body fat. You need to lose a lot of weight (probably down to at least 185) and do a lot of cardio. That reduces allover body fat and will at least severly reduce the moobs. Did you have moobs before?"

jacky replied: "no exercises help u reduce anything. u might consider me a smart a's's , but u do exercises to gain smth somewhere. u want to reduce breasts - go to surgery"

dragonkisses replied: "U took a whole bottle of zoloft? Smoking pot is probably contributing to ur depression, and causing u to over eat. The over eating is what is causing ur breast problem. Cut down on the junk, get treated for ur depression, and exercise, and that should help."

Random Bloke replied: "S'true. Exercise helps with depression, though it sounds like yuo need medication as well. But these meds are not trivial, adn can really fuck you up if you abuse them. There are plenty of anti-depressants out there that will help you. As for the lard issue, ain't nothing going to fix that but diet and exercise. If you burn more than you eat, you'll lose weight - it's that simple. If you exercise, you increase the rate you burn energy, and you burn fat in preference to losing muscle tissue. I know it's old hat these days, but Atkins worked for me - I lost 40+ lbs in 5 months"

deltaqueen replied: "Hi there, I am not sure of how to solve your chest problem other than diet and exercise. But, I can tell you that I had a similar problem a few years ago.I kinda went off the deep end due to trauma, took my Zoloft, tried the doctors and turned to drugs(much stronger than pot). I really screwed up my life for awhile. One day I finally came to my senses, check into rehab, entered my self in grief and loss counseling and regained my grip. Alot of people didn't believe that I needed rehab, but I truly did and it saved my life, not so much from the drugs, but the forum taught me that I wasn't alone, people suffer from alot of different issues and the narcotics anonymous book alone taught me how to pick up the pieces and learn how to live again. I encourage you to find the help that you need and be diligent about what they show you. You can go to all of the counselors in the world, but until you are open minded and discover that they aren't gonna fix you, they are gonna teach you how to heal yourself you're not gonna get anywhere. Rebuilding self esteem is difficult at first but once you get over the first hurtle you'll be surprised how easy it really is."

gamerunner2001 replied: "I can't offer you a simple excercise that will target your problem area rather some suggestions to attack the bigger problem. First, it is very common to deal with our traumatic experience through self medication, did it for many years after returning from service in Vietnam 36 years ago. So, my suggestion is to put away the pot, find a group of other people who share your problems and attend some meetings. Start a fitness program, doesn't have to be a fancy club or trainer. Set some realistic goals with your fitness. Maybe you need to simply walk for 1 mile every day? Do a couple situps, couple pushups? Don't try to fix it all in a day.... Diet, that doesn't mean starving but taking a look at what your putting into your body, my guess is that with the pot use your eating a fair amount of crap? It's time to set up a plan, not an impossible plan but one that you can succeed at... Maybe this will lead to taking off a couple pounds a month, slow, weight loss is the key to long term weight loss. Increase your fitness program in a comfortable way so it becomes part of your life, not something to do for a couple months to lose some weight. This is a pretty big receipe for you to take in but the key is that these changes should become part of your life. You will never be able to change what happened in your trauma but you can change how you allow it to affect your life. You have to take charge, all be it in small bits and pieces. Wish you well....So, I didn't answer your question on how to solve that problem area but I think it will take care of itself when you begin to take care of yourself."

The Complete Idiot replied: "okay, this is copied and pasted from something i typed out before for depression. I think it applies equally well to weight loss, if you emphasize cardiovascular exercise and some strength/posture training 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. I won't go in to detail here about why. just do it, it's not that expensive. also, get lots of beneficial fatty acids - the omega 3-6-9 stuff. you could take flaxseed oil and fish oil pills or eat lots and lots of olive oil. do shots of it. mmmmm. 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 whole foods, not overcooked. eat green or colourful vegetables. eat tree nuts,eat fish, eat more fish, the more nutritious fruits (berries), herbs, and some WHOLE 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. watch the caffeine, especially late in the day. good luck. p.s. there are a slew of over-the-counter products that will help you, but as people differ, i can't guess which ones will be cost-effective and side-effect free. you might want to try some of these amino acids like A-AKG (arginine alpha-ketogluterate) or L-carnitine. Cinnamon pills or milk thistle might be worth the cost in terms of overall health."

9lives replied: "The best way to reduce weight is cardiovascular excericise. But to build chest muscles try benchpress, or incline. However, if you build muscle under fat you will increase the size of your breasts at first. So you must do 30 minutes of cardiovascular such as running, treadmill, bike, to get your heart pumping so you can burn off the weight. This will help you burn calories even at rest. When you excercise remember you must get that heart rate up, but be careful not to overdo it. Next, Get some dumbells. I used to do chest excerices to define my chest and arm muscles."

Sunflower replied: "first off im am sorry for your pain , depression can be tough esp. when you dont know how to make it better. second the pot is a good way of relaxing but maybe to much maybe slack down on it so you can get up and exercise some ... if you have directtv theres a show called total body sculpt with gihad on in the mornings around 10 or 10:30 thats a good work along show... well I hope all is well with you and i hope your depression subsides. need anyone to talk to about it look me up."

vanislandwitch replied: "Ok ok,from a chick that likes 'bigger guys' not muscle heads... I'll say why change at all ? Will tell ya right off,get off the Zoloft ! Girls don't "dig" dudes on anti depression meds. You smoke Pot thats good enough for depression, Ok OK lets get real,everybody needs LOVIN' even the fat people,so why don't you start looking for a bigger girl,I have some heavier girlfriends that love to smoke pot,eat munchies,go to work and enjoy their kids all the while lonely,they could use a good guy..you just need to clear your head space and re-adjust your thought pattern dude! So ya got man boobs who cares! so does my hubby! ha ha do I love him any less NOPE,he had them when we meet he's 5'9 250-265 lbs.I love to feel the wieght of him when we make love,I love every dang inch of him. You my friend need to be proud of who you are !"