Secretary,
I am going back to my doctor to once again seek medication for depression and management of ADD. I'm considering Cymbalta. In the past, I have used various anti depressants - some good experiences, some bad. In almost every case, after 6 months or so, the effectiveness of the meds seems to dwindle. My options have been to combat the depression with exercise, vitamin B complex, etc.
I have been through some very rough times over the past two years and I've tried to weather the storms over the past 5 months without meds. However, lately the depression has come back with a vengeance. I was on Lexapro and it worked great for a while and then the effectiveness fell off. I'll be asking about cymbalta now because it is indicated to assist with ADD symptoms.
One issue that plagues these types of forums is the presence of people who simply take meds and hope for the "magic pill" effect. In my experience, the treatment of depression is best handled by adherance to a decent diet, avoidance of caffiene, exercise and if there is a need, psychotherapy. That said, I've not been able to practice what I preach lately due to the depression.
I'll post back if Cymbalta is the med prescribed. There is no question that meds can be helpful, but if meds are the only method tried, the evidence points to eventual failure. FYI, there are many warnings re: suicide and anti depressants posted. I suggest caution in any matters re: suicidal thoughts. However, when you actually read the posts of people who are speaking of suicide, you may find that they are in serious need of counseling. Unfortunatly, some "family docotrs" hand out anti-depressant meds and don't suggest that patients address their physical, spiritual and mental needs (i.e. therapy). In my experience, people who look to the "pill only" approach are the ones at the greatest danger of experiening the levels of depression that can lead to thoughts and actions related to suicide.
My profile? I am a recovering alcoholic with long term sobriety (however, I am still very involved with AA and giving back to that community). I also have a family history of moderate depression. I have to attack depression on a number of fronts to keep on an even keel. Like many people with depression, I have times when I do well and other times I get complacent. There lies the danger. If I don't seek to achieve a healthy balance as I battle depression, the risk of alcoholism relapse comes up, depression increases and in a short amount of time, I start to experience the troubles from depression that affect me and those closest to me. My work suffers, my ability to care for myself falters and depression gets a stronghold. As is common with many depressed people, I am often the last to realize how far down the scale I have gone and then I've got to work really hard to "crawl out of the hole" again.
When I apply and can stick with taking medication, eating right, exercising, practice of AA's 12 steps and working toward balance, my life is really good. I wish you the best and I'll let you know how things go.