Changing the way I feel
Question
I feel down and really depressed all the time. I've been taking Seroxat for the past year but it's not making much of a difference. Although my home life is great and I have a wonderful partner I always seem to be moaning about something. I feel hurt all the time but I just can't feel any real emotion. I feel like I'm dying and I don't know why.
My doctor has said I've got some sort of generalised anxiety disorder but this doesn't mean much to me. I just want to know why I can't feel happy and cheerful instead of down and snappy all the time.
Answer
Depression and anxiety can be very debilitating and isolating but please be reassured that you are not alone.
You say your doctor (GP) has diagnosed generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). This can be extremely overwhelming and affects people in a variety of ways. It is also common for GAD to be accompanied by depression. You haven't said if you've talked to your GP about your feelings of depression. If it keeps on reoccurring you might want to consider getting a professional diagnosis.
Antidepressants, like Seroxat are commonly used to treat cases of GAD, although you suggest these are not helping your condition as you still feel down and snappy. As with any medication, Seroxat has some side effects and can take up to six weeks before they have a significant, positive impact. But as you've been on it for a year, you might want to consider discussing alternatives with your GP.
There are many types of antidepressants and some work better for certain people than others. In addition, combining medical with talking treatments like cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) can prove to be a more successful way of exploring underlying issues. Talking treatments can help people identify and resolve the possible causes of their anxiety. Your GP should be able to refer you on to an appropriate counselling service or, if you'd like to seek this form of support independently you can contact the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
If you feel uncomfortable discussing any of this with your doctor, there are many organisations and support groups that can also help you through this difficult time. The National Phobics Society (NPS) offers a lot of information on GAD and how to begin tackling it, and No More Panic also provides information, support and advice that might be useful to you. You can also call First Steps helpline on 0845 120 2916; they offer counselling and can provide information about local support groups. If you'd like to talk to someone about depression you can find advice and support through Depression Alliance, you can also use their site to access a national network of self help groups and a penfriend scheme.
Opening up to family and friends about your feelings can help too. It's understandable that some people keep things from those they are close to for fear of upsetting them, but once people know the situation they are able to offer help and support. If this seems too hard right now and you'd prefer to talk to someone you don't know you can call SANELINE on 0845 767 8000. They can offer you confidential, emotional support and information and give you the time and space to talk about how you are feeling, without judging you or telling you what to do.
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Question answered by SANE
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