My therapist is always telling me to take antidepressants but I am not convinced.

Mental health
1

I am an anxious person and have eventually some OCD . I am scared of some things like the plane, closed spaces, ..anxious about going to the hairdresser..etc..feel sometimes a loser..will not explain my private life. But I read a lot about antidepressants and this freaks me. I will have another problem if I start taking them. She did not try to convince me to do sports or to change my lifestyle. I don't know anymore what to decide. I am afraid of the side effects, to get stuck with the medicine all my life and of the withdrawel effects. Please can someone advise me. Thanks

2

I also feel sick when I think about it. Sometimes I feel I don't know if I should trust her.

3

Hi Lola your therapist must see a reason why you may benefit from antidepressant treatment.Maybe your mood is low and you may get more out of therapy if you we're feeling a bit less anxious.Usually antidepressant treatment and therapy go hand in hand so l wouldn't start to mistrust your therapist.At the end of the day it is your choice.l wouldn't believe all the horror stories you read about antidepressants and by no means will you be on them for the rest of your life.Some people get a lot of relief from antidepressants.

4

Thank you Marleen for your reply..actually I'm scared that I will be having suicidal thoughts or have symptoms that I never had before, or maybe panic attacks..Apart from the headaches etc..I feel normal now..I don't want to be not normal. It may seem strange to some people.

5

Hey Lola I've suffered anxiety for years. Haven't been on a plane for 16 years. Dont like being out of my "comfort zone". Sometimes medication can help. It did with me but it's not a miracle cure. The first week taking them i was like a zombie but gradually started to feel better. They help with the physical symptoms but therapy is needed to help with the emotional side of things. Don't give up on ur therapist. As Marleen has said both can work well together

6

I am sorry you are suffering. I too have anxiety over going to the hairdresser now. It is something about being stuck in the chair. I think it is so strange. I would consider my therapist's suggestion about medication. You wouldn't think twice about taking medication for diabetes or high blood pressure, would you? There is a stigma with depression and anxiety. I hope you feel better soon. Take care.

7

A therapist should do no such thing, to take anti depressants or not is entirely a personal preference. They can suggest them as an option but should never push. If they do, make a complaint and find a better therapist

8

Since being diagnosed with anxiety i have tried several anti deps but cannot tolerate them.  Dr gave me diazepam to take small dose.  I still cant do normal things like get to hairdresser, dentist  and even coffee shop to meet a friend.  All i feel is fear.  I was fine before this started.  Have tried cbt but basically just said push yourself. I just cant.  Have you any hints about how to do normal things like haircut?