Posted by JohnL on May 17, 2000, at 4:38:51
In reply to I'm going off the drugs......yikes!, posted by Gail on May 16, 2000, at 16:32:27
> My doctor and I have agreed to phase off of the Celexa (20mg). I'm dropping to 10mg for 1 week then taking 10mg every other day for another week then off. I'm very nervous but not to the point of anxiety. I do know that if I stubble back into the black hole that Psycho friends will help pick me back up. I of course will still be lurking daily like I have for the last 1 1/2 years. I've posted but have learned so much about myself from reading the posts. This has been very theraputic for me. I really appreciate all the help and hope you'll be there for the next phase of my return to mental health.
>
> GailI'm cheering you on and wishing you well Gail. But please, will you promise to be prompt at returning to treatment if the beast returns? I do not view depression as a discomfort, an unfortunate condition, or anything like that. I instead view it as a medical emergency. It is way too destructive to every aspect of a person's life. And it is a major cause of death. I applaud you, with fingers crossed. I am truly hoping you will be fine and the beast will be gone forever. That would be cool! But please do not hesitate or show any reluctance at all to return to treatment at the first sign of trouble. Hopefully all will go well.
Some statistics to ponder: After one major depressive episode, your odds of it happening again in the future are 50/50. After two episodes, your odds are 90% it will happen again. Three or more episodes...time to find a lifelong prophylactic medication that keeps you well with a side effect profile you can live with. I would be very happy to see you fall into the desirable half of the 50/50 ratio. Since your doctor has approved the move, go for it! We never know till we try.
JohnL
poster:JohnL
thread:33659
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000517/msgs/33745.html