Posted by teriwynn on January 9, 2003, at 8:54:30
In reply to Lexapro comments, posted by wally on January 9, 2003, at 2:22:56
Wally:
After 29 years on meds, I'm sure you know that symptoms are unique to individuals as are levels of sensitivity.
But I can tell you about my experiences if you'd like. I am a lot less depressed most of the time, but I do not feel 100% all the time. I do experience moments of "melancholy" -- but they are not frequent and they do pass IF I allow them to.
The insomnia -- yes -- I was having difficulty sleeping -- particularly falling asleep. In my case, my psychiatrist suggested moving my Depakote to the evening as it tends to make you tired. That helped, but I still take awhile to fall asleep. Once I fall asleep, I stay asleep however. Your doctor may prescribe something mild to help with this. I have taken drugs in the past to help with sleep. (There are even over-the-counter sleep aids.)
If I may be so bold, I'd suggest that the melancholy might best to dealt with via counseling rather than drugs. You have a mental illness -- NO drug is going to cure you. The drugs are to help you take the edge off, to help you be more rational, to help you face each day. They are not going to make your problems go away. What are you melancholy about? You need to deal with the problems. Any drug that totally masks the problem is not doing you any favors.
I do have moments like you describe. I am trying to rise above them. Lexapro keeps me from feeling like life is hopeless; it does not make me feel like life is perfect.
It may or may not be your drug. I don't know. The trick is to find one that works most of the time. Talk to your doctor and see if you need more time, a dosage change, a sleep aid, or more counseling. But remember, nothing will be perfect. We are never going to be perfect -- aim for near perfection one day at a time.
poster:teriwynn
thread:109458
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030106/msgs/135070.html