Posted by uncouth on November 12, 2009, at 20:27:30
Genetics, years of mental abuse, bipolar disorder, smoking, and psychotropic medication I believe has seriously messed up my reward system, and this is a main cause of my depression and why I can't seem to get better or make changes in my life.
What would one look for if they wanted to "normalize" their reward system. I have enormous trouble getting work done, going after long term rewards, being optimsitic about outcomes, saying "no" to immediate fake-rewards like smoking, internet use, and food.
I'm guessing this is dopamine related, and i know it's genetic as I see it in my father as well. I am already on bupropion -- a high dose -- 600mg, which has helped the depression somewhat (turned offf thoughts of suicide) but hasn't given me the kick in the pants I would have liked.
What else is there?
Is this actually a treatable condition separate from depression as I am assuming?
Stimulants? I tried those...seemed to just make me even more overfocused on immediate rewards (like internet use for example).I'm struggling with my aimless, goal-less behaviors....
Help.
Thanks
Uncouth
poster:uncouth
thread:925544
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20091107/msgs/925544.html