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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
[email protected]Shown: posts 3983 to 4007 of 8406. Go back in thread:
Posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 15:02:02
In reply to All of these Online Screening Tests, posted by lil' jimi on August 19, 2003, at 14:14:39
I'm glad we all seem intelligent and well-informed enough to understand this.
On a different thread, reading these posts makes me wonder why, besides the persuasive - verging on demonic - nature of pharmaceutical companies, we are prescribed one medication over another? I've looked around the other babble pages and there seem to be commonalities, but I am really wondering why I was put on Lex first. I'm sure doctors know about the options and have pressure from several drug companies. I also know that a lot of people are being told to switch from Celexa to Lexapro, but does anyone know what, specifically makes someone a candidate for Lexapro as opposed to another drug?
Thanks,
Lex
Posted by Esmarelda on August 19, 2003, at 15:16:42
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and...., posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 15:02:02
This is just my opinion - I first took an antidepressant in 1997 - Paxil. I only took it for about 3 or 4 months and was fine after that. I couldn't sleep on it, but it seemed to work fairly well. Then, in 1998, I had another occasion where they put me on Prozac and I took that for about 8 months. It worked way too well and I cared about nothing so I quit and was fine after that for a while. Then, in 2001 I had another situational occurence and they tried Effexor and another one or two drugs that did not work and made me feel like I had taken a bunch of hits of speed and then finally settled on Wellbutrin, which took the edge off, but I still had occasional depression. I quit the Wellbutrin after about 4 months. I started back on it in the Spring of 2002 and it did not work very well and they tried Remeron - well I got fat and was sleepy all the time so I just quit cold turkey and was okay until my Grandmother died a few months back. I started taking some left over Wellbutrin that really wasn't doing the trick and then went to a grief counselor -- she recommended Lexapro. Said it was new and seemed to really work for a lot of people. It is the best thing that I have ever been on. As I previously posted, it took a while to get here, but I am very happy with it. I think different meds just effect different chemistries differently. I also think it depends on the depth of the depression and the amount (if any anxiety) that is going along with the depression. I don't know JACK, but sometimes after you have been on something for a while, you just get numb to it and it doesn't work anymore.
Posted by Recumbent on August 19, 2003, at 15:54:00
In reply to re: Male Lex user - (2) weeks into » Recumbent, posted by lil' jimi on August 19, 2003, at 11:40:33
Thanks Jim! I appreciate your reply. Yes, the only problem I have is the anorgasmia - no decreased libido, no erectile dysfunction. If there was ongoing anorgasmia I don't believe the benefits would outweigh the costs. I'm on 10mg, and generally have a better sense of well being, though I can still be whipped up. I guess you could say that Lex takes the edge off.
> hi Recumbent,
>
> (and thanks to Esmeralda for prompting me to get you this reply here ... Thanks, Esmeralda!)
>
> Recumbent wrote us:
> Will this sexual problem go away with time on Lex?
>
> i'll bet you dollars to doughnuts it will!
> (dating myself by using an expression which depends on doughnuts being preceived as very cheap ... ... these days that's nearly even odds!)
>
> Anorgasmia: ... the inability to orgasm ... ... i hear you brother! ... been there ... No Fun!
> ... but you're not having decreased libido, right?
> ... and no erectile dysfunction, right?
> (a word of caution here :: Viagra can aggravate your suffering ... unless you need to treat ED, do not go there.)
>
> i went from normal sexual function to total anorgasmia within 2 days of starting lexapro ... Very Weird ... ... ... a week later i had fully recovered ...
>
> ... ... this is definitely an initial lex SE, which does eventually go away ... ... i'm betting it will for you too ...
>
> let us hear how you are doing ... ... hang in there!
>
> TAKE CARE !!
> ~ jim
Posted by lil' jimi on August 19, 2003, at 16:40:10
In reply to re: Male Lex user - (2) weeks into, posted by Recumbent on August 19, 2003, at 15:54:00
hi Recumbent,
> Thanks Jim! I appreciate your reply. Yes, the only problem I have is the anorgasmia - no decreased libido, no erectile dysfunction. If there was ongoing anorgasmia I don't believe the benefits would outweigh the costs. I'm on 10mg, and generally have a better sense of well being, though I can still be whipped up. I guess you could say that Lex takes the edge off.
>glad to have you post back ... thanks!
i agree, fulltime, permanent anorgasmia would not be acceptable ... ... at All!hang in there ... ... i just Know you will recover, man!
TAKE CARE !!!
~ jimp.s. the girls can get this anorgasmia too ... and Boy Howdy! ~ have i read some Unhappy women folks about it too!
~ j
Posted by Doug in PA on August 19, 2003, at 17:42:48
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl Doug, posted by x_Ronda_x on August 19, 2003, at 11:31:19
Hi,
Have you ever read a PDR or the little inserts the pharmacy includes (sometimes) with your prescription??? I try to NOT read them until I have what I think may be a side effect, then I check it out. I have often wondered about the dozens of possible side effects that are cited and think that probably only one person in a thousand has one. They only list them to CYA.
After reading all the posts at this site, I realize that a lot more than one person will have a peculiar side effect. MY favorite warning for a prescription is for the sleeping pill "Ambien".
Warning...may cause drowsiness. At over $2 a pill, it better cause drowsiness. One day I hope to find a "super pill" that does it all with no side effects for me. Until then, like you I am on the same rollercoaster. You are not alone.
Doug in PA
=====================================> Hi .. I'm a newbie to this site, searching for answers.
>
> I was switched three weeks ago from Celexa to Lexapro. Of course, I'm switched every time I go to the dr. Feels like a rollercoaster most of the time. I'm on 10 mg Lexapro, 150 Effexor-XR, 150 trileptal, and either I sleep all the time, or not at all. That's not even counting the Neuronton 4 times a day, and Xanax at night, if I'm awake long enough to take the rest of them. After three years, I'm really tired of this medicine-go-round. I just WISH they could find SOME combination that worked. Still on therapy, but I agree ... the head-nodding and vague reflections on what I say does little to help me find a way to get structure, direction, OR my life back.
>
>
Posted by lil' jimi on August 19, 2003, at 18:16:21
In reply to re: Any BPD screening tests online? :- » lil' jimi, posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 0:53:31
hi Gal!
somehow or 'nother, i missed your post, till now:
> hi jimbo ;)
> yep Borderline Personality Disorder-you got it right-I wish I had a million for a prize;) I'm sure you could use it. I know I could LOL
> Anyway, thanks so much for the sites, I really appreciate it-you're very kind to do that!
>
> Gal
>... and you're sure you don't have that million?
... well, daggumit, i already spent it!
... kind? ... kind of crazy !!!! Ah HA hA!
... (thanks for the compliment! ... is bdp your dx?)
... and you are most welcomed ...
... you are among the group of new nice people we've gotten here at the lex thread and i appreciate y'all's spirits ... you're brightening up the place ...
... thanks for that ....take care !!
~ jim
>
>
>
>
>
> > hi Gal Pal,
> >
> > i thought i could find a screening test for anything ... ... maybe
> > .... but we just did the bi-polar screening, right?
> > .... so we're not wanting that Bi-Polar Disorder, BPD, now do we ... ?
> >
> > so ... i'm in guessing mode here ... er, Borderline Personality Disorder, BPD, this time ... maybe?
> >
> > try
> > http://www.med.nyu.edu/Psych/screens/pds.html
> > http://depression.about.com/cs/bpd/
> > http://www.dr-bob.org/tips/split/Treatment-of-people-with-b.html
> > http://www.palace.net/~llama/psych/bpd.html
> >
> > well, it looks to me like the only screening test available are not free online ... ...
> > ... but from these websites we could make our own test ... ... sorry i couldn't find one
> > ... ... i bet someone does though!
> >
> > hope this helps!
> > did i get BPD right, anyway?
> >
> > TAKE CARE !!
> > ~ jim
>
>
Posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 18:58:44
In reply to re: Any BPD screening tests online? :- » galkeepinon, posted by lil' jimi on August 19, 2003, at 18:16:21
hi jimbo !!!:-)
Thanks for the compliment-appreciate that-------A LOT!!! I needed to hear that :-) I scrounged around for a prize again fo ya but all I found was an old dog toy, a button, and some lint--LOL sorry:-(
Yeah, some of my psychiatrists in the past had labeled me with BPD tendencies and I fully agree-just part of my personality I guess-working on changing for sure though-one day at a time.
I like this Lex thread too! Everyone who has posted has been very helpful-not to mention kind and brought such joy to it all.
((hugs)) keep posting........
> hi Gal!
>
> somehow or 'nother, i missed your post, till now:
> > hi jimbo ;)
> > yep Borderline Personality Disorder-you got it right-I wish I had a million for a prize;) I'm sure you could use it. I know I could LOL
> > Anyway, thanks so much for the sites, I really appreciate it-you're very kind to do that!
> >
> > Gal
> >
>
> ... and you're sure you don't have that million?
> ... well, daggumit, i already spent it!
> ... kind? ... kind of crazy !!!! Ah HA hA!
> ... (thanks for the compliment! ... is bdp your dx?)
> ... and you are most welcomed ...
> ... you are among the group of new nice people we've gotten here at the lex thread and i appreciate y'all's spirits ... you're brightening up the place ...
> ... thanks for that ....
>
> take care !!
> ~ jim
>
>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > > hi Gal Pal,
> > >
> > > i thought i could find a screening test for anything ... ... maybe
> > > .... but we just did the bi-polar screening, right?
> > > .... so we're not wanting that Bi-Polar Disorder, BPD, now do we ... ?
> > >
> > > so ... i'm in guessing mode here ... er, Borderline Personality Disorder, BPD, this time ... maybe?
> > >
> > > try
> > > http://www.med.nyu.edu/Psych/screens/pds.html
> > > http://depression.about.com/cs/bpd/
> > > http://www.dr-bob.org/tips/split/Treatment-of-people-with-b.html
> > > http://www.palace.net/~llama/psych/bpd.html
> > >
> > > well, it looks to me like the only screening test available are not free online ... ...
> > > ... but from these websites we could make our own test ... ... sorry i couldn't find one
> > > ... ... i bet someone does though!
> > >
> > > hope this helps!
> > > did i get BPD right, anyway?
> > >
> > > TAKE CARE !!
> > > ~ jim
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 19:23:45
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl Doug, posted by x_Ronda_x on August 19, 2003, at 11:31:19
Hi Ronda, I just started Lexapro 3 weeks ago and it has done well for me. It makes me sleepy in the day though and some nights it makes me an insomniac!!! So, YES, a roller coaster, indeed.
Hang in there, if you need anything, please feel free to ask~~everyone is very helpful here:-)
> Hi .. I'm a newbie to this site, searching for answers.
>
> I was switched three weeks ago from Celexa to Lexapro. Of course, I'm switched every time I go to the dr. Feels like a rollercoaster most of the time. I'm on 10 mg Lexapro, 150 Effexor-XR, 150 trileptal, and either I sleep all the time, or not at all. That's not even counting the Neuronton 4 times a day, and Xanax at night, if I'm awake long enough to take the rest of them. After three years, I'm really tired of this medicine-go-round. I just WISH they could find SOME combination that worked. Still on therapy, but I agree ... the head-nodding and vague reflections on what I say does little to help me find a way to get structure, direction, OR my life back.
>
>
Posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 19:30:12
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and...., posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 15:02:02
>>>>but does anyone know what, specifically makes someone a candidate for Lexapro as opposed to another drug?
Hiya Lex :-) For me, it was a matter of trial and error at first-years ago, but 3 weeks ago when I was crying non-stop, suicidal, and Effexor pooped out, my doctor gave me Lexapro:
1) because Celexa had worked well for me in the past and Lex was similar,
2) because Lex has that *property* of supposedly kicking in fast.
Also, I think one's doctor tends to go on what a person's siblings have been on, if anything, what has worked for them, or what a particular person has tried. In my opinion-*great* doctors will do this.
Am I making sense? I think I understand your question:~|
Take care
I'm glad we all seem intelligent and well-informed enough to understand this.
>
> On a different thread, reading these posts makes me wonder why, besides the persuasive - verging on demonic - nature of pharmaceutical companies, we are prescribed one medication over another? I've looked around the other babble pages and there seem to be commonalities, but I am really wondering why I was put on Lex first. I'm sure doctors know about the options and have pressure from several drug companies. I also know that a lot of people are being told to switch from Celexa to Lexapro, but does anyone know what, specifically makes someone a candidate for Lexapro as opposed to another drug?
>
> Thanks,
> Lex
Posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 19:35:36
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl Doug PDR, posted by Doug in PA on August 19, 2003, at 17:42:48
Hi Doug-you made me smile when I read this *At over $2 a pill, it better cause drowsiness*--yer darn right LOL I hear ya. The drug manufacturers have to list EVERY single side effect a person experiences on a med, which is scary if you read those little inserts, I like to read them for the chemical make-up, etc.
One day I do hope you find a "super pill" that does it all with no side effects for you, I wish the same for me and nope~you, and all of us are NEVER alone :~)
Take care.
> Hi,
> Have you ever read a PDR or the little inserts the pharmacy includes (sometimes) with your prescription??? I try to NOT read them until I have what I think may be a side effect, then I check it out. I have often wondered about the dozens of possible side effects that are cited and think that probably only one person in a thousand has one. They only list them to CYA.
> After reading all the posts at this site, I realize that a lot more than one person will have a peculiar side effect. MY favorite warning for a prescription is for the sleeping pill "Ambien".
> Warning...may cause drowsiness. At over $2 a pill, it better cause drowsiness. One day I hope to find a "super pill" that does it all with no side effects for me. Until then, like you I am on the same rollercoaster. You are not alone.
Doug in PA
Posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 19:49:54
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and.... » Lex Poster Girl, posted by galkeepinon on August 19, 2003, at 19:30:12
Hey Gal,
Yes, you got it precisely (christ, I wish this thing had spell check). The personal side of my question is that this is the first antidepressant I've ever been on - I wish someone had kicked me in the head years ago and thrown me on something - particularly after being in the hospital for three weeks after a very close to successful suicide attempt over six years ago. My last crash happened while I, fortunately, had insurance so I went to my new doctor and she looked at me as if I'd been struggling with cancer all my life and no one had ever suggested treatment. I'm familiar with the non-stop crying, suicidal tendencies, etc. I guess one of the reasons she put me on lex was because I hadn't slept or kept food down in three weeks and obviously needed something that would kick in fast. My mother has been supportive, but I haven't even told my siblings despite our closeness.
I went to a page about zoloft after talking to a friend about it and was surprised by the different tone of the place. At the risk of sounding like a virtual geek, I kind of felt at home in Lex land right away and the first response I got from Wayne made me want to go out dancing again - so I did. It's been a long time since I've wanted to be active and social. I kind of wonder if lex makes the people on this board similar or if our similarities make us candidates for lex.
I'm also curious about thoughts on depression (has anyone else wanted a better name for it than that?) being genetic. Are your siblings also on ADs?
I've got pills that make me happy...
Lex
Posted by Dinah on August 19, 2003, at 20:01:37
In reply to re: Any BPD screening tests online? :-, posted by mph-speedy on August 19, 2003, at 6:22:52
I'm borderline, but I keep flunking the darned tests. I finally had to conclude I'm borderline only on the inside.
Posted by BLKVETTES on August 19, 2003, at 21:34:21
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and...., posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 19:49:54
Hi Lex, I got you dancing huh!!!! Didnt even invite me, bummer!!! I was on 2 other meds before lexapro. I understand the questions you are asking. I have a half brother on zoloft we have different mothers same father. His mother has all kinds of disorders my mother does not. Our father is normal so he says. GO FIGURE!!! My brother takes zoloft I could not. Most doctors start at the top of the list of what works best for their patients and keep moving down until they hit the jackpot hopefully. Hey tell your siblings it could be useful info for a niece or nephew someday, but I hope no one in your family ever needs it. I tell everyone and anyone. In fact Im putting a lot of thoughts and statistics together and sending them to newspapers, tv stations and the school beard here in florida. I want kids diagnosed early and info put out for teenagers who are thinking about suicide. Something like 90% of teenagers who commit suicide have a mental disorder of some kind. Parents dont understand, society does not understand etc. etc. etc. SO SAD!!!!!!!!! I get emails from kids all the time!!! There parents say just get over it!!! Its just growing pains!!!! Makes me sick!!!! SORRY!!! Virtual geek, what are you saying we are geeks here. LOL!!!! Hey keep dancing!!!!!
WAYNE
Posted by trucker on August 19, 2003, at 22:01:35
In reply to Re: Depression Screening Test Online, posted by BLKVETTES on August 18, 2003, at 18:05:38
>
> > TAKE CARE !!
> > ~ jim
>
>
> IM CURED!!!! IM CURED!!!! TAKE CARE!!!!
> WAYNE
>
/////////////////////////////////////////////////i dearly love to two personalities here. i bet the devil sticks straight out ya'll eyes.i think we are all cured that the ones that need help are the ones out there sayin "i'm aslright, no one worry bout me" THEIR THE ONES TO WORRY ABOUT.. WE ADMITTED WE NEEDED HELP!!!
trucker
Posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 22:09:30
In reply to LEX POSTER GIRL, posted by BLKVETTES on August 19, 2003, at 21:34:21
Hey Wayne,
So sorry, just figured you couldn't get to Chitown on such short notice :)
I think if there is a genetic link in my family - it was my father. My hesitance to tell my brothers is not shame as I am the Lex Poster Girl in both senses these days. Sometimes I think I'm too quick to tell people but, for me, it's a bit like finding a great new book or band - I want everyone to know about it. I've even begun writing about my experiences for a local paper and send the columns to all my friends. Being the baby sister, I'm tired of my brothers being so worried about me all the time and they are both so thrilled with my current disposition that I would hate for them to have to be confronted with their sister's problems all over again, particularly because we're spread out across the country and no one is breeding at this point so that's not an issue. I'm at about 8 weeks with lex and will share that with them when it seems appropriate.
I would be really interested in any of the information you have compiled. I remember the difficulty I faced in my high school and college years and would not wish what I went through on anyone. I'm looking into volunteering for a suicide hotline now that I feel I'm stable enough to be of use to others.
So, did the other meds not work or did you adjust to them? I've done so well on lex that I kind of get anxiety about it not having the same effect in the future.
And, by the way, I'm quite proud of my newfound geekdom - I've found it quite helpful.
Take care,
Lexey
Posted by oldhand on August 19, 2003, at 22:28:36
In reply to Teeth Grinding on Lex., posted by Suzy on August 18, 2003, at 18:37:59
> Have been on Lex for about 9 months. Started on 10 and then went down to 5. Just recently "about 3 weeks ago" I went back up to 10. Didn't seem to be having problems. Actually felt better. But I do put a lot of pressure on my teeth by clinching my mouth closed. Has anyone else noticed this and is there anything that can be done. My upper teeth are actually sore.
I also have the teeth grinding or jaw clenching from the Lex. I mentioned it to the dentist, requesting an appliance to wear at night and she suggested stress relief or relaxation exercizes and/or a glass of wine. Since a glass would not be enough for this old lush, I went out and bought myself something called The dentist's Night Guard. It cost around $20 at WalMart and you fit it to yourself. It has helped me condiderably after just a few days. My jaws no longer hurt all day and I feel as if my teeth are being spared some from all that pressure. It was not really difficult to get used to either, though the first night I woke up sleeping on it. He He He! Best of luck and let me know how it goes.
Posted by BLKVETTES on August 19, 2003, at 22:39:22
In reply to Re: LEX POSTER GIRL Wayne, posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 22:09:30
> Hey Wayne,
>
> So sorry, just figured you couldn't get to Chitown on such short notice :)
>
> I think if there is a genetic link in my family - it was my father. My hesitance to tell my brothers is not shame as I am the Lex Poster Girl in both senses these days. Sometimes I think I'm too quick to tell people but, for me, it's a bit like finding a great new book or band - I want everyone to know about it. I've even begun writing about my experiences for a local paper and send the columns to all my friends. Being the baby sister, I'm tired of my brothers being so worried about me all the time and they are both so thrilled with my current disposition that I would hate for them to have to be confronted with their sister's problems all over again, particularly because we're spread out across the country and no one is breeding at this point so that's not an issue. I'm at about 8 weeks with lex and will share that with them when it seems appropriate.
>
> I would be really interested in any of the information you have compiled. I remember the difficulty I faced in my high school and college years and would not wish what I went through on anyone. I'm looking into volunteering for a suicide hotline now that I feel I'm stable enough to be of use to others.
>
> So, did the other meds not work or did you adjust to them? I've done so well on lex that I kind of get anxiety about it not having the same effect in the future.
>
> And, by the way, I'm quite proud of my newfound geekdom - I've found it quite helpful.
>
> Take care,
> LexeySo now its Lexey, does that mean were like friends now. JUST KIDDING!!!! Im really happy for you and your recovery. I know what it feels like to want to die because you cant control your thoughts. I cried for 70 days straight I swear to GOD. I was on paxil allergic reaction!!! My tongue and mouth and throat swelled up after upping the dose after about a week. Went straight to zoloft for about 3 weeks and kept getting sicker and sicker. My skin was turning red and it felt like I was on fire. New years eve I stopped all meds because I was truly a physical wreck. I had lost way to much weight, been up for 30 days straight, constant crying and boy did I want to die. I ended up in the hospital with severe stomach pain so bad I passed out. Well they did blood tests and come to find out my liver was shutting down on me. A very rare side effect of zoloft and other meds. So I guess you could say zoloft and paxil did not agree with me. As far as info my favorites are filled with it on 3 screen names. You can go back on this site and search my name and see an amazing recovery from panic, anxiety and depression and who knows how many links I have posted. Things like post partum, hormones, stuff about meds, statistics, how to withdrawal from meds, how to take meds. I go to about 6 boards and am always answering posts and emails. I had to block my IM because it was zapping my energy. But if people email and want to chat I open it up. I even just posted this link for new people on other boards to help if they are desperate. Its what I do, its my passion next to my daughter of course. Even though I have recovered it was meant for me to help others I believe. I get thank yous all the time. Im just glad they are getting their lives back like I did. I still worry about the poop out. I remember flowers for algernon and wonder if I will regress like that. It scares me!!!!!!!!!!! Im glad you want to help others also with the hotline. Kind of weird I posted this today. Maybe we all do belong together. TAKE CARE!!!!
WAYNE
http://suicidehotlines.com/
Posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 23:12:04
In reply to Re: LEX POSTER GIRL Wayne, posted by BLKVETTES on August 19, 2003, at 22:39:22
Oh sure, while I'm more than happy to talk to anyone about my lex fix - the whole being suicidal thing isn't common knowledge. I'm not really sure I'll ever recover. Speaking to my mother on the phone the other day, it was interesting to find that she mentioned 4th grade as the onset, which I agreed with. I guess I see it as more of a chronic thing that I'm glad I've learned some more effective ways to manage. I'm not sure I would have had the strength to keep trying this stuff if it lex had gone as badly for me as pax and Zoloft had gone for you. I'm actually on 20mgs of lex - 10 just wasn't doing it, but I've always had a high tolerance for meds, alcohol, etc.
This is getting a bit addictive for me - but I recently dropped the head nodding therapist who was convinced that there must be a root to my problem. My response was to ask how anyone with half a brain could go through this world without being depressed. Anyway, it's an exchange of time I guess and I've found this quite a bit more productive. The therapist was very hesitant to say anything about the medication. I'm not one to think that you have to have been there to be of use, but it seems like she could have said something besides asking a bunch of useless rhetorical questions.
It's been a long time since I've read Flowers for Algernon, but it had such an impact on me. Probably not the best thing to be rereading now. Let's just hope the lex works till they approve something new.
Perhaps we should send the makers of Lexapro a fruit basket.
Lex, Lexey, Alexis…it's all pretty much the same…
Posted by BLKVETTES on August 19, 2003, at 23:31:04
In reply to Re: LEX POSTER GIRL Wayne, posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 23:12:04
> Oh sure, while I'm more than happy to talk to anyone about my lex fix - the whole being suicidal thing isn't common knowledge. I'm not really sure I'll ever recover. Speaking to my mother on the phone the other day, it was interesting to find that she mentioned 4th grade as the onset, which I agreed with. I guess I see it as more of a chronic thing that I'm glad I've learned some more effective ways to manage. I'm not sure I would have had the strength to keep trying this stuff if it lex had gone as badly for me as pax and Zoloft had gone for you. I'm actually on 20mgs of lex - 10 just wasn't doing it, but I've always had a high tolerance for meds, alcohol, etc.
>
> This is getting a bit addictive for me - but I recently dropped the head nodding therapist who was convinced that there must be a root to my problem. My response was to ask how anyone with half a brain could go through this world without being depressed. Anyway, it's an exchange of time I guess and I've found this quite a bit more productive. The therapist was very hesitant to say anything about the medication. I'm not one to think that you have to have been there to be of use, but it seems like she could have said something besides asking a bunch of useless rhetorical questions.
>
> It's been a long time since I've read Flowers for Algernon, but it had such an impact on me. Probably not the best thing to be rereading now. Let's just hope the lex works till they approve something new.
>
> Perhaps we should send the makers of Lexapro a fruit basket.
>
> Lex, Lexey, Alexis…it's all pretty much the same…
>Hi Alexis, thats a pretty name!!!! Glad to know you!!!! This is also my last post for the day. After paxil and zoloft I was scared to try lexapro. In fact one of the shrinks wanted me to try these horse pills 3 times a day. I said no thanks strike 3 time for a new shrink. The lex is a tiny pill but I was really scared. I have a low tolerance for meds and I take about 7.5mg and have been as high as 10mg. But I had no choice but to take it. A lot of people refuse meds!!! I just have to believe they never felt that overwhelming pain that I did. I have also not read that book since I was a kid it just stood out for some reason. There is also this song by Marmalade called Reflections of My Life. I have heard it thousands of times and never got tired of hearing it. Its a ballad for depressed people I guess. Would have never thought that song would have meaning in my life. GOD BLESS!!!!!
WAYNE
Posted by Dr. Bob on August 19, 2003, at 23:35:13
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and...., posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 19:49:54
> I wish this thing had spell check
OK, I added a box, under the "submit your post" button, where you can type (or paste in) a word and have it checked by Merriam-Webster OnLine. Sorry, it won't do a whole post all at once...
Bob
Posted by galkeepinon on August 20, 2003, at 3:07:45
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and...., posted by Lex Poster Girl on August 19, 2003, at 19:49:54
Hey Lex :-)
Well, I see ya got your spell check;) Thanks Dr. Bob:-)
I'm glad your suicide attempt was not succesful!!!!Good for Wayne~~~giving you that suggestion! Dance the night away :-) I have had a hard time getting out and socializing too, heck I can't even get back into my schoolwork.
When you said *I kind of wonder if lex makes the people on this board similar or if our similarities make us candidates for lex*~~~you make such a good point! I wonder that too. I think (and it's late and I'm tired lol) but I think that I agree with the second part because it seems that a lot of us have tried so many different meds and have either had *poop-out* or horrible side effects, so we go from one med to the next, in hopes to find something that will 'work'. Depression is depression, and I think we who suffer from it have very similar feelings. I would venture to see if someone disagreed? So that would bring us together in terms of giving Lexapro a try and thus sharing our posts about our experiences on this board:-)Just my thoughts.......
Since the start of my depression in 1992-although I just told my family tonight I believe mine started when my folks got divorced in 1983, I now like to say *my life took a detour* hoping it will get back on track someday. Does that make sense? lol
Yes, my siblings are both on anti-depressants and my mom takes bp meds that basically act as anti-anxiety meds ;) (clonidine) My grandmother has had OCD all her life but is anti-med to the hilt, and my dad, well.... he uses everything else to numb his pain except maybe what he should have, like AD's--but who am I to point out character defects.
I'm glad that you've got pills that make YOU happy :-) and so far the Lexapro is making me happy so we're both happy....ain't that great!!
lol *laugh*
Have a good one,
gal> Hey Gal,
>
> Yes, you got it precisely (christ, I wish this thing had spell check). The personal side of my question is that this is the first antidepressant I've ever been on - I wish someone had kicked me in the head years ago and thrown me on something - particularly after being in the hospital for three weeks after a very close to successful suicide attempt over six years ago. My last crash happened while I, fortunately, had insurance so I went to my new doctor and she looked at me as if I'd been struggling with cancer all my life and no one had ever suggested treatment. I'm familiar with the non-stop crying, suicidal tendencies, etc. I guess one of the reasons she put me on lex was because I hadn't slept or kept food down in three weeks and obviously needed something that would kick in fast. My mother has been supportive, but I haven't even told my siblings despite our closeness.
>
> I went to a page about zoloft after talking to a friend about it and was surprised by the different tone of the place. At the risk of sounding like a virtual geek, I kind of felt at home in Lex land right away and the first response I got from Wayne made me want to go out dancing again - so I did. It's been a long time since I've wanted to be active and social. I kind of wonder if lex makes the people on this board similar or if our similarities make us candidates for lex.
>
> I'm also curious about thoughts on depression (has anyone else wanted a better name for it than that?) being genetic. Are your siblings also on ADs?
>
> I've got pills that make me happy...
>
> Lex
>
Posted by fallsfall on August 20, 2003, at 9:03:03
In reply to Re: spell check, posted by Dr. Bob on August 19, 2003, at 23:35:13
Posted by Esmarelda on August 20, 2003, at 12:21:47
In reply to Re: All of these Online Screening Tests and.... » Lex Poster Girl, posted by galkeepinon on August 20, 2003, at 3:07:45
Well, I guess I am just jumping in, but that's what this is all about, huh? No one in my family has ever been diagnosed with depression except me and it did not ever surface until about 1997. I think mine tends to be situational - extreme job,relationship or interpersonal stress. This time, my grandmother's death set it off, then my boyfriend of 3 years bailed 2 weeks after that, then my brother broke into my house and I had to call the police on him, then two other deaths in the family and so on and so on. Everyone has a sob story. But, back to the point, my brother is an alcoholic and probably depressed and definitely not normal. Who knows if anyone has ever diagnosed him with anything and what or what he has ever been on. I, personally, think my Mom has been depressed on and off ( at least during my adult life). She has taken valium most of her adult life from as far back as I can remember for "panic" attacks. She self diagnosed her self 25+ years ago with "agoraphobia" - does that sound like depression or what? Anyway, makes you wonder about the familial connections??? And, then the question of do we have similar personalities that makes Lex appropriate for us? Who knows? I am definite type A, with highly stressful job. It sure is interesting and all of you and this site has been a great deal of help to me understanding the side effects of Lex and dealing with my depression. Sometimes it helps just knowing that you are not totally crazy and others are experiencing the same thing. Although, I would not wish this on anyone and it is definitely NOT a misery loves company! Anyway, thanks. I am rambling now so I better go! Oh yeah, one more thing. I wondered why when I went out to water my roses for about 5 minutes and was dripping sweat like I had jumped in a swimming pool. Thanks to you guys, I knew it was the Lex. Small price to pay to be able to get out of bed and leave the house, though!
Posted by oldhand on August 20, 2003, at 13:06:02
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl Doug » galkeepinon, posted by Doug in PA on August 18, 2003, at 19:26:55
Hi Doug,
I read this board all the time but post rarely. Something in your posts has prompted me to respond with my experience with depression.
Get your reading glasses cause this may take awhile, lol.
I have been taking some kind of AD for around 7 years now. From therapy and Psychiatrist evaluations I have come to believe I have suffered on and off since I was eighteen years old. I turned 54 yesterday.. I have been self-medicating with alcohol (and other drugs, legal and not in my younger years), since I could get a fake ID.
I also had a very responsible, stressful job. I hava a Master's in Social Work and one in Public Administration, was assistant director at a county Human Services Department. I took a disability retirement on Jan. 8, 2000 after fighting for around three years to stay.
I have posted before that I believe that alcohol contributed significantly to AD poop-out for me. I have, since December, all but quit using alcohol for fear that the Lex will also poop out. My current pshchiatrist believes that I have suffered the effects of alcohol abuse. I tend to agree but it is hard to tell wheter the symptoms are from alcohol or depression. What struck me in your posts was your work situation. Depression does cause inability to focus and concentrate (am I preaching to the choir here?) It made my work impossible for me, but it can improve. And besides, we ALL have bad and good days, those where nothing goes right, those where all is well and we say a Thank-You prayer.
I guess my point is to offer you some more words of encouragement as you sound so very discouraged at times. I say, keep up the good fight. If you use alcohol, reduce or stop. Get exercize, my pdoc said new studies show regeneration of those all-important brain cells when we exercize.
There are good counsellors and therapists out there! Keep looking til you find one. You will know which one is right. Do not settle for the nodding, non-committal, "AHH, and how do you feel about that?". There are different therapeutic modalities as well. Read up on them, see which one you are attracted to, and ask potential employees which they practise.
Guess I have rambled enough. Hope I was alittle helpful or encouraging.
Posted by Esmarelda on August 20, 2003, at 13:28:08
In reply to Re: Anyone switched to Lexapro? « ggrrl Doug » Doug in PA, posted by oldhand on August 20, 2003, at 13:06:02
Oldhand prompted me to add to my previous post. I have used alcohol since I was about 14 or 15. Back when younger, other drugs, too. So Oldhand, what you said kind of struck home. Maybe I have been self medicating longer than I thought and just thought I had depression only as recent as 1997. I also have an advanced degree with a very stressful job, always the overachiever and perfectionist! I have not been able to concentrate for 4 months. That's why I am here now instead on not working. Some days are better than others. I am fortunate, that my job had slowed down in the past few months and I have not let anything slide beyond repair! If this helps you Doug, or anyone else -- I can only share???
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