Category: depression

Coping Strategies, depression

What depression looks like for me

Nicola Joy

After 4 months on anti-depressants and 2 months seeing a psychologist, the other night I turned to my husband and said, “I have depression.” To which he said something like, “Um…yes.” What I meant was that I finally discovered what depression looks like for me. It can look different for everybody. Because I was diagnosed with PND (post-natal depression, aka post-partum depression), I believed that once things with my children settled down, I would go back to feeling better, to feeling like myself. Just automatically. Things settled down – my youngest child started walking, being able to do things independently, and … Continue reading What depression looks like for me

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Taking my meds part the third

Nicola Joy

So 2 months later (been a long time, sorry!), and here is an update. I am now on 10mg of escitalopram per day (aka Lexapro/Loxalate/Cipralex/probably several other brands). The transition from 5mg to 10mg was easier than the transition from 0 to 5mg. I didn’t experience as much dizziness or fatigue. My brain didn’t feel as fuzzy. And after taking 10mg for 1 week, I felt perfectly normal. Has it helped? I think so. I am more able to recognise the little things as “little things”. When my kids are melting down, I am no longer melting down with them the … Continue reading Taking my meds part the third

depression

Taking my meds part 2

Nicola Joy

Quick update: 3rd dose of 5mg Lexapro (actually the brand I’m taking is called Loxalate – sounds like “lots of luck” – not sure if this is good or not ;-). So far side effects include: Fatigue Headache A little nausea (not as bad as morning sickness though) Feeling fuzzy in the head or spaced out. All in all, quite normal. Will be nice to feel less wiped out, but that will happen. I’ve nearly got through half of the first week already! I believe I’m not supposed to take ibuprofen while taking this medicine, but I’m unsure if my … Continue reading Taking my meds part 2

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“Have you taken your meds?” (Or, my journey with medication)

Nicola Joy

Yes I have taken my meds. Tonight was the first time ever.  A couple of weeks ago, I was diagnosed with post-natal depression and anxiety. Signs and symptoms I experienced included: Feeling isolated, weepy and down  Feeling overwhelmed anytime my husband isn’t home to help me Feeling a sense of failure and agitation when I can’t settle my youngest child or when he cries (which is often) Not feeling like myself anymore A couple of anxiety attacks – shakiness, crying, nausea, stabbing pain in stomach Waves of anxiety coming over me at random intervals Thoughts of wanting to run away … Continue reading “Have you taken your meds?” (Or, my journey with medication)