Antidepressant, side effects? (trig)

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-17-2005
Antidepressant, side effects? (trig)
3
Thu, 02-09-2006 - 8:47am
I was diagnosed with major depression, extreme anxiety, and social anxiety disorder a few months ago. For about two weeks I've been on an antidepressant. The doctor said I should start noticing a difference between now and next week. I'm starting to feel a little different... sometimes a little better, but honestly I think I'm more responsive to suicide triggers lately.
About 3 years ago I came very close to attempting suicide by driving my car off the road into a tree... I pulled back onto the road at the last second though. Since then, no actual plans or formulations, but a lot of thoughts.
I'm afraid my depression might actually be getting worse, and when I watch movies now and I see suicide happening or being attempted, I feel a certain longing... to cut myself, like I used to.
Should I mention this to my doctor? I really want this medicne to work, and others haven't in the past.
Thanks,
- Natalie
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2004
Thu, 02-09-2006 - 11:48am
Hi Natalie - I too have recently started on an anti-depressant 2 weeks ago. I'm wondering when it is suppose to start 'working' as well. I am also at times feeling worse and am struggling with intense emotions and urges. Since I am a SI'er I can understand the desire to harm yourself. My doctor is already aware of my history regarding this and I personally think it might be a good idea if you shared your thoughts with your doctor. If you have managed to stop, it would be sad to start that cycle again as it can be so addictive. I've read that some anti-depressants can make you feel worse before they start to make you feel 'better',,,thus may possibly be the case for the ones we are on. I hope you can stay safe,,,please take care,,,Abby
iVillage Member
Registered: 02-12-2004
Thu, 02-09-2006 - 4:28pm

Hi Natalie and welcome to the board! I'm glad you found us and decided to reach out!


Sorry to hear things are so difficult for you right now... I (and others on this board) have been there and so I think you'll find valuable support both here and on other ivillage boards for these issues. Do you have support in real life as well? Family or friends? That is SOOOO important in most instances!


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iVillage Member
Registered: 08-02-2005
Fri, 02-10-2006 - 12:45pm

Hi Natalie, welcome


Yes, this is defiately something you should tell your doctor.


I'm sure you've heard of antidepressants being "blamed" for suicides. Well that is because the risk of suicide remains through treatment and it is possible that a suicidal person would start taking an antidepressant and start having the energy to do things again, including go through with plans of suicide.


Definately talk to you dr and if the urge gets too strong get yourself to the hospital.


Amanda