Advice from parents about antidepressants

[Mit]

My son who is 20 has been given a prescription for an antidepressant. I am really scared for him because all the reading I have done said this drug is not good for young people. It can increase suicide feelings. Please looking for advice and experiences of other parents. 

[Neil_1]

Hi there Mit

Thank you for coming to Beyond Blue and providing this post ... though we all live and experience the dreadful effects of mental illness every day, I wouldn't be fully comfortable in being able to advise about what meds (or the possible side-effects) that your son should or shouldn't take.

 I do know that the companies need to put these 'warnings' in place to cover themselves, so they go and list as many possible side-effects, just on the slight chance that something may happen.

If you're really unsure, I would be possibly getting to an alternative doctor to seek their advice;  or if you're happy with your current GP, why not go back and discuss your concerns with them?

I know I haven't really given you an answer as to what you were possibly after, and I'm sorry for that, but as you'd agree, your son's health is the key importance here.  I'd be very happy for you to write back with any other concerns you may have and would love to respond to you again.

 Kind regards

 Neil

[Mit]

Thanks Neil, 

i have spoken with the doctor and have a little more confidence in the medication. I am really interested in people's experience of the drug any success stories or concerns from parents that I should be aware of. We have filled the prescription but He hasn't started it yet, I think he himself is a little nervous of taking it , I feel I need to be confident for him. He is a rural student heading back to uni soon so really important we are all confident in the pathway ahead as he lives alone. He is very reluctant to have counselling so medication seems the only pathway . 

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi Mit,

Welcome to the forums and glad that you've spoken to your son's doctor about the medication.  Unfortunately we are not able to share any specific experience with prescription medications on here as part of the forum community rules.

One resource that I have found personally very helpful with medications though is the NPS Medicine Wise website.  They have a 1800 number that you can call to ask information about medication and also a web-chat on the Facebook; plus it's all part of Australian Government so you're getting credible information.

One thing that might help you feel more reassured is finding out about the resources should your son want to talk to someone.  I know he's reluctant right now, but there other other ways, such as talking on here (which is anonymous and free), or eheadspace (online chat).  The university will also likely have a mental health service available for students should they require it. 

Hope this helps some,

Take care,