Medication started working and then depression got worse

[Jayjay89]

Hi,

I am posting on behalf of my husband who has been struggling with depression for years now. He recently started an antidepressant around 6 months ago and within 2 weeks he could start to feel it taking effect. after about a month there was a noticeable chance to his attitude and depression symptoms seemed to lighten. We were both excited by this and agreed that we could both notice a change.

after about 2-3 months though his depression seems to be back in full force and he says as though he feels it is worse and the medication is not helping at all. We visited the doctor over the weekend who said if they working in the beginning they advised increasing the dosage slightly rather than trying another brand/type.

After doing a lot of research I have seen some that suggests having a quick positive change followed by a rapid return of symptoms can actually be a bad thing and might suggest that the medication is not the right type for the user.

Has anyone experienced this before? he will continue to take them as the doctor advised I just wanted to see if this is a common thing to happen or if maybe he should talk to the doctor about switching to something different.

 Thanks all 🙂

[Kathryne]

Hi Jay Jay

My husband experience the same when commencing on anti depressants. He had his dosage increased and improved a tad more. He has been on same dose for 2 years now.  He still experiences some very low and will deny he is depressed,  stating he is only anxious. As a society we need to take away the stigma of mental health issues.  To allow people to be open a door honest,  and accept that mental health is an illness just like chicken pox, however you can't see the spots, 

Hang in there k with the current medication , however if you don't receive a noticeable improvement go back to your doctor for a review,

[trustlife]

Hi JayJay,

Can't really discuss the medical side of things, but it's great to see that you and your husband are both committed together to a solution. That's a big step on the way to perfect health. I would like to suggest that when your husband id feeling very well that you start specific activities together (hobbies, golf, painting, walking), to re-enforce the success. It's just a small point, but the more involved you are together in 'positive activities' the easier it becomes to snap out of any relapse. ie' "Do you remember that time we played golf at.. etc. All of these can become wonderful resources for you both and the mind loves them. Your doctor seems to know what he's doing so keep them in the loop.

[Carmela]

Hi JayJay,  when my husband started taking anti-depressants, it took 6 weeks to take effects and all seemed well. His depression returned 3 months later, due to work issues and stress.  The Dr raised his meds for a time. I am just wondering if something has occurred with your husband to trigger his depression?  For my husband, it doesn't have to be a major event but enough to make him question himself and bring on the darkness again. Have the conversation with your husband and try to look back on the last 3 months to identify changes or triggers.

I am pleased to hear that you are supporting each other. His is very fortunate to have you by his side. Don't give up JayJay. Depression requires patience with a dash of hope.  

[pipsy]

Hi Jayjay.  With any/all medication, there is a period of 'ups and downs'.  It sounds as though your Dr is 'on' to it.  Obviously your husband will have to be monitored while he's on the medication and your Dr seems to be doing this.  When he first started, your husband had apparently never taken meds for depression.  They usually take a few (in some cases it can be up to 6) weeks before you notice any changes.  As his system becomes accustomed to the meds, they seem to 'stop' working.  This is what's happened here.  When this happens the Dr adjusts the dosage till he gets it 'right'.  This may take 2 or 3 or more times, unfortunately, during this time, your husband's moods may alter.  Each time you see the Dr, inform him of any mood changes, so that he is aware of what's happening.  It may be an idea (if possible) to suggest counselling to your husband as well, I would discuss this with the Dr too.  If your husband has really bad side effects through medication, make sure you tell your Dr.  Discuss any worries about taking meds with your Dr before you change/stop taking them.

It sounds as though you're on the right track.