Hi Mystery Belle. I was diagnosed with major depressive/anxiety disorder in 1995 when I was in my mid-30s. I had experienced both disorders since childhood and had put off seeking help for years because of the stigma attached to mental health issues and also because I was in denial that my issues were serious.
It reached the point where I really had no choice as I could barely function. I spoke to my GP about how badly I was feeling and that I wanted to be referred to a mental healthcare professional. He arranged for me to see a psychiatrist, however, I had to wait 2 weeks to see him. My GP suggested starting an antidepressant prior to an assessment by the psychiatrist. I understood the reason for this was that I had 2 weeks to wait before seeing the psychiatrist; I was very depressed; he was concerned about my welfare; and his opinion was the sooner I started an antidepressant medication the sooner I would have a little more control over my emotional state.
Antidepressants typically can take up to 6 weeks before there is any noticeable effect. I have spoken to others and it seems that it is quite common for GPs to prescribe antidepressant medication prior to referral when a patient presents with a serious depression. I was very fortunate in that the medication began to "kick in" within a few weeks. When I did see the psychiatrist my mood had very slightly improved and so the treatment process began to take effect sooner.
Initially I found the whole process of seeking help very daunting and, at times, overwhelming -this too is very common. However, after a few months it did get easier and I'm pretty sure it will for you too. Good luck and best wishes for your recovery.
LH
