Hello, I am new here.

[VSS]

I have been struggling over the past couple months with what seems like depression that has come back from the past. It runs in my family, and although I have never personally been treated for it, I have seen the effects on my family members, and unfortunately, I think it's my turn.

I live far away from my friends and family, and feel like I lack support and personal connections with the people around me.
I won't go into detail with how I have been feeling, but I feel like my attempts to get help have failed and I need some encouragement.

I've visted a GP with the intention of having an assessment for a Mental Health Plan. Because I don't have someone to open up to, I wanted to talk to someone. Rather than taking the time to assess me, the doctor simply said "I won't waste either one of our time" and prescribed me anti-depressants.

Am I supposed to believe that taking these pills will solve the problem? I know they'd make me feel better... but I don't want a temporary fix. I really want to speak to someone. As with anyone with anxiety would understand, making this appointment was already stressful for me. I've been so discouraged to make another appointment... but I don't think I should wait anyone. I don't think I CAN wait anymore.

Here for some encouragement. Hoping I don't sound helpless.
Thanks.

[geoff]

Hello VSS, I am deeply sorry that your appointment with the doctor was totally unsatisfactory, this can really be a knockback for you.

Taking antidepressants (AD) is one way to begin your treatment but to overcome depression it should go along with counselling, the two of these should be combined in order for you or anyone else to know what triggers their downward spiral.

Can I suggest that you see another GP by clicking on 'Get Support', now to main page has changed and you can find this by scrolling down to the blue part of this page and at the bottom find it.

There is a K-10 depression test which might be a good idea for you to do several times, not straight after the other because this is important to take to the doctor.

I am concerned that you are feeling like this especially after your family has struggled with it as well and if you want to come back and open up a little bit then we might be able to help you further.

Geoff.

[VSS]

Hello Geoff,

Thank you very much for the suggestions. It was such a disappointing experience for me, perhaps because I was expecting something out of it and walked out with something completely different.

The experience made me question myself and made me wonder if medications were the easy way, but you are right. They need to go hand in hand with opening up to someone.

I will admit, I have been a bit set back... The thought of it happening again just discourages me from even looking again... but I will definitely seek another GP.

Thanks again.

[geoff]

Hi VSS, an experience like this is certainly not what anyone should have to go through, it puts a damper on your situation which can make you feel awful, again I'm really sorry it happened, but would be keen to know if you have been able to find another doctor.

What I was trying to say in my first reply was to click on 'Get Support' and scroll down until you see 'Find a professional', these are doctors who are aligned to BB and deal in mental health.

Take care.

Geoff.