Hi Matt, welcome to the forums.
This is a safe space to give voice to silent concerns. It is your space to use as you wish, may it be to connect and share or just to let steam out.
I understand that being used as "guinea pig for pharmaceuticals" must have been off putting but things have changed over the years. Everyone of us deserves to be heard, to be treated as individual and with respect. But struggling alone is too difficult. It is also unnecessary.
There is a tendency to push depression under the carpet but we eventually find out it doesn't make it go away. Mental conditions are medical conditions that need to be regarded and treated as such. The mind depends on good functioning of the brain and the brain is just another body part. Nothing to do with weakness or a flawed personality. The stigma attached to mental illness is often self-imposed.
A reason to go on is that with the right help and support the situation can and will improve. Finding a good GP would be a first step. You may need to go on a health plan, perhaps medication. We are all different so react differently to similar treatments. Giving a prescribing doctor feedback about chosen treatment is the way to go. There is no other way for them to know exactly how you feel and what your concerns may be.
Please do not hesitate to let us know what you expect from joining the forums. It will help us support you the best we can. Rest assured you will be heard and understood.
Good to have you on board.
