Very treatment resistant depression/anxiety

Anonymouz · ‎12-10-2015

Title says it all... How long do I have to keep living like this? I've tried 8 different antidepressant medications from the ssri/snri category. And about to start my 9th one which is from the TCA category which I also have no hope for... I don't know how I'm going to cope if this doesn't work. I've seen 2 different psychologists and psychiatrists, got nowhere with the first lot as they both recommended me to one another which isn't comforting at all..

The first psychiatrist saying I'd have to work together with a psychologist and the psychologist saying I'd need to work on finding the right medication first...( they were notes they left with my GP ) Leading no where and no wonder I've lost hope, that itself is depressing. Onto the 2nd lot and I just can't budge and also getting no where with the psychologist and he knows that himself I can tell.. Although I've just gotten a new medication from the psych but I don't know how I'll keep managing...

I'm currently not working or studying, have never worked, and struggled studying and only had to do that because my job provider pushed me into it.. I want to apply for DSP because I'm sick of running on this hamster wheel.. I don't even want the extra money or whatever, I'm just sick of explaining my situation to different centrelink workers or job provider works all the time. Two psychiatrists have told me I wouldn't have a chance at DSP so do I continue living like this until I can't take it anymore? In saying that the first psychologist recommended DSP and the 2nd wasn't sure but he didn't say I'd have no hope he just said it'd be hard... It's embarassing enough to have to rely on that in the future but how can I go on like this? Been saying that for years but each day get slightly worse! I have a centrelink assessment coming up and who knows how that'll play out... Nervous just thinking about it.

Narniakid · ‎13-10-2015

Hey Anonymouz, welcome to the forums and thank you for reaching out to us.

I'm sorry to hear you've had some trouble with your treatments. While quite often treatment of mental illness can take a few tries, it can be frustrating, I hear you. I went through a number of different psychologists before I found one that was helpful to me and I connected well with her, but I am glad I stuck it out and kept looking because I've had her for quite a number of years now and I've made some remarkable steps towards recovery: I've been able to get a job, finish school, get my license, and find some areas of study that I actually enjoy.

Don't give up hope yet! I know it's difficult now but soon you'll find the right psychologist and some effective medication. In the meantime, we are always here to listen and support you, and the hotline is avaliable to you as well.

Crystal

HyperDave · ‎14-10-2015

Hi, can I ask was there any particular age when your problems with depression and anxiety started? Also roughly how old are you now?

I really hope things improve for you.

Paul · ‎14-10-2015

Hey Anonymouz - keep holding on. I understand what it's like to not find effective treatment. While I responded OK to antidepressants, It took me a while to find a therapist who knew what I needed and also who I felt comfortable with.

The DSP and centrelink situation sounds like it isn't helping you feel any better. Do you have a case manager or can you ask for one who you can see each visit without having to explain your case every time?

Finding the right medication can be downright crappy sometimes. I got the impression that you weren't filled with any hope with the new medication. Keep holding on, there is hope. Sometimes it feels like things will never be any better, but they will.

Stay in touch with us here and let us know how you're going. As Crystal (Narniakid) said, there's the hotline too if you need to chat.

Paul

Anonymouz · ‎14-10-2015

I'd say I had problems with them as far back as 14... Got worse at 16 and had to leave school. I'm currently 20.. It's a shame I'm only young but I've definitely tried several reasonable treatments and call it being negative if you want but it's clear to me no further treatment is going to be significant enough to get me stable to work or even enjoy life and take interest in it in general..

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Anonymouz · ‎14-10-2015

Thanks for the reply lats,

The thing is both psychologists I've had have been great and I have felt comfortable with them.. I just don't believe any can help me it's the sad truth, so no point on trying to find a different one. I've tried cbt and some other approach but forgot what it's called. It just doesn't do anything.. which turns out me being slightly out of pocket to remain unchanged, so frustrating.

Another thing is I go to these appointments to show centrelink/job provider that I'm trying to get better and not just doing nothing, not because I actually believe something will make me feel better even the slightest because after several medications and therapy, you can't help but lose hope...

beyondblue's clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.