Hi-I'm new to medhelp and came to this general group of forums whilst researching chronic pain and methadone opiate treatment. I am a chronic pain patient, and due to overwhelming life circumstances 3 years ago, went on antidepressants to help me function daily.
After 7 trials with different formulas, I was put on Effexor and it is effective for me.
I seem to have seasonal affective disorder now also, as I need to up the Effexor in winter and can lower it in summer, however my minimum dose for effectivity is 150 mg a day.
I'm really interested if finding others who are working with the co-topics of chronic pain and depression and would greatly welcome posts from anyone else by way of support.
Depression is a terrible way to live. Last fall I spent 3 months in bed because I was too depressed to function, did not go to any family activities (said I was sick) or do anything. I never want to be that low again.
I found a depression group led by a nationally known author on depression recovery and am fortunate enough to be able to participate in that group when I need support.
Now that fall is here, I have become afraid of going back into the cycle of miserableness I was in last year-what can I do to stay out of it?
Suggestions appreciated
january43