Hi,
I've been struggling very much with depression lately and have been trying to pinpoint the reason. I have a history of clinical depression since childhood and was treated successfully for it, and it has been about 7 years since I've felt seriously affected by depression- or had strong feelings of hopelessness, anger, apathy, and self-harm/suicidal thoughts. All these feelings have been coming back in the past month at full force.
I consider my personal life to be stressful but not depression inducing- I graduated from college 6 months ago and am working 2 jobs and getting by, though not without some financial struggle. I have a good support system through friends and have all my needs met except maybe getting enough sleep.
I have been on ritalin for ADHD for 6 years- 20-60mg a day, and 5mg valium a day for anxiety and treatment of meniere's disease for about 1 year now. I have read that both of these drugs can cause depression, especially in long term use, and wanted to know if anyone has had experience with serious depression as a side effect of one or both drugs with extended use.
My depression is starting to seriously affect my daily life and relationships. I am scared and want to try and ween myself off one or both medications but worried about the adjustment period with my hectic schedule. I definitely do not want to add anymore medications such as an antidepressant. I ordered some SAM-e and st johns wart supplements today and am hopeful they may help in natural treatment.
Any advice would be appreciated.
I've been struggling very much with depression lately and have been trying to pinpoint the reason. I have a history of clinical depression since childhood and was treated successfully for it, and it has been about 7 years since I've felt seriously affected by depression- or had strong feelings of hopelessness, anger, apathy, and self-harm/suicidal thoughts. All these feelings have been coming back in the past month at full force.
I consider my personal life to be stressful but not depression inducing- I graduated from college 6 months ago and am working 2 jobs and getting by, though not without some financial struggle. I have a good support system through friends and have all my needs met except maybe getting enough sleep.
I have been on ritalin for ADHD for 6 years- 20-60mg a day, and 5mg valium a day for anxiety and treatment of meniere's disease for about 1 year now. I have read that both of these drugs can cause depression, especially in long term use, and wanted to know if anyone has had experience with serious depression as a side effect of one or both drugs with extended use.
My depression is starting to seriously affect my daily life and relationships. I am scared and want to try and ween myself off one or both medications but worried about the adjustment period with my hectic schedule. I definitely do not want to add anymore medications such as an antidepressant. I ordered some SAM-e and st johns wart supplements today and am hopeful they may help in natural treatment.
Any advice would be appreciated.