Are you familiar with Cymbalta?

I've been on 60mg for 10 years, and recently had it bumped up to 120mg. I'm more depressed than ever now, and all I can think about is suicide. Can an increased dosage have that effect? Has anyone here had anything like this happen?

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Mamapolo2016 · F

1. Talk to your doctor ASAP.

2. Here's an article that says maybe yes to your question.

https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/news-and-analysis/news/antidepressants-associated-with-increased-risk-of-suicidal-thoughts-in-healthy-adults/20201834.article?firstPass=false

3. I am sorry to hear this and hope you rectify this soon. In the meantime, hang in with all you've got. You are valuable.

Dragonfly · 36-40, M

@Mamapolo2016 I wish I had never been put on the meds.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@Dragonfly Depending on the doctor, antidepressants are the go-to solution.

Maybe you need to talk to a new doctor. I know that's a dreadful prospect, but there are combination therapies that might serve your needs much better.

Dragonfly · 36-40, M

@Mamapolo2016 Well, she is my new doctor. That was my first visit with her, which makes it even more shocking to think of it.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@Dragonfly In my view, how it works:

We feel bad, so we go to a doctor to feel better. Many people feel better faster from pills, and doctors WANT us to feel better and they want a reputation for MAKING us feel better. so they prescribe.

Maybe you need a different pill or a combination of pills, talk therapy, massage, acupuncture - whatever. But if the only option offered is pills - and they make you feel worse ... you're a smart man.

MellyMel is so right - don't stop taking them without discussing it.

Dragonfly · 36-40, M

@Mamapolo2016 At this new clinic, it's more affordable, and they did offer me therapy. I've been seeing a counselor, and I'm seeing a psychiatrist next month. I have a background in psychology, so I know what seeing a psychiatrist leads to... more medication. The medication definitely helped for about 9 years. This past year, however, has been a nightmare. I believe my problem was initially a chemical issue. The meds helped, and this issue runs in the family. Lately, there has been a load of environmental problems added to the mix. I've always felt like there is more than just depression and anxiety going on, but I'm not sure what.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@Dragonfly It's really hard to sort it out. There's a really-not-funny joke about a woman who went to a psychiatrist because her four kids were driving her crazy. He prescribed. The next month he asked how the kids were. She said, "What kids?"

The point is, if it's not strictly a chemical issue, drugging it is not the total solution. In my case, I stayed in an insane situation for years longer than I should have. "What kids?"

Dragonfly · 36-40, M

@Mamapolo2016 I truly hope I can find some peace soon. It's starting to affect my job.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@Dragonfly Still more stress. Just for the immediate future - do something positive. Go out for pizza with your son - or a cheerful movie - or make popcorn and talk.

Breathe.

Understand that nothing has to be decided tonight.

There's time for healing. It just doesn't happen as fast as we wish.

Dragonfly · 36-40, M

@Mamapolo2016 I think I'll take my son back to the park. Fresh air would be nice.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@Dragonfly Yes it would. Stop and take some food. Have a picnic. Toss a ball around.