Quote:
Originally Posted by kittygilchrist
Major D happens to a lot of us. Often preceded by stressful life events, especially those we can't control.
In the same way an m.d. uses criteria for making a diagnosis, we can use this checklist of behavior and mood. There is comfort in knowing that we all do and feel about the same when our brain chemistry is out of kilter.
Major Depressive Episode Symptoms | Psych Central site has interactive quiz too.
I worked in social work and mental health for years and saw many magical turnarounds in people who felt like they were in the bottom of a black barrel and would never enjoy life again. My favorite turnaround was my own, following divorce.
Antidepressants are misunderstood as being feel good chemicals. Not so; their main thrust is to inhibit the brain from excessive reabsorption of serotonin, which is normally present in the tissues. |
You are right Kitty. In the sixties and seventies many people would brag about taking "nerve pills". Often for just having a hectic day.
Now we know that many things can trigger a change in the normally occurring levels of serotonin in our brain. Science can restore that level to normal. If you ask a lot of well functioning and normal souls they will tell you that they have been prescribed medicine that helped them.
Many people have problems with serotonin just simply because we are growing older.
That does not take away from the other kinds of help available, such as warmth and friendship and support from folks who care.
We may need, or be better for, both.