Posted by KevinM on October 8, 2004, at 8:00:04
In reply to Re: Help with anxiety/benzos, posted by utopizen on October 7, 2004, at 21:59:55
> Taking a benzo other than Klonopin because of depression as a side-effect really needs to be re-thought. Stop and examine what's REALLY agitating things. Sure, Klonopin can lead to depression, but let's not kid ourselves: there's people who never get depressed while on Klonopin for years, and no one knows why.
>
> You may simply be more prone to experiencing depression, especially given that you already have a mental illness. The Klonopin may simply be agitating existing factors in your life. Maybe your support system or life events are stressing you out, maybe you lack a mate at the time, I have no clue. But it's very important to consider all these things, and take them seriously. CBT is very important too. There's no guarantee simply removing Klonopin will remove your depression, and trying to focus all of your energy on benzo alternatives might be interfering with your other options.
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> Talk to your doc/therapist, and take one thing at a time. But most importantly, chill- you're smart, and are sure to get to the matter at some point.Yes, I'm prone to depression. Everything I have read regarding Klonopin as it relates to making one more depressed indicates this may be a factor. I know there is no magic bullet. I have taken many medications (including Nardil) as well as CBT. I have SP- Klonopin has been something I have taken situationally before. Recently, I thought taking Klonopin on a regular basis would be worth a trial. It worked *very* well until the depression started. I'm not sure in the long term it would have made as much of a difference. Experience has told me the effect any medication can make may only be temporary. But even if this is the case, hopefully I can gain something- even if it is just insight during that period of time.
While I gather any benzo can cause depression, I'm just seeing if anyone has an opinion or experience as to if there may be a better alternative to Klonopin. Perhaps there no clear cut answer.
I understand what your saying :) Thanks for writing.
poster:KevinM
thread:399779
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041007/msgs/400294.html