Posted by Check on August 15, 2006, at 16:18:35
In reply to Scared and alone, posted by Judy1962 on August 7, 2006, at 21:45:34
> Hi, I am been on 200mg of Effexor for about 2 months now...in total been on it for about a year. I am getting worried because it seems that when I increase the dose I feel great for about 3-4 weeks but then those terrible thoughts come back.
>
> Has anyone else had that experience? I am scared and wonder if I will ever feel good again.During my journey through treatment-resistant atypical depression I have come to the conclusion that antidepressants work primarily by chemically duping the brain into believing that one is interacting with his/her environment in a meaningful and fulfilling way. For example (admittedly simplistic), if one wins the lottery, the brain recognizes this as a great thing and consequently increases the firing rates of dopaminergic neurons (among other things) and they feel energized and happy. The same effect can be temporarily attained with dopaminergics such as methamphetamine. My point: I think that some of us have brains that rapidly figureout (please excuse the personification) that they are being duped and not actually experiencing a fulfilling interaction with their environment. If such is the case, one must find a way to interact with their environment in a more meaningful way (eg finding a more exciting job, making new friends, etc.) Don't get me wrong, antidepressants work miracles for many, but for lasting improvement, lifestyle changes are often needed. In any event, hang in there, look into other drugs, and don't lose sight of the fact that you will be able to feel good again, its just the chemicals in your brain that make you feel like there is little hope.
For an interesting article check out:
http://www.zionet.co.il/v_rotenberg/sac.htmlGood luck,
Check
poster:Check
thread:675565
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060810/msgs/676759.html