Could I be ______ and not know it???

I, like Joanne, have a long history of major depression. One of the red flags the docs always look for is if you answer yes that you don't do the things you used to enjoy. This is called anedonia...loss of interest in pleasurable things. My pcp will come in the exam room and say "so what are you reading Paula?". That's the only clue she needs. Often I don't even realize that I am slipping into that darned black hole that Joanne mentions. Anyway, there is situational depression...like when a loved one dies. This will resolve without antidepressants because there is no change in your brain chemicals (ie seratonin) just a sad mood. But depression occurs when your brain chemicals are out of order. The antidepressants help to restore order. Your mood lifts...could be right away or after a month or so. If I were you, I would discuss this with your pcp and take a trial of whatever antidepressant he would recommend for you. You might feel a sudden lifting of your mood. Oh and your pcp will not think you are "nuts" because you are not sure. You haven't had a history of depression and feeling unsure is perfectly NORMAL. Best wishes to you. Please keep us inform about your decision. Hope you have a restful night. Paula

Paula, Thank you for the reassurance that my PCP will not think I'm "nuts". Several years ago, I took an antidepressant but it was a temporary thing.. problems with the kids and I needed help to get over the hump. At that time, I knew the source of my stress/anxiety/depression, but as a parent, I could not run away. I'll call my PCP in the morning. Now does anyone want to email me tomorrow to remind me?

I think it is tomorrow morning--time to call the doc. Just a little reminder.

Thanks, I called and have an appointment Thursday morning.

I am happy to see you posting tonight! I am sorry you are going through a rough situation. I KNOW things will be better soon. Hang in there. I sometimes wonder if I am depressed. Just know that I am sending hugs and kisses. Hugs and love, Tammy

Hugs and kisses from you are always well received.

Hi Gina. I don't know if you are depressed, but I wouldn't be worried about what your pcp is thinking about you either. They will treat you with what they think you need. Depression SUCKS!!...There is no nice way to say it. I have been on antidepressants since 1991 and some days they work for me and some days they don't. I do know that if I miss a few days of meds I definitely know it and get back on them. I just wanted to wish you the very best of luck with your situation and am hoping you feel better soon...Cap'n K-Man

I know he wont think I'm nuts, it was just the wording of my question as to how to approach the topic with him. I've known him for many years, even outside the office, he probably knows me as well as anyone knows me. He'll know right away if something is bothering me. In fact, he asked me not long ago if something was wrong.. he said that I dont "look" right. I feel like a piece of tarnished silverware. I'm still useful and needed but I've lost my luster and shine.

Hi again...I know you will "get there"...it just may take some time. With my meds, it has taken quite a bit of tweaking to get it mostly right. I sure hope you feel better soon because feeling that way isn't any fun at all. I have been dealing with my own set of the blues lately and our move coming up has only maken it worse. I am excited, but with the move comes the unknown and a bunch of other "baggage" that I didn't want to deal with. Keep your chin up and get to feeling better soon...Cap'n K-Man

If I told you about all my "baggage" you'd probably say that I need a prozac the size of a bowling ball ... but it's true. In the past three years, all three of my daughters got married (one got married last month). I've had four surgeries (two major and two out patient). I've had three grandchildren (four next month), the oldest grandchild is two. Two of my daughters live in other states. One son in law is being deployed. I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. I'm not whinning or complaining about the above, it's just part of growing up and growing older.. I love my life, I love my job.. I'm NOT employed and NOT looking, and I love having grandkids.. but maybe everything so close together is too much.