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I have an 18 year old teenage boy who has been suffering from depression and severe anxiety and panic attacks for 4 years now. He cant function and lead a normal life. Hes been checked out by his medical doctor. Had blood work done etc..nothing is wrong physically. I have been taking him to a psychologist for 2 years. Hes tried 3 different depression medications. The last one was zoloft 25mg. which made him shake uncontrollably, his heart pound (i could feel how hard when I put my hand on his chest) and within the first half hour after taking it he laughed for 5 minutes 3x for no reason. Weird laughing, weird behavior. 2 years ago the psychologist wanted to out him on diazapam (valium) for his anxiety. I believe those kinds of drugs lead to severe addiction and death. About 6 months ago he started trying cbd oil which works amazing for the anxiety. But it only lasts short term. I dont know what to do. All the physcioligists do is prescribe pills. They cant seem to find the right medication. Meanwhile he suffers. Hes frightened of trying new medications because he sensitive to medication which makes things even worse. Hes going to counseling once a week which really isnt helping. As a mom I feel so helpless. Does anyone have any suggestions of coping methods that worked for you? We cant figure out where this depression and anxiety is coming from. No major changes in life. ( hes been drug tested so we know its not from illegal drug use, plus he is home all the time because the depression, anxiety and panic attacks stop him from leading a normal life and hes always been a really good boy). Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.
Replies to "I have an 18 year old teenage boy who has been suffering from depression and severe..."
@anitamarie. I have suffered from severe anxiety and depression for more than 25 years. If you wish to know the details of my illness please click on my name. I am not a doctor but I believe your son requires treatment with medications; psychotherapy alone will not be enough. Please consult a good psychiatrist who can find the right drug for him. Some trial and error may be required. Has he tried Citalopram? It has very few side effects. If it works for him it would be great. Also, please do not have any prejudices against medication; it may be necessary in many cases. And please don't be in a hurry to stop his medication if his condition improves. Depression and anxiety are chronic illnesses which may require lifelong treatment, just like other chronic illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Because of his young age, his illness is probably chronic. I hope this is helpful. May God bless him.
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@anitamarie- Hi anitamarie
We have been there with our Grandson. I would suggest you have gene testing done as it helps identify what meds are right or wrong for him. In the case of our Grandson it turned out that the medication he was already on was the right one for him and per his doctor the dose was good too. Also his parents bought a light box for him as well. He is progressing to the point that he has been able to start slowly back to university, work in the summer, volunteer in the winter and also has his first girlfriend. I forgot to mention he has also taken Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which he thinks was helpful.
Hope these ideas may be useful.
Best wishes
Ainsleigh