I live in Thailand so I cannot help directly - what I can say is that information gained from the Mayo Clinic website helped me understand my clinical
Depression symptoms and from there I got help to find A Mayo Clinic experienced local
Neurologist - it changed my life and got me off most
Medication only keeping low dose Ativan with me in case of anxiety attac. - best wishes from michael in Bangkok

@mattie

I'm a Volunteer Mentor with Mayo Connect. I'm sorry to hear that you've been suffering with depression most of your life and that you have such debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. I too had depression for most of my life, but was dead set against medication to help it. I went through years of talk therapy and counseling, which I don't regret, it just didn't stop my anxiety, panic attacks, and depression (at times). My panic attacks had gotten so bad that I was taking Lorazepam more often. I formerly only took it when I needed to take an airplane trip. Without the Lorazepam, I couldn't get on the plane, and even then, I was so anxious I was completely exhausted when I arrived at my destination.

Finally, at the age of 63, I asked my PCP if he could give me an antidepressant. He prescribed Celexa, and I titrated from 20 mg. to 40 mg. over 6 months. I felt so wonderful that I was amazed. I realized that I had needed an antidepressant for many years. I am still taking the generic version which is Citalopram. The most amazing thing to me is that my panic attacks have disappeared for the most part. While I was withdrawing from Tramadol, I did have a few panic attacks, but that's been it. I can fly in airplanes now with absolutely no anxiety or fear. I can't tell you how much freedom just knowing that has given me. My husband and I just had our second honeymoon in French Polynesia, an 8 hr plane trip that I couldn't have done before.

It's possible that my imbalanced brain chemistry has been corrected by the medication, and that may work for you as well. You should ask your doctor to test you for DNA compatability with any antidepressant he/she wants you to take. That way, you will find the one that will work for you right away. I will say that based on the difficulties people in the Mayo Connect community have posted, I wouldn't take Effexor. My recommendation is based only on the many, many complaints. I hope you find a good counselor/therapist and a much better psychiatrist.

Gail
Volunteer Mentor

@mattie and @gailb, we are in such good company.  Hi! I am a volunteer  mentor here with Mayo Clinic Connect.   I remember having depression as far back as early childhood. I had panic attacks so bad there were many times I would stay in the car and not get out.  My mother would go get the groceries,  while I would sit there, terrified every time someone would walk up to the car.  I was afraid  and embarrassed  to tell anyone how I felt.  It wasn't until last year that I finally opened up  with my PCP about my level of anxiety.  He recommended  a low dose of an anti -anxiety  medication.  It has helped tremendously.   Same with antidepressants.   I take a low, almost "maintenance dose" which helps me with that dark condition which can bring you to your knees.  I don't  just depend on medication.  I practice mindfulness, stay busy, eliminate negative self-talk, and practice self care.  I am so glad you are here.  We are better together.Mamacita (Jane)

I have had anxiety,panic attacks, for years n i didnt know what they were until a feww yrs ago its good to keep busy i work as a cna n a medical asstiance i luv my work n i luv my children i wouldnt make it without them.

Hi, good morning to you! My name is Jane, and I am a new volunteer mentor here with Mayo Clinic Connect. Much has been written about the causes of panic attacts, and that is worthwhile. But working on managing those same attacks can start right away, whatever the cause. Stress can be reduced, and other things that are health inducing can take their place. Working in a field we love, being grateful, and taking the time for self care has helped me tremendously. I like writing positive affirmations, playing music that inspires me, and helping other people. One of my phrases is "I am enough, just the way I am." I also tell myself that it is not a race, it is a journey. I t is my story, and I can change the storyline anytime I want. It's up to me. I can do all this because I am not alone. I am in good company here. Peace, out. Mamacita

@mamasitalucita great philosophies.
JK