Prozac Nation
February 28th, 2008I’ve held a largely internal debate whether or not to talk about this publicly. However, given the responses to my posts regarding living with depression and with the idea of being more open, I’m going to share.
Given the amount of stresses that we’ve endured since 2004, I thought it might be helpful to look at a brief presentation:
click image to launch presentation
The decision was not made lightly and the professionals don’t think I’m chronically depressed. I started talking 20mg of Prozac a day after we returned from San Diego. o
Tags: depression, presentation, prozac
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February 28th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Love the presentation. Can you please come by and show my students good presentation format? (Kidding. They would not listen.)
Thank you for sharing this. I’ve been thinking seriously about having “the talk” with my doc…I am nowhere near as bad as I used to be about 15 years ago, but the stress is really taking its toll and I think the Armstrong bravery on both fronts has made me seriously reassess whether I need to get back on a little ’something’. Besides bourbon.
February 28th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
You go. Do what you need to do to make your life livable. Prozac didn’t work for me, but Effexor does and I am quite grateful.
I’m fairly new to your site, but have been reading Dooce.com for a while. I love your photographs and thought of you (not in a creepy way) when I passed a semi with oil drums on the back that appeared to be partially covered in gold leaf. (Maybe it was paint; I don’t know.) The sun was hitting them just so and it made me think of a lot of the photographs you’ve recently posted with the golds and rust, etc. Would’ve been nice to have a camera with me … and a 1/4 of the talent you and Heather possess for photography.
Be well,
Max
February 28th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Someone close to me took antidepressants during/after a stressful time. He took them for about 3 months and it made such a huge (wonderful!) difference. He returned to the person that was great and he tapered off and hasn’t used any in the three years since. I didn’t feel good about it at first, but it was the absolutely the right move. I hope it helps you be you.
February 28th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Several years ago I got caught in a vortex and ended up circling the drain. Six months of therapy did exactly nothing, until I “gave up” and went for the Prozac (generic). I needed the kick in the head to learn how to stay below the baseline reliably again, and now have been off anti-depressants successfully for six years. I’m proud of that, but I’m prouder of having “given up” and taken them in the first place. Best thing I’ve ever done.
Good luck, and see you on the other side!
February 28th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
I think I started about the same time you did … it used to be that I lived with chronic depression but now my doctor believes that it’s “just” Seasonal Affective Disorder. I’ve been spending some extra time in the sun lately (it’s going to cause Spring Fever here, really soon) and that may be helping. You might also look at getting on a vitamin D supplement if you’re not getting sunshine! Good for you for getting on the meds though … I hate taking meds to “be me,” but I’m really NOT me when I’m off of them!
February 28th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Jon, good luck. I hope that Prozac helps. It’s really clear that you and Heather have had to deal with a lot.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
There are worse things in life than taking an antidepressant. Of course, those are usually the reasons for taking an antidepressant. I did a stint of Lexapro for a while. Aside from the suicidal thoughts, it did pretty well. Without it, I would have been wrapped up in a blanket in the corner of my closet. Sometimes if your world comes crashing down on you, you need some help to crawl out.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Jon,
I can’t help noticing that in the beginning of your post and your entire presentation your describe your level of stress, and in the conclusion of your post ’stress’ has become ‘depression’ (hence Prozac). Could you elaborate on this, i.e. the transition from a diagnostic of stress to one of depression (be it mild)?
February 28th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
Hey Jon - it sounds (and looks) as though it’s “situational depression”. I had it when my dad died, I took Zoloft for about 6 months, and I was fine.
You’ve been through a hell of a lot the last few years, and it’s no wonder you need this. Better Living Through Chemicals, I call it.
Take care, and be well.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
Good for you for taking care of yourself and your happiness. Whether you take meds for 6 months or 6 years, here’s to feeling better.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
@Philippe (UK), I’m implying that all the stress of the past few years has lead to a depression. It’s very common for spouses of chronically depressed to have bouts of depression, but I think in this case, it’s just stress-related depression. I could be wrong.
So far, the Prozac is helping a great deal.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Just to add to the discussion and play devil’s advocate - long time reader, never commented before.
I have several family members who have has success on Anti -depressants. I have a father in law that would not be alive or with his family if it weren’t for anti-depressants.
I’m curious because I dont have the vernacular to relate, I guess. What is the missing piece of this equation for you-
Life’s challenges (sickness, babies, moving, job stress, pets)+ _____ = Depression?
How does one draw the line between life being hard and needing prozac - just trying to get more in your head.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Why is George! the source of so much stress?
It’s the exclamation point, isn’t it? George sans exclamation point is so less stressful.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
(Also, I hope you start feeling like yourself again soon!)
February 28th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Have always admired your honest writing about depression. I went through a rough situational bout of it a couple of years ago and agonized over the decision to go on antidepressants, but I did and also did talk therapy (which I commend you for recommending in other posts) and I went off them after a year and a bit. Must say I kind of miss them (Effexor XR did the trick for me), but if they didn’t save my life, they at least made it better and got me back on track. I was able to deal with sressful situations with much less anxiety. Glad to hear you are feeling a bit better … all the best.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
I’m going to continue on with what Stacy said……..life’s challenges. Yes, we have all had them. Who’s life is perfect? And what expectations are you trying to live up to? We could all go on and on about how tough our life has been. Some of us have actually starved because we had to feed our kids first or have been abused by husbands. Alanon saved my life, but me learning to take responsibility for my actions and my life. What a huge difference when you don’t involve the rest of the world in your problems. There is a great site http://www.walkingtheblackdog.com which is a man who is dealing with depression. There is also the Happiness Project. Meds do sometimes clear the synapses which occur or not occur in the brain leading to clear or not clear sense of self and dealing with life. But Jon, I bet if you listen to your body and relate your stress to how you were taught and how you dealt with it as your were growing up, I bet you wil get a lot of answers. Also get “Conscious Living”. There will be answers and answer and more answers for you. I’m not saying not to take meds, but we are all screwed up for a reason and our abilities to handle life come from how we were programmed. The meds just help clear the fog in order for use to navigate the ship a little better into the harbor. Having a sense of humor and being able to not take yourself so seriously really helps too.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
you rock. i really admire your ability and courage to be so forthright.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
I went through a really horrible divorce a few years ago. Our son was 5 years old when his Dad and I split. My priority was to keep things as steady as possible for our son during this huge change. I was successful in the ‘keeping things steady’ department for the first couple of years… then a friend and his 17 month old daughter were killed in a car accident, I went through a tough break-up and realized that without help (medicinal -I was already seeing a therapist) I was not going to be able to continue to keep things steady any longer. I was on prozac for about six months then was able to stop (I’ve been off of it for about year now). I sometimes wonder if I would have been slower to help myself if I didn’t have my son to consider.
Good for you for looking out for yourself and in turn your family…
February 28th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I love the presentation and am delighted that you have hit upon something that is helping. Prozac (coincidentally) helped me as well. I didn’t seek treatment because I wanted to alter my personality or become someone else; I just wanted to get back to being my normal self.
Seriously, I am delighted for you and hope things continue to improve.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Thanks for the explanation Jon.
As a medicinal chemist I am always happy to hear that drugs do work
PS: I left Salt Lake City 6 years ago after spending 3 years there, so please keep posting photos of Utah, be it under feet of snow or blistering sun, it brings back fond memories.
PPS: Heather’s Daily Chuck are no less cracking.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
LOL and good for you! Hope it brings you some peace.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Good for you, Jon. Sometimes in life we need a life jacket to hold us up and there’s nothing wrong with doing what you need to do.
Just stay on top of how you feel and if things change for the better than don’t be afraid to have your doctor ween you back off again.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
I am also glad you are so courageous as to write about this topic and share with all of us. I will someday be a physician and am always looking for other’s perspectives on what makes life difficult. So thank you, and hope you have many good days ahead.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Love it! Reminds me of my life.
February 28th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Just take vitamins! haha, sorry, couldn’t resist. Seriously may the prozac work!
February 28th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Hope all turns upwards. You sure have a lovely family and the pictures of the pups always make me smile.
I actually ended up getting up the courage to talk to a therapist and, in turn, a psychiatrist partly due to Heather’s posting about how medication worked for her. I thought it was honest and brave and it more than hit a nerve.
Thanks for continuing the good work Armstrongs!
February 28th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
I went through an awful, horrible, heinous breakup of a long-term relationship a few years ago and ended up hospitalized. They put me on 10mg of Lexapro (tiny dose) for a year, I went off it, and I’ve been drug-free for six months. It REALLY helped. And I am not a chronic depressive either. But I needed it for that time in my life, and I’m damned glad it was there.
February 28th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
For some reason, I was thinking of you and your family the other day and as an avid and long-time reader, I couldn’t believe how you were handling the stress of what seemed like constant illness and all the random crap that you’ve been through. Not light stuff, indeed. I think you made the right and necessary decision in taking Prozac. My diagnosis is long-term–probably life-long–but is definitely intensified by my current situation and stresses. I wouldn’t be alive right now if I didn’t take my medications. You know that you are not alone….and hopefully the meds will help you get above water so you can actually breathe your way through a better year. Best of luck!
February 28th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
Love the analysis of the stresses.. What was the mystery illness you had - any diagnosis..
I think the other solution beyond pharmaceutics is MOVING - to Austin.. you’d love it here.
AAP
February 28th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
All the best and thanks for your continued honesty. I look forward to visiting your site daily.
February 28th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
You shouldn’t have to second guess honesty. A body’s gotta do what it must to get through the day, the week, the month, the year. And as long as it isn’t hurting you, your family, or anyone else, what’s the problem?
February 28th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Just went off Effexor and back on Prozac. Husband prefers Effexor the Prozac didn’t work for him. Although years ago I was on 20mg for a year before they increased my dose and it started work. Good luck! It’s rare you read about men struggling with depression.
I know when my husband and I both started working from home a few years ago there was a sort of “identity” crisis that caused depression.
Oh, just one more thing…the generic Prozac didn’t work for me and it caused me great stomach distress. I don’t know why, binders, fillers, who knows … who cares … anyway I switched back to the name brand (a hundred times more expensive and we have no insurance - sanity ain’t cheap) and I haven’t had a problem.
February 28th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Again - kudos to you for being open and honest about your life…all of your life (well, maybe not all, but quite a damn bit of it).
I made the decision just this last week to just be open about being on an anti-depressant, being diagnosed with depression, and when folks ask about the factors that led up to it, telling them about it.
The negative stigma will never go away unless individuals who are looked upon as smart, together, etc, sometime say out loud “yep - I needed help - I asked for help - I got help.”
February 28th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
It takes a strong person to admit any (so called) weakness or illness. Good for you for being strong and trying anything to be be the best man, father, and husband you can be. And the courage to tell the world just in case your struggle might help even one person? That is just awe inspiring. THANKS!!
February 28th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
This is very nerdy, but I like it. Good luck and glad to hear you are
already feeling better. I take lexapro and klonopin myself, and they
are a god send.
February 28th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
I was on Prozac for a month hoping it would help my migraine headaches. It didn’t help them at all, but I soooo did not care anymore. I could totally see how this drug (and many like it) can be a useful tool.
Life is stressful and at times overwhelming, why suffer?
Good for you. Being mentally healthy is very important.
February 28th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Kudos to you for sharing this and for having the guts to try to make it better. My husband took Lexapro for about 3 months to help get him through chemo/radiation treatment for cancer. He wasn’t clinically depressed, but the doc (based on input from me) thought he needed a little help to see the sun again. He’s off it now. He was terrified he’d be a lifer. Even if he ended up needing it long-term, he knows it would be worth it to have the real him back again. We have 2 kids (ages 7 and 1) and they needed daddy to get his big butt out of bed. Not to be perfect, just to get back in the game a little. Your presentation shows how truly sucky the last few years have been for your family. Yes, the suckiness is tempered with great (but stressful) things as well, but things are still stressful. Best of luck.
February 28th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Playing the devil’s advocate, some of this stress/depression is self-inflicted - good god, why would you get another dog?
February 28th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
@T - Note that depression can affect how one perceives events. Looking
through Jon’s presentation, I found it interesting that some events that most people would consider major stressors did not rank that high for him (for ex., the birth of a child). However, as the timeline progresses, I think it shows a high stress reaction to events that someone else might not consider so stressful (for ex., selling a house or getting a new dog).
February 28th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
I can’t believe you need Prozac when you have graph bars!!!!
Now, seriously, good for you, and hope all the Winters end soon.
February 28th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Welcome to the club, Jon. The meds help. They really do.
February 28th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Have a headache? Take an Excedrin.
Can’t dig yourself out of a depression? Take an anti-depressent.
I’m not being flippant. Sometimes a pill helps. You can’t think about diet changes during a migraine and you can’t think about lifestyle changes during a depression.
Glad to hear you’re doing better.
February 28th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Blurb-
Do you believe in the physical manifestation of depression? When someone is fine otherwise– but has chest pain and tooth aches and side aches– and gets checked out only to find out there is nothing physically wrong? Going through this now — I think. I can’t believe that my brain is wired this way. It wasn’t always. Just interested in what you think.
Good for you– helping yourself is the coolest thing. Glad you are feeling better!
February 28th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
good luck you
i took them for a particularly stressful time (under therapist’s suggestions) in my life and now am happily off them (my circumstances changed)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/7268496.stm
February 28th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Thanks for sharing - People need to understand that sometimes life is harder than Ozzie and Harriet made it out to be. Good luck!
February 28th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Jon:
And the results?
February 28th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
PFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF! Whatever.
February 28th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
Good luck with the meds. The right combo has really helped Tiffany.
My favorite part of the presentation? When you busted George’s balls! By the way, you should see his ass. He’s lost half of it!
February 28th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
I too, am part of the Prozac nation. Life got so much better after only a few days on that lovely little pill. Colors got brighter, I slept better, and all of a sudden I was the person I used to be, if you know what I mean? Good luck to you, and Heather and Leta. Life your life, dude, and don’t let anyone tell you what’s best for you but your own head and heart.
February 28th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Hi Jon,
I hope the Prozac works out for you - have you noticed any difference yet? I did after a while - that it just didn’t get to me as much.
It’s funny, because people sans depression would look at things like A New Dog! and Moving House! as not that bad….but when you’re battling to enjoy life as it is, any break to the routine is hard…but those new bits is what makes life worth living….best of luck!
February 28th, 2008 at 7:33 pm
Good for you for taking care of yourself and your family (who will benefit as much as you do from the Prozac)! It’s obvious that you don’t have any of the hang-ups or attach any stigma to seeking help when you need it. However, it’s still really hard to take that first step. Hope the Prozac works for you. I’m more of a Lexapro gal myself, but hey, chemistry.
February 28th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
your openness means more, and helps more, than you can know.
February 28th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Welcome to the dark (or is it light?) side, honey. I had the inner battle four years ago, when I was pregnant with #2. I just couldn’t do it on my own. I thought I was weak. I thought I was caving. I was actually pulling my head out of my butt. I still struggle. I think I’m feeling better, forget to take my meds and tank. Then I remember (again and again) that it’s okay to ask for and accept help. I hope your stress levels level out soon.
February 28th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
Yay! Seriously, virtual friend, better living through chemistry. I’ve been on zoloft for a few years, and it helped me get through near fatal sleep apnea, two masters degrees, and caring for elderly parents (sequentially, not consecutively) for 13 years now.
It’s a sign of the times. There’s no need to suffer, especially when the bit of help will make your organs and psyche last longer, your marriage survive, and your daughter be surrounded in love and calm parenting (relatively speaking).
The dogs are on their own–they relieve stress and give it, both in spades, I note.
February 28th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
P.S. I agree with what Sarah (no. 5) says about the sun. It makes a huge difference with me and S.A.D. Cheers!
February 28th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
I don’t really get the presentation. solo parenting? you mean for a few days here and there? selling a house 10x more stressful than a child not walking? stress = depression? anyway, 20mg is such a small dose. hope it helps
February 28th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
Cute. Roll with it, life is better than the alternative.
February 28th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
P.S. have you tried St. John’s wort?
February 28th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Best of luck to you, sir. I don’t know if I’d be here w/o my meds. Wellbutrin works best for me, but we’re all different.
I’m glad the Prozac is helping you. And thanks for doing your blog.
February 28th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
I took Prozac for a while. It gave me vertigo and wouldn’t let me sleep, so I ended up taking Zyprexa at night.
Eventually I left all that behind and found a new lover: Valium. Wonderful stuff. Keeps my rage and intolerance in check, and yet no medicine-head or any other side effects. Also, people actually like me now.
Good luck. You deserve a break, you’re a good guy.
February 28th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Not to make light of your situation, but I loved the presentation
On a serious note, reading about Heather’s struggles with depression, and now reading about yours, has been a tremendous help to me. I have dealt with depression, anxiety and (slightly) obsessive-compulsive tendancies my whole life; before I was ever aware of what any of that was.
I’ve been on meds off & on for the past several years, and last August, I went off Zoloft when I became pregnant. For the first month, things were okay, and then I felt myself slipping away. Slipping away into a very dark place. I spent the next several months depressed with increasing thoughts of hurting myself. I am incredibly lucky that I didn’t lose that teensy bit of logic left in my brain that stopped me from acting on it. Some days, reading Heather’s stories were the only thing that kept me going ~ knowing that things WILL GET BETTER. Reading your post of what it’s like to live with a depressed spouse made me wish my husband was as understanding as you. He was as understanding as I think he could be, but some days, it wasn’t enough.
Those months were hard not only for me, but for my husband, my family, and my poor dog. My husband, I hoped, would see that all the craziness wasn’t directed at him. But my dog, he had no idea. He heard the screaming, the yelling, saw me throwing things, and he would curl up in a ball with his back to the living room and his ears pushed back in fear. It was so hard to see how my behavior was affecting everyone around me, but it was hardest to see my dog so helpless & thinking he had done something wrong.
I would scream at my husband to just leave me, that I wasn’t fit to be a wife or a mother. Thank God he kept telling me he wasn’t going anywhere.
I wondered every day why life was so much harder for me than it ought to be; why I couldn’t just “get over it” and be happy. I have since made peace with the fact that for some people, it is out of their control. And that’s why there are chemists and pharmaceutical companies.
I finally decided that I couldn’t continue to live that way, and honestly, I wasn’t sure I’d make it through the remainder of my pregnancy. I had known in my heart that what I was going through was far worse on my baby than any potential harm the Zoloft would do to her, but I still felt like a failure at life.
I cried in my doctor’s office, still unsure of my decision. My doctor, who had suggested numerous times I go back on meds, convinced me that at 26 weeks, my baby would be just fine.
Within a few days, I felt like me again, and damn, it felt good to laugh. It’s been a few weeks now, and I haven’t once regretted my decision. Feeling good & being able to cope with daily life can’t possibly be wrong.
Jon, good for you for recognizing we can’t always do it on our own. You do what you need to do ~ for your health, and for the health of your family. You & Heather are lucky to have each other, and I appreciate all of your talents & your ability to be honest with the world. Best of luck to you ~
February 28th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
I read you through Heather and I have to say that after all you guys have been through this doesn’t surprise me one bit. You do what you have to do and I am glad to know they don’t think it is permanant.
Since I can’t walk away without nagging just a bit….. PLEASE use caution if you drink. Found out the hard way with my sister that Prozac and alcohol is a bad mix for some people. E-mail me and I will point you to my sister’s journey if you want to know more.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
February 28th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Thanks for your honesty.
February 28th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
I just read through everyone’s comments, and feel like yelling at those who suggested that your stress wasn’t worthy of you being on meds. Yes, we all have stress, but some brains are wired to handle it better than others. Period. Who are they to judge?
Again, I say good for you, Jon. I sincerely hope you feel better. Just know that your honesty helps the rest of us.
I also re-read my post….sorry for the long rambling. I have found that in sharing my experiences, the more I find I’m not alone. I hope you now you’re not alone in this, either.
February 29th, 2008 at 12:35 am
I am going to give your permalink to my class so they can see what presentation media should look like! And wow, was that ever honest. Awesome job!!!
February 29th, 2008 at 1:02 am
prozac sounds good to me.
but i vote also for a day of boarding next time i’m in SLC.
February 29th, 2008 at 1:27 am
Your post — and Heather’s — was part of what helped me go to a psychiatrist in January. I was convinced that I should have been “tough enough” to ride out the stress in my life, even when it was clear to everyone that I was well beyond stressed out and in a downward spiral. I felt the same as a lot of people here, feeling weak or out of control because I needed the drugs. But you know, I was more out of control when my depression and anxiety kept me from getting out of bed until noon, or made me think I was actually going to destroy my life. Lexapro and good therapy have saved me; so has taking time to heal, even though I’m not used to being good to myself. You were a big part of getting me to take those first steps. Be kind to yourself for me, and thank you for helping me realize that sometimes the meds are exactly what we need to become ourselves again.
February 29th, 2008 at 2:26 am
Been there. Am there.
At least there’s this:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/7268496.stm
February 29th, 2008 at 3:55 am
It’s amazing how you put up something so honest and it brings out so many comments. Obviously, it’s important that we bring the topic out of whispers and instead speak about depression openly and without judgment. You’re doing a really good and important thing.
Also? Just my opinion but…between the Prozac, the onset of spring and your sense of humor, I think you’ll be okay.
February 29th, 2008 at 7:29 am
Hey, good for you. I took Prozac and i felt like a million bucks! One warning though, it really played havoc with my stomach. I was not able to eat or even smell food without getting sick. Granted, i lost 15 pounds in 3 weeks and looked like da bomb! BUT, i had to stop taking it because being human, i really needed to be able to eat. I do hope it works for you. Good luck with it.
February 29th, 2008 at 7:39 am
Better Living Through Pharmaceuticals!
You HAVE read that the placebos are just as effective? Are Tic Tacs cheaper?
Me=Zoloft, and Lexapro
February 29th, 2008 at 8:08 am
You know I am on board. I have often wondered to myself how you guys manage it all with such grace. I am also glad you all have each other, spouse, Leta, puppies, and beautiful sunsets. I think this is a really positive stress. People often miss what the spouse is going through in such situations, I know that happens in our little family.
xo
February 29th, 2008 at 8:39 am
So, are you under the red-line now? or at least under 25% stress? It is great that you are taking care of yourself, both of you ..
Hmmm.. I thought dogs were supposed to RELIEVE stress .. maybe in a year or two? I bet you appreciate Chuck alot, and has he become a snuggle-bunny yet?
February 29th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Good for you!
I have been on Prozac for years and will continue to be. I couldn’t function normally without it. Or maybe I could but who wants to take the chance?
Thanks for being so open and honest and bringing this issue to the fore front. I appreciate all that you and Heather do for this issue.
February 29th, 2008 at 9:12 am
Celexa is the magic elixr for me. Sometimes pharmaceuticals can really do the trick. When everything is out of control, it certainly makes sense to give medications a shot. Here’s to feeling better, Jon. And warm wishes to your whole family…even GEORGE!
February 29th, 2008 at 9:14 am
BTW .. Jon.. do you know if your stress plays a role in your nose-issues? I’ve often wonder that for myself. Off to see the ENT today and hoping for much relief. Please tell me he will give me some. Is yours improving?
February 29th, 2008 at 9:56 am
For the people who commented on the confusion between “clinical depression” and stress, I’d like to add my own personal insight/experience.
I’ve been through a couple of extremely stressful times in my life. The first one I went through without the use of any drugs, and it took several years for me to come out of the fog, but I finally worked through it. The result of those missed years was flunking most of my college classes, dropping out, and not graduating until I was 25. The second time, a doctor gave me Zoloft. It really helped me function, and (with therapy), I was able to get my life back in control within a matter of months, rather than years. I was never clinically diagnosed with depression.
Yes, maybe you get over all the stuff without the drugs, but it could take a long time, and in the meantime, you could lose your job, family, etc. Taking anti-depressants can help you become functional while you deal with what life hands you. I hate to liken it to having a cup of coffee when you’re tired, because it’s much more serious than that, but it’s the same idea. I wish I had had something to help me through the first time.
February 29th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Welcome to the Prozac Club.
Proud and “maintaining a theraputic level” since 2005.
February 29th, 2008 at 10:11 am
I hope you put up a follow-up presentation of your stress levels after you’ve been taking Prozac for a while. I know I had to go through a six-month round of trying different meds before I found what worked for me (Effexor and Welbutrin combo). So good luck to you! (and who knew GEORGE! was so stressful?)
February 29th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Jon, I agree that your commenters who have suggested that the stresses in your life are not worthy for medication can go suck it. We should never judge each others’ life choices but instead encourage one another when we have found something that helps. Even if that thing has a stigma attached to it. Which by the way, it should not. For those who don’t know, depressed people can’t just “snap out of it.” I’ve been there myself. It’s sometimes a chemical imbalance in the brain. If someone has diabetes, we have absolutely no problem with them taking insulin, right? So why have a problem with someone taking something to help out their brain?
And why, now that I think about it, do we even have problems with what other people are doing anyway? Shouldn’t we be worrying about ourselves? Jon did, and he’s found a solution.
February 29th, 2008 at 10:24 am
a+ on presentation.
February 29th, 2008 at 10:25 am
We are all just giant chemical factories and when something (illness, stress, environment) upsets our precarious internal chemical balance, we need to do something to re-establish that balance or life can become unbearable (and it’s hard enough when you are feeling good).
Menopause threw my internal chemicals for a loop and Prozac not only got rid of my depression, it is also helping to control the butt-kicking hot flashes. I call it my “brain vitamin”.
Good for you for not being afraid to get the help you needed and for sharing your story with us.
February 29th, 2008 at 10:34 am
You know, though, the answer could also be Obama. ; )
February 29th, 2008 at 11:06 am
I’ve not read all of the comments, but after reading your post of the 29th I’m sorry that you had jerks respond to this.
Jerks suck.
I’m not chronic either, but I’ve been on a low dose of anti-depressants ever since a whole string of stress type things happened to me, and it was the best thing that ever happened. I felt more even, and like I could deal with things.
That combined with talk therapy was able to get me over the thing that broke the camel’s back (the camel being me), and now I’m 1000% better than I was before the camel’s back broke.
I’m rooting for you.
February 29th, 2008 at 11:51 am
I can personally attest to the little (and big) stresses adding up to depression. It was explained to me that stress over time changes brain chemistry, or more precisely, how the brain uses its chemicals. The result is depression, and meds help the brain get more “in balance” again.
I salute you for taking care of yourself, that’s hard enough.
Opening your private life to scrutiny by the unwashed masses in the hopes it might help someone else is really awesome, especially since you’re already depressed.
You and Heather deserve medals for bringing mental health issues out in a way that encourages discussion, not derision.
February 29th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Your post really speaks to an analyst like me. Bar graphs rock.
Good luck with the meds. I’m glad you’ve found what helps.
February 29th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
When two of my premature triplets (!) came home from the NICU and then one went back in an emergency situation, I shut down. I threw up a lot from the stress and couldn’t take care of the one baby at home. I went on prozac and starting counseling. It helped. I called what I had “situational depression” TOO MUCH STRESS and I had no choice but to be in it. Five years later, when all three started full time school, I weaned myself off the drug. My stress had reduced to a manageable point. I’m not clinically depressed, but needed the extra help for an incredibly stressful time in my life.
Good luck and good health!
February 29th, 2008 at 6:33 pm
Jesus Loves You … *anyway*
February 29th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
Hope you start feeling better soon! Thank you for all of your honesty and sharing….HUGS
February 29th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
You guys have had a crazy few years. I think you are making a good decision for yourself and your family.
February 29th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
I hope the Prozac helps……….I’ve been taking it for about five years now, and it really helps me feel like I’m not living under such a heavy cloud ALL the time……..I’m so glad both you and Heather take such and active and HEALTHY approach to mental health……….I read both of your sites daily and enjoy them very much! Take care and hang in there…….It WILL get better!
March 1st, 2008 at 9:00 am
I resisted taking meds for years out of some confused ideas that I should just be able to will myself out of my depression. I’m glad that the medication I take helps me to be myself again, be a better mom, a better colleague at work, a better teacher. Oh, and it keeps me alive, because when I was depressed, the pain seemed so unbearable that I just wanted it to stop somehow. So good for you for getting the help you need!
March 1st, 2008 at 11:34 am
You’re wrong about Jesus, unpopular as it is to say. I’m praying for you and your family to have joy and peace this year.
March 1st, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Hi, I have been on Prozac for 3 years. I know that does not sound like a success story since I am still on it, however, it has made a huge difference in my ability to function and get out of bed to go to work. I recently got blasted a little for saying “it saved my life.” But, it has and I have tried everything else. It makes therapy bearable.
March 1st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
I’m 25 and over the last 4 years, I’ve tried just about everything there is when it comes to Anti-Depressants. I also have high anxiety, so I’m on a nice little combo-cocktail that seems to work (at least for now).
Ever since I was introduced to Dooce.com, I’ve admired Heather’s courage and strength when it comes to her disscussing her health issues. I also want give you a big hug for being her support through it all. Even the support needs help sometimes.
Thank you, to you and Heather both…for being so awesome.
March 1st, 2008 at 9:44 pm
I will always need to take Effexor because of a chemical imbalance. And I am so grateful that my doctor found something that let me enjoy living my life. I enjoy reading both you and Heather’s posts about depression and your honesty. Thank you.
March 2nd, 2008 at 11:24 am
Be well and happy. Sending good vibes your way.
March 2nd, 2008 at 6:07 pm
I am proud to be a fellow prozacperson. just switched from Effexor after 7 years. I like prozac better. people look at me and think I have a “charmed life” but it’s a skewed view. no one could no except the person in it. lots of anxiety. started with older son’s puberty, my dad dying, huge, horrible lawsuit in which husband was involved. overwhelming anxiety. just because I look normal doesn’t mean I’m coping people! my dr thinks prozac is better with anxiety than many others. and it cuts down on the ocd tendancies a bit. so I won’t have the cleanest refrigerator in the world anymore……..
March 3rd, 2008 at 7:23 am
John, do whatever you need to do to be okay for and with your family. Everyone else’s input (except the doctors and the folks who aren’t here to judge) be damned. Good luck.
March 3rd, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Best of luck with your meds. I have been taking anti-depressants since the birth of my daughter 8 years ago, and it has made all the difference. I have been reading the Armstrong blogs for a few years now, and I adore you all! Sending you only good thoughts and well-wishes from Maryland.
March 5th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Great presentation! Very funny… in that “holy shit, life can really fuck with you” kind of way. Good luck with the meds. I hope they help balance things out a bit.
March 6th, 2008 at 7:04 am
I feel you. Although I’m unable to think of any words to convey just how much. So here are some links which made me feel very at ease:
http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2008/02/08
http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2008/02/08
March 6th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
This is what I get for missing a few days (okay weeks) of posts! This presentation is gold, but I also just want to hug you all because you’ve had so much stress. So YOU GO. Take that Prozac, baby!
I mean, hey man, I take Yaz (birth control) to help stabilize my majestic mood swings that always come about once a month, that only got worse after I had the kiddo. So really, you do what you have to do!!
I wish you the best. always!
March 7th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
I am now considering making my own stress levels chart. But that might depress me. !!
Seriously, as soon as I’m done with my current pregnancy and breast-feeding routine, I’m planning to check out the meds myself. Regardless of what my Christian friends think - there ARE limits to what we can handle, I think. Jesus never had my schedule, I’m clear on that.
March 8th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
love you guys, but i seriously think it’d help if you all lived somewhere where the weather didn’t suck so bad. also, a hyperactive australian shepherd probably wasn’t the best choice.
March 10th, 2008 at 8:22 am
Jon I think you and Heather are two of the most talented and interesting people on the internetz.
SSRIs are a good thing - don’t let the stigmas and nay-sayers bring you to doubt your decision. .
And talk therapy is good too.
I hope you also consider other things like paying extra attention to nutrition, exercise, and try something like yoga or another form of meditation.
You mention in another post that you lack the opportunity to destress and really relax - yoga and mediation can help. and the best part is, with practice, you’ll find that the relaxation happens faster and deeper when you most need it.
One more thing - ACUPUNCTURE! i cannot stress my recommendation for this enough. I know it can get costly to pay for out of pocket (damn insurance industry), but it may change your life.
all the best to you and yours
~T(h)om