Posted by Wendy B. on June 20, 2001, at 9:47:05
In reply to Re:Treatment Resistant Depression - Efexor/Remeron, posted by sweetmarie on June 18, 2001, at 10:45:21
(message from Cam)
>
> Thanks for that - it`s answered my question.
>
> As I`ve been on Venlafaxine for 6 weeks now (1 week at 375 mg, which I think is as high as they are going to take it), and Mirtazapine for 5 weeks, I imagine that the combination will be guaged from 5 weeks ago (approx). So, I wouldn`t necessarily have noticed any alteration in mood yet.
>
> The `spanner in the works` was that the professor (who is treating me) told me 3 weeks ago that he "expected me to be better in 3 - 4 weeks". Well, the 3 week period elapsd 3 days ago, and frankly I feel virtually no different to when I was first admitted to hospital (i.e. still majorly depressed). It has taken me years to learn NOT to ask the question "when will I be better?", as there is pretty much no meaningful response. So, when the professor volunteered this 3 - 4 week period, I immediately latched onto it, although I knew it to be tenuous. I don`t really know why I`m mentioning this, except to illustrate the nature of my consultant - i.e. very optimistic indeed. No bad thing, but realism is equally as necessary.
>
> Anyway, thanks again. I`m going back to hospital now (I`m currently on home leave), and will `check in` again when I`m next home (next w/end, all being well).
>
> Cheers once again,
>
> Anna.
Hey Anna,
Hang tight, as they say in the states, meaning - don't give up yet... The 3-4 weeks was probably a bit optimistic, don't you think? It does take an 8-12 week trial to see if the meds will work, for most people. Your professor may have had easier cases prior to you! It's a very tough disease, and I think you're quite right about a dose of reality being necessary, too.I'm glad you're allowed "home leave" (does it feel like you're in the army?). I hope it helps make you feel a little more normalized. I am interested in your responses to being in hospital for such a long time. You seem relatively calm & stable, even when majorly depressed. Do you keep a journal of your experiences? I've heard it helps...
My hat goes off to you and my heart goes out to you. Please do check in when you're home, and we'll be waiting to hear from you with much hope,
Wendy
poster:Wendy B.
thread:55847
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010618/msgs/67217.html