Thoughts on medication ...

I hesitate to ask, as I don't think there are any easy answers here and everyone is different, but I would be interested to hear people's experiences of medication for anxiety/depression.

I have struggled on and off with anxiety and depression over the years, with some medical intervention which was not very successful (although this was before my AS diagnosis). I understand from internet searches that some medication works better for people with AS, so was wondering if anyone has any recommendations.

My anxiety levels vary a lot, and I know that sustained high levels will wear me down and possibly lead to depression. I spoke to my GP today who seems quite understanding and has asked me to think about whether I would consider some short-term medication (he didn't mention any specific names) and/or CBT (which I have never tried and there is a waiting list for that). I am unsure so would appreciate any advice/thoughts as I mull it over ...

My opinion is to figure out the depression/anxiety itself and try to overcome it with a therapist or alone, whatever is better for you. you could use anti-D's while you do this, but from my understanding long term use deepens depression. So if you were to ever take a break or lose your script, you'll be in a deeper hole than before if you weren't trying to overcome it.

Preparation is where I fell short. I tried CBT when my depression was at its worst, but it was largely a failure. It was difficult to make progress because I was speaking behind defense mechanisms, and I stressed myself out each time I failed at some objective (for instance, countering a thought of hopelessness). Part of the latter was that I had unreasonable expectations about how long it would take to get better. (Sorry if I'm being vague, my memory of the ordeal is clouded.) I do believe that if I understood myself better, and was able to be more honest with the psychologist, that it would have been a success. But, really, I wasn't ready for CBT yet.

Thanks for your thoughts (- I like the new profile pic, Zausel )!

I have very mixed feelings about medication and totally agree that sorting something out yourself/naturally is always better in the long-term. I would consider something short-term, but I would not want to feel that I depended on anything.

I also agree that being 'ready' for therapy is vital ... I tried some therapy - had some foisted on me - many years ago that turned out to be psychdynamic (I only realise that now), and I had absolutely nothing to say, couldn't articulate anything, and ended up angry and frustrated with the whole experience that probably did more harm than good. From what I can see, CBT is a far more goal-oriented and pragmatic approach, so it definitely appeals more.