by Steve
(Sarasota FL)
I was divorced 6 months ago and was really depressed. I am now on 150 mg Effexor and I am still feeling depressed. I had 3 months of therapy that helped. I was getting better but due to another family trauma now I am getting worse again. I do not want to increase the dose of the antidepressant because of side effects. I exercise often.
Is there an option for me to try natural remedies?
Ben's Answer:
Some people experience very significant withdrawal symptoms when they try to go off of Effexor. If you do decide to go off of it, please do so carefully - and with your doctor's guidance. There are a number of natural antidepressants - including St. John's Wort, SAM-e, 5-HTP, and Tryptophan, to name some of the most popular. Generally people report far fewer side effects from these, and there are many studies out there about their efficacy, though the FDA won't accept any of those positive results. Again, talk to your doctor first, and don't mix these with your Rx medication, as it may be too intense and cause negative effects.
If you've experienced a new trauma that has triggered your depression, I highly recommend EFT as one of the most effective, gentle, and rapid methods of resolving traumas, and alleviating all sorts of emotional issues, including depression.
You can find information about EFT on this website. In the beginning it is often best to work with an EFT Practitioner either in person, or by phone, to get the best results. Once learned, you can use it on your own quite effectively for many issues.
Best Wishes,
Ben Schwarcz