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Suggest Treatment For Severe Depression And Lack Of Motivation

Posted on Fri, 6 May 2016

Question: At age 25, I was diagnosed with severe panic disorder and depression. I tried so many anti-depressants but nothing made me feel well. So I was prescribed an MAOI - Nardil, which brought me back to feeling normal again. I am now 53 and still taking Nardil. I have gone through menopause- but my focus is all over the place. I am married to an alcoholic who also is doing cocaine (just found that one out). He gets mean and verbally attacks me often (never physically). I want to leave, but I am scared to be alone. There are so many days I find myself doing nothing but sitting on my laptop playing games ALL day. I don't feel depressed, just numb and unmotivated. I'm so tired of not being able to leave (my choice) - the ambivalence is draining me. I don't understand why I just can't make the move. I KNOW I deserve better. This does not make sense to me. I have a prestigious job as a Client Services Director and very successful at it. The more I try to use positive self talk , pray for guidance and even 3 1/2 yrs of counseling for abused women - I still can't leave. Is it possible my fear is causing my feelings of numbness and no motivation?? Or could there possibly be something physical going on?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (28 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM and thanks for your question.
I'm sorry you are going through such a difficult time. Here are my thoughts.

You have conquered a lot in your life, including severe depression -- this speaks to your courage and strength. Breaking the cycle of abuse is one of the hardest things to do. It could be related to a lack of motivation possibly linked to a major depressive episode -- your Nardil may need to be adjusted or augmented, or your thyroid medication may need to be increased -- but I suspect this is simply the extraordinary difficulty of dealing with separating from a man you've known a long time, but whom you know you need to leave.

I highly recommend reaching out to your therapist or prescribing doctor for resources in your area about how to safely leave your husband. This involves connecting with abuse victim resources, having a safety plan for exit, and other things. Lean on your support network at this difficult time. I know you can do it.

Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website.
My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak

Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (47 minutes later)

I live in Central NY - Sryacuse area and have not had much luck in finding really good psychiatrists in this area. I seem to get hooked up with Social Workers (CSW) and find the sessions more about their personal beliefs (unresolved issues) that get deflected on to me. Do you have any good recommendations for this area.? Phsychologist of Psychiatrist?? Or any other places? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. I just want to be happy and strong again.

Respectfully submitted

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (1 minute later)

Brief Answer:
Followup

Detailed Answer:
Typically the best way to find a psychiatrist who accepts your insurance is to go on your insurance provider's website and search for psychiatrists or psychologists in your area. Unfortunately I'm only familiar with treaters in the NYC area. But given a little bit of searching I'm sure you'll find someone who can help you.

Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak