Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Low Energy And Motivation Levels When Diagnosed With Depression?
Question: Hello,
I think my symptoms of depression have greatly improved. However, I'm still having some symptoms and not sure exactly what they are associated with. I still have no energy, motivation, and feel very "sluggish"/tired. It takes me forever to get something done, if I finish it at all. For example, it will take my four days to complete a load of laundry. I'll want to take my baby somewhere, but just won't have the energy/motivation to do it. Are these still symptoms of depression ? What is Provigil ? I read that it helps w motivation. Is it like adderall ? Is that something that would help w these symptoms
I think my symptoms of depression have greatly improved. However, I'm still having some symptoms and not sure exactly what they are associated with. I still have no energy, motivation, and feel very "sluggish"/tired. It takes me forever to get something done, if I finish it at all. For example, it will take my four days to complete a load of laundry. I'll want to take my baby somewhere, but just won't have the energy/motivation to do it. Are these still symptoms of depression ? What is Provigil ? I read that it helps w motivation. Is it like adderall ? Is that something that would help w these symptoms
Brief Answer:
Private Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello! Thank you again so much for reaching out to me directly.
Your symptoms of low energy and low motivation are indeed symptoms of depression, and are typically the last symptoms to improve. They will almost certainly improve with antidepressant treatment alone. However, there are other options that can be helpful. One is cognitive behavioral psychotherapy. Another is a stimulant medication such as Adderall, Ritalin, or another typr of medication you mention, Provigil. Provigil is actually not a stimulant like Adderall, although they are used for similar things. Provigil is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor similar to the action of antidepressants like Wellbutrin. It might help you and could be worth a try.
Dr. Sheppe
Private Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello! Thank you again so much for reaching out to me directly.
Your symptoms of low energy and low motivation are indeed symptoms of depression, and are typically the last symptoms to improve. They will almost certainly improve with antidepressant treatment alone. However, there are other options that can be helpful. One is cognitive behavioral psychotherapy. Another is a stimulant medication such as Adderall, Ritalin, or another typr of medication you mention, Provigil. Provigil is actually not a stimulant like Adderall, although they are used for similar things. Provigil is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor similar to the action of antidepressants like Wellbutrin. It might help you and could be worth a try.
Dr. Sheppe
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Thank you for the info. It is my understanding that unless you're diagnosed w narcolepsy or another sleep disorder insurance doesn't cover Provigil. Is that true ? Is it not typically prescribed for off label purposes ?
Brief Answer:
Followup
Detailed Answer:
Typically yes this is the case. Your doctor might be able to call your insurance company to obtain a prior authorization to decrease the cost, but this isn't guaranteed.
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 web address 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 web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Followup
Detailed Answer:
Typically yes this is the case. Your doctor might be able to call your insurance company to obtain a prior authorization to decrease the cost, but this isn't guaranteed.
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 web address 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 web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
