Menopause And Depression

Is it depression or menopause?

Ok, I need to get this under control.
I have basically been in the house since Dec. 2006.
I switched from Paxil (20 years) to Lexapro 15 mg in Dec. 2006 because I felt the Paxil was not working.

Hi Dianne:
You don't say how old you are, so it's hard to tell if you are menopausal or not - but you certainly do need help. You say you switched medications - was that on the advice of your doctor or on your own initiative? You could be reacting to the medication.
One thing for sure - if you haven't been out of the house in eight months, you aren't getting enough exercise, and lack of exercise can exacerbate whatever symptoms you are having, whether they originate in depression or in menopause. There are support groups that can help you get back in society - to experience the stimulation and pleasure that comes from interacting with other people.
Check with your public health nurse to find out how to locate a support group, and get yourself out of the house. That's the first step! Then find something to occupy your time and your energy. There are hundreds of organizations crying out for volunteers and believe me, when you help someone else, you help yourself more.
It's good that you recognize that you have a problem and are willing to work towards a solution. So - talk to your doctor about the medicine, call the public health nurse, join a library discussion group (they're free, and very stimulating) and volunteer your services for some upcoming charity event.
Good luck to you.

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