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		Emotional Wellness Mary Symmes is the founder of Self Investment Strategies and a life coach devoted to the empowerment of working women. Mary is also a clinical social worker in Alexandria, Va. Visit her Web site at SelfInvestmentStrategies.com Treatment for Depression Question: Should I go back on antidepressant? I was diagnosed with post-partum depression when my son was about 3-4 months old and was on Paxil until just after the first of the year. I followed the Dr. instructions to go off them and was feeling pretty good. This month I have noticed myself getting frustrated very easily, unusual sleep patterns, snapping at my husband and the crying jags are back too! Should I get my Dr. to put me back on the Rx and rely on this for the rest of my life? Is there anything else? I've heard so many bad things about Paxil but I was a much better person when I was taking it. C. Answer: You do certainly sound like you are depressed again (or still), and I think you need to contact your doctor. I don't know what bad things you have heard about Paxil, but if it works well for you, it doesn't matter what other people have to say about it. I think it is such a mercy that we now have these drugs to treat depression, and can limit the amount of time people have to be miserable. As an illness, depression has a life of its own. You didn't tell me how long you had been taking Paxil, but generally doctors prefer you to stay on antidepressants for at least a year so you have enough time to "retrain" your brain to function normally. Also, once you have had a major depression, you are statistically more likely to have another one. If you have a history of depression in your family you may want to stay on medicine for several years, at least. Talk to your doctor and see what he/she recommends. The important thing is to get yourself feeling better soon, so do make an appointment with your doctor. Also, if you have not explored psychotherapy, you may want to do that now. Hope this helps, and good luck! Other Recent Questions: I can't decide if I should go back to work after I have a baby or not. Any advice? I'm worried that my husband may be having an affair. How can I find out? Ask Mary your questions The above is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for professional mental health treatment. Individuals should consult licensed professionals as needed. Email this story to a friend		Search BlueSuitMom.com    D a i l y   S t o p s • Exercise of the Month • BMI Calculator • Exercise Calculator • Live Right, Live Well • Sign Up For Our Newsletter Ask an Expert • Personal Trainer • Pediatrician • Holistic Health    P o l l  Do you allow your child to drink soda? No, never Yes, only occasionally Yes, anytime they want Yes, only at special times View results
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