Psychologist or Psychatrist?

Question

I have been depressed for a long time (forever, but I have been very numb for about a year. I have also gained about 30 lbs, but I don't even care anymore) . It rotates between extreme sadness to utter numbness. NOTHING makes me happy like it used to. I have seen a psychologist before, and while I liked talking to her, I really didn't get anything out of it. I know why I do and feel things and am not going to have a revalation with a psychologist. However, I don't feel like I have a chemical imbalance. I tried Zoloft and it only made me feel dead inside, and I didn't care who I hurt emotionally. I don't want to waste a psychologist's time who will probably find nothing wrong with me, but psychologist don't seem to help. I have lost all hope for the future and have very few friends (it is very hard for me to make them) and live in a town where the main store is K-Mart (so there is nothing to distract me). Any recommendations on what I should do?

Answer 1

I am so sorry you feel this way! I can definently relate. Can you move out of the small depressing town you live in? If you can't, then you need to either keep yourself busy by working over time, or find a new hobby.

It's easier said then done, but I hope that you feel better because being depresed is no joke. I am always on an emotional roller coaster. All I really have to say is keep your head up!  

Answer 2

Find another therapist.  Find a mental health practice that has both psychologists and psychiatrists.  There are many, many medications that can help you to be lifted out of this depression.   A lot of people have to try more than one.  "Talk" therapy can be great, but if often needs to be paired with medications to achieve the best result.

Don't give up.  Try again.  No one needs to feel like you do and you deserve a life that you can enjoy.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Go back to the psychiatrist Zoloft may not have worked but there are many others and it may take trying a few before you find the one right for you, when you do you will feel much better and then you may find a psychologist of benefit.

Answer 4

Go see a psychiatrist.  The zoloft didnt work for you.  This is normal, I had to go through several antidepressants until they discovered the correct one and dosing for me.  I am a completely different person now because of it as well.

Answer 5

I would see a psychiatrist.  I have bipolar disorder and my primary care doctor misdiagnosed me with anxiety and depression.  The problem is that they are treated differently.  A psychiatrist is the specialist and they can give you a proper diagnosis and treatment.  My psychiatrist has really helped me.  I am on medications and am in therapy and it really helps me.