what do you do for a living?

[all the same]

All this talk of annoying people at work makes me wonder what everyone does for a living. You've probably done this before, but hey, a second time... or possibly a fifteenth time doesn't hurt, does it?

I am a freelance graphic designer.

[skcin]

Registered nurse at a college health center.

[HomerMcvie]

I do sound(mostly mixing monitors) for touring acts. Doing one of Bob Marley's son's band tonight. Damien, I think. The weed will be a waftin' in the air. :lol:
I also play in a local band.

[mylittledemon]

I've done just about everything. Retail, insurance, construction...I am tired of working for Best Buy as I have for the last 3 years though. Currently I install home theater equipment for them. It's decent but I hate going in peoples' attics!! =)

[Josh2003]

I am a full-time college student at Denison University in Granville, OH, working toward my BA in Political Science :-)

BUT

I do have several jobs on campus: I am a caller for the annual fund (I call alumni and ask for donations to the school), I'm a tour guide, and I am a French tutor.

[amber]

I talk on the ledge for a living.

[seeker007nmss]

I talk on the ledge for a living.


:p :lol: :laugh: :nod:

[CreepingDeath]

Right now I'm just a lowly college student. :rolleyes:

Other then that, I work at Circo in The Bellagio.

[DrummerDeanna]

I am a program host/news reporter for an NPR member station (radio).

So I am the local host for All Things Considered - I do local news casts as well as weather, traffic etc...

Then I have general reporter duties...:D

[WelshWitchPMD]

I work for a credit union. I don't really like it but they are flexable for vacations for the most part. I work in the loan operations area and it is so BORING! :rolleyes:

[seeker007nmss]

I am a program host/news reporter for an NPR member station (radio).

So I am the local host for All Things Considered - I do local news casts as well as weather, traffic etc...

Then I have general reporter duties...:D

Our own favorite famous star! :D You should put in to do a story on the ledgies going to Vegas....MAybe they will pay your way!

[dissention]

I am a prostitute.

[pianogirl04]

I'm in college and I teach piano and voice lessons.

[hayley]

I am a prostitute.
I f**king knew it!

I work for a record company, currently in tour marketing. I also have a part-time job at Borders, where I spend my time getting uncomfortable ringing up pervy dudes and their erotica.

[dissention]

I also have a part-time job at Borders, where I spend my time getting uncomfortable ringing up pervy dudes and their erotica.

It was only that one time and I told you I had to learn how to Jihva-bhramanaka somehow.

[hayley]

It was only that one time and I told you I had to learn how to Jihva-bhramanaka somehow.
Pfft. That's what they all say.

[GypsySorcerer]

I'm a graduate assistant soon to be unemployed come May. :eek:

[seeker007nmss]

In all those ads......I am the BEFORE guy.

[amber]

In all those ads......I am the BEFORE guy.
:laugh: :lol: :laugh: :lol:

[sparky]

I am a prostitute.

I'm his pimp.

BTW, VIP packages are available.

[SuzeQuze]

Our own favorite famous star! :D You should put in to do a story on the ledgies going to Vegas....MAybe they will pay your way!

Now THAT is genius! I showed my roommate my dress this morning and she gave me the thumbs up. :blob1:

I test computer books for a publishing firm. I'm assigned a chapter, I go through it as though I were a student and make corrections as I go along. I do like it, it's a really good job.

[dissention]

I'm his pimp.

BTW, VIP packages are available.

One of these days I'm just going to run off and sell my papayas on my own.

[sparky]

One of these days I'm just going to run off and sell my papayas on my own.

Oh, Baby Don't Leave Me....

:xoxo:

[amber]

Oh, Baby Don't Leave Me....

:xoxo:
He's down on his knees.... ;) :thumbsup:

[Sugar]

I'm the assistant to the editorial page editor of the local newspaper.

[xdreamsunwindx]

I'm a full time student. I do graphic/webpage design occasionally for little money. No one will hire me. ****ing age restrictions. -_-

I might get a job waiting tables this summer, though. I need a job so. badly.

[trackaghost]

I'm an assassin for hire.
I charge reasonable rates too, so don't be afraid to ask.

[HomerMcvie]

I'm an assassin for hire.
I charge reasonable rates too, so don't be afraid to ask.
You're hired! C'mon over, I need a package deal! :cool: :lol:

[catinthedark]

Amber, you're hilarious.

I'm a TV journalist.

[hayley]

I'm an assassin for hire.
I charge reasonable rates too, so don't be afraid to ask.
Do you charge extra if I don't know the mark's full name and only their general location, and you have to do some digging?

[sara1998]

During the week I work in financial at a pharmaceutical company. I do a lot of data entrty. I keep track of all raw materail usage. I also check and investigate all of manufacturing errors concerning raw materials.

[Red]

I'm a fine jewellery designer.

[DownOnRodeo]

I team-teach English in a Japanese junior high school.

I've had a great range of jobs up until now: waiter, library book processor (stamping, covering etc), tutoring English, tour guiding Japanese college student groups.

But I've always been a student .. I still am even now, just on hiatus!

[tynan88]

I am a high school student and work part time as a service assistant at my local supermarket. Boring but cool people at work...not so much at school grrrr.

[GateandGarden]

In all those ads......I am the BEFORE guy.:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol: That's the best one! :nod:

I'm a full time college student going for my BA in English with a minor in history. I also do supplemental instruction for a freshman English class.

[trackaghost]

Do you charge extra if I don't know the mark's full name and only their general location, and you have to do some digging?

I don't charge extra, because, really, I'm just in the killing business for fun.

[jannieC]

I just graduated with a BS in Psychology and am hoping to go to graduate school in the fall. Until then, I am a manager of a coffee shop and I work for Hospice.

[markolas]

I process annuity applications for a life insurance company. But, I'm going back to school for graphic design. Again. :)

[Stephanie]

I am an eye doc. I work 3 days a week in practice with a surgeon, and 2 days a week in a commercial setting.

[dissention]

I just graduated with a BS in Psychology

That cracked me up for some reason. :laugh: Congratulations on graduating!

[StevieNicksEO17]

I'm a full time student. No job or anything.... :)

[terrivac]

I work in student financial aid for a private liberal arts college.

Terri

[jannieC]

That cracked me up for some reason. :laugh: Congratulations on graduating!
It really is BS for now- can't do a THING with it until I go to grad school. :)

[StevieNicksEO17]

I'm a junior in highschool. That's pretty much it. I'm building a website for my Photography teacher's neighbor, so I guess that's my current job.

Wooooooooooo for Juniors!

[TwistedGypsy]

I've been a waitress for over a year now :distress: ...2 words:
F**K TOURISTS! I hate it but...I love their money. :nod: I could go on and on about how the people that visit here are the stuipdest people on the face of the planet but we'll save that for another time and another place.
Brit

[ontheEdgeof17]

I'll be a Registered Nurse (BSN) in a few short months....... :D

[Serrart]

I'm a journalist. :)

Romy

[CreepingDeath]

F**K TOURISTS! I hate it but...I love their money. :nod: I could go on and on about how the people that visit here are the stuipdest people on the face of the planet but we'll save that for another time and another place.

I know what you mean. I work at The Bellagio, and the tourists are unbearable.

Occasionally some drunken high roller will leave a pretty big tip though. :thumbsup:

[kak125]

I am a Test Engineer which means that I basically test educational software, printers, digital cameras, scanners and basically anything else that has to do with computers.

It is a cool job but it gets boring and sometimes you just want to take the computer and toss it out the window.

[golddustwoman77]

I am an eye doc. I work 3 days a week in practice with a surgeon, and 2 days a week in a commercial setting.


Awesome! My husband is an eye doctor too. He graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. He was president of the TN Optometric Association last year. You might know him, since you're in Alabama. :)

[golddustwoman77]

I'm a fourth grade teacher. I have been teaching now for eight years; all of which were spent teaching fourth grade. If I choose to branch out, I could teach 1st through 8th grade.

[wondergirl9847]

I am a prostitute.

I was going to post the same exact thing, before I read your post. The fact we are on the same wavelength is frightening me and I may have to kill myself. :shocked:

:lol:

I do data entry at home. Best job I've ever had! :nod: I've been doing this type of work for over 6 years.

[seeker007nmss]

I know what you mean. I work at The Bellagio, and the tourists are unbearable.

Occasionally some drunken high roller will leave a pretty big tip though. :thumbsup:



Rattle...Rattle..Rattle....Here come the Cattle....... :nod:

[skcin]

I know what you mean. I work at The Bellagio, and the tourists are unbearable.

Occasionally some drunken high roller will leave a pretty big tip though. :thumbsup:


I assume you're not aiming this at those of us that wil be in Vegas in 2&1/2 weeks? ;)

Well, you're certainly not aiming the tip comment at us, we're all way too broke after buying these tix to tip you very well. Sorry. :wavey:

slinks back to the flamingo

:D

[thepoetinmyhear]

I was going to post the same exact thing, before I read your post. The fact we are on the same wavelength is frightening me and I may have to kill myself. :shocked:

:lol:

I do data entry at home. Best job I've ever had! :nod: I've been doing this type of work for over 6 years.

That's also what I do, data entry and database management for about three different companies. The hours are great (work when I want to), the pay is great and the commute is the best part.

[Mari]

I'm a bookkeeper for a painter's company. Plus all kinds of administrative stuff/accountant stuff, in a small company you have to do lots of different things. I love that!
Maybe only for just a few months more. Well, that's what I heard last week. :( It sucks to be a temp. Especially now that I finally can say I actually Like my job.

[SuzeQuze]

That cracked me up for some reason. :laugh: Congratulations on graduating!

Um, yeah. For some reason with that degree at my school we could pick BA or BS, I picked BA. :rolleyes:

[irishgrl]

whenever I see BA my mind thinks Bare Ass. My mind has more fun than I do :rolleyes:

I myself am a plant for the far right, sent here to secretly suck you all in with my pseudo liberal/feminist agenda. Fooled ya all didnt I? :nod:

[HomerMcvie]

Um, yeah. For some reason with that degree at my school we could pick BA or BS, I picked BA. :rolleyes:
BA for me, too. I think the main reason being that BS required another Math class, which I DESPISE. I'm very good at Math, up to a point. When it comes to 15 page computations, I think I have A.D.D.. :shrug:

[SuzeQuze]

BA for me, too. I think the main reason being that BS required another Math class, which I DESPISE. I'm very good at Math, up to a point. When it comes to 15 page computations, I think I have A.D.D.. :shrug:

Yeah, me too. I picked BA because I did not want anyone to tell me my degree was BS. :nod: I'm not that great at advanced math myself although I somehow got a B in calculus, not so well in calc 2 which I never should have even taken. Oh well. And I totally have ADD. Waitaminnut, how'd I get here, I'm supposed to be working! :p

[jannieC]

Um, yeah. For some reason with that degree at my school we could pick BA or BS, I picked BA. :rolleyes:

I didn't have a choice. I was told that Psych is a science, therefore the BS. I would have LOVED to have skipped some of those math classes. A lot of people think that Psychology is an easy major- it really isn't. Not when you figure in Statistics and Research Methods. :(

[SuzeQuze]

I didn't have a choice. I was told that Psych is a science, therefore the BS. I would have LOVED to have skipped some of those math classes. A lot of people think that Psychology is an easy major- it really isn't. Not when you figure in Statistics and Research Methods. :(

I know! Thank you for that! I studied a lot and wrote tons of papers for psych so to say it's easy is bullsh*t.

[mondaymornin1]

I'm the president of the Bo Bice Fan Club.

Ahem...ok, I'm a pharmacist, really. I work part-time in a tiny hospital. Boring, but great $$!

[amber]

I'm the president of the Bo Bice Fan Club.

Ahem...ok, I'm a pharmacist, really. I work part-time in a tiny hospital. Boring, but great $$!
Yeah, I heard pharmacists make good money... :shrug: Sweeeeeeeet!!! :thumbsup:

[dissention]

I know! Thank you for that! I studied a lot and wrote tons of papers for psych so to say it's easy is bullsh*t.

Unless you do online classes! My old college UMASS now offers tons of bachelors through online classes and psych is one of them. What a way to get an easy degree. :rolleyes:

Kudos to the two of you. :xoxo:

[mondaymornin1]

Yeah, I heard pharmacists make good money... :shrug: Sweeeeeeeet!!! :thumbsup:


'Tis true, it's a great career for a working mom if you can find decent hours in a tiny hospital, like me. :D But working for the public in a drug store sucks! :rolleyes: People are mean.

[SuzeQuze]

Unless you do online classes! My old college UMASS now offers tons of bachelors through online classes and psych is one of them. What a way to get an easy degree. :rolleyes:

Kudos to the two of you. :xoxo:

Thanks for the kudos, that was sweet. :xoxo:

Bridgewater had a writing requirement for ALL classes so I had to do papers in everything I took. Good thing is, I can write. Bad thing is, I'm a procrastinator! :laugh: Writing a 20 pager over night is very stressful and not recommended. :eek:

[dissention]

Thanks for the kudos, that was sweet. :xoxo:

Bridgewater had a writing requirement for ALL classes so I had to do papers in everything I took. Good thing is, I can write. Bad thing is, I'm a procrastinator! :laugh: Writing a 20 pager over night is very stressful and not recommended. :eek:

That's when I write my best stuff, under pressure. :laugh: If I start something early on, I have a tendency to go a little overboard and I nitpick at everything until I think it's impeccable. I love to write, though. :nod:

[GardenStateGirlie]

I think everyone knows what I do for a living (because I come here and bitch about it frequently) but we can also add voiceovers to that as well :D I've been asked to record a voiceover for the salon instead of them hiring someone as they usually do (still not sure if i'm getting paid or not but I sure wouldn't mind adding that to the resume). Aside from that, it's looking like TCNJ junior come this fall...we shall soon see!

[CreepingDeath]

'Tis true, it's a great career for a working mom if you can find decent hours in a tiny hospital, like me. :D But working for the public in a drug store sucks! :rolleyes: People are mean.

Right after high school I worked as a pharmacy tech, and I couldn't believe how rude some people were. :eek:

[Mad4stevie]

I am a family law attorney and part-time antiques dealer.

[amber]

Unless you do online classes! My old college UMASS now offers tons of bachelors through online classes and psych is one of them. What a way to get an easy degree. :rolleyes:

Kudos to the two of you. :xoxo:
Yeah, my class friend was saying he could get his whole degree online from Oregon State. :shrug: I'm not sure that it would be any easier, though. Anyway, it sure sounds convenient. I bet you couldn't get a P.E. degree that way, though. Hmmm.

[SuzeQuze]

That's when I write my best stuff, under pressure. :laugh: If I start something early on, I have a tendency to go a little overboard and I nitpick at everything until I think it's impeccable. I love to write, though. :nod:

I hear you. You're forced to "let things go" when you have a finite number of consecutive hours ahead of you. It's weird though because I'd finish a paper, and it would be good and thorough but I would never be able to tell you about it, I'd have to say "read the paper". :laugh:

I love to write too. Um, I guess that's not really a surprise given the number of posts I have here. :D I want to take the time to do more creative stuff though.

[SuzeQuze]

Right after high school I worked as a pharmacy tech, and I couldn't believe how rude some people were. :eek:

Well, they're sick, and you're taking their money. But yeah, people suck. I worked with the public for years and years, no thanks.

[jannieC]

Unless you do online classes! My old college UMASS now offers tons of bachelors through online classes and psych is one of them. What a way to get an easy degree. :rolleyes:

Kudos to the two of you. :xoxo:

Thanks- I was 36 when I graduated and it really was a monumental event for me- I worked my ass off. I'm not sure about online degrees- especially for a degree in something you have to go to graduate school for (like psychology). Oh wait, I just realized you did the little "roll eyes" face. Ok.

And the whole writing papers the night before they're due? That would be me. Buy I always did so well on papers, I figured the positive reinforcement is what kept me in my procrastination world. The ONLY paper I didn't do that way was my Senior Seminar paper, and that was 36 pages.

[golden braid]

I teach riding lessons and train horses. I love my job because I get to set my own schedule, be outside, and do what I love to do anyway. I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

[amber]

I teach riding lessons and train horses. I love my job because I get to set my own schedule, be outside, and do what I love to do anyway. I couldn't imagine doing anything else.
That does sound like an extremely rad job. I want to ride a horse - when I can, I'll come to you! :xoxo:

[HomerMcvie]

I didn't have a choice. I was told that Psych is a science, therefore the BS. I would have LOVED to have skipped some of those math classes. A lot of people think that Psychology is an easy major- it really isn't. Not when you figure in Statistics and Research Methods. :(
Psych was my major, too. WITH the exception of stats, I did think it was an easy major. Stats was the ONLY class I never skipped once! I was terrified that if I did, I'd be f*cked! I actually paid attention, took truckloads of notes, and barely squeaked by!!! That's when I decided BA, not BS.

[sparky]

I teach riding lessons and train horses. I love my job because I get to set my own schedule, be outside, and do what I love to do anyway. I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

What a cool gig. I don't get to ride nearly enough.
Lucky you !

[amber]

What a cool gig. I don't get to ride nearly enough.
Lucky you !
That's not what I heard... :sorry:

[sparky]

That's not what I heard... :sorry:

I knew someone would snark all over that.

You never let me down, Homegirl !

:wavey:

[dissention]

That's not what I heard... :sorry:

:laugh:

You took the words right out of my filthy mouth.

[amber]

I knew someone would snark all over that.

You never let me down, Homegirl !

:wavey:
Baited and reeled in. :shrug: I am Pavlov's dog!!!!

[sparky]

You took the words right out of my filthy mouth.

You two both think I'm a whore.

Okay, Diss knows I am. :laugh:

[dissention]

You two both think I'm a whore.

Okay, Diss knows I am. :laugh:

You are. Not that I'm one to talk since you are my pimp, after all.

[amber]

Both of yours naivete makes me wax nostalgic for my young days... :cool:

[irishgrl]

Oh YEAH Amber, like you're all that OLD! :rolleyes:

[seeker007nmss]

Oh YEAH Amber, like you're all that OLD! :rolleyes:


There is a comment here, but I am not saying it. :laugh: :p

[ryan8472]

I'm a junior in high school and a dietary aid at a nursing home. Meaning I either prepare their food trays, deliver them, and/or do all the dishes. It's dumb, but I get $13.50 for it. :nod: Not too bad for a first job.

[skcin]

I'm a junior in high school and a dietary aid at a nursing home. Meaning I either prepare their food trays, deliver them, and/or do all the dishes. It's dumb, but I get $13.50 for it. :nod: Not too bad for a first job.


That's really good money for a nursing home. :shocked: I don't think they pay even $10 around here.

[Stephanie]

Awesome! My husband is an eye doctor too. He graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. He was president of the TN Optometric Association last year. You might know him, since you're in Alabama. :)

Cool! I just might! What year did he graduate? Even though I mainly have practiced in NYC, I graduated from UAB and have lived here for about 9 months now.

[estranged4life]

a QC/NDT technician (aka Quality Control/Non-Destructive Testing), But since my Mother's death I have taken time off to being absolutely stressed out.

Now I am just a stressed out person who is on lexapro :shrug:

[The Tower]

Now I am just a stressed out person who is on lexapro :shrug:
Be careful, Brian!!! Lexapro can have weird-ass side effects. I took it and Effexor (which is even worse - took them at different times) and had a lot of bad luck with it. If you start to feel "off-planet" or irritability that is even more irritated than you are from your mom passing and having to deal with all those hospital idiots, tell your doctor!

[irishgrl]

Paralegal/Social Worker/Political Lobbyist.
nuff said.

[estranged4life]

Be careful, Brian!!! Lexapro can have weird-ass side effects. I took it and Effexor (which is even worse - took them at different times) and had a lot of bad luck with it. If you start to feel "off-planet" or irritability that is even more irritated than you are from your mom passing and having to deal with all those hospital idiots, tell your doctor!

is that I am mellowed out...Everyone says I sound extremely mellow now, My sister is scared by the way I sound now on the phone :shrug:

[amber]

Be careful, Brian!!! Lexapro can have weird-ass side effects. I took it and Effexor (which is even worse - took them at different times) and had a lot of bad luck with it. If you start to feel "off-planet" or irritability that is even more irritated than you are from your mom passing and having to deal with all those hospital idiots, tell your doctor!
That's weird, i took effexor for a brief period of time, and didn't notice much. I was a little more...energetic? And I got a weird feeling in the back of my throat, but that's it. Also, someone gave me prescription for Paxil once (I think I went to the emergency room with an anxiety attack, which I don't have any more, thank goodness) and that stuff is really weird, it was very speedy to me. :shrug: Valium is weird, too, I've only had it a few times, but it makes me really, really, really, happy and hyper. Strange. okay, just thought I'd share.

[hayley]

Be careful, Brian!!! Lexapro can have weird-ass side effects. I took it and Effexor (which is even worse - took them at different times) and had a lot of bad luck with it. If you start to feel "off-planet" or irritability that is even more irritated than you are from your mom passing and having to deal with all those hospital idiots, tell your doctor!
See, I never had ANY problem with Effexor... it was the best for awhile. It never felt like it was doing anything artificial or actively zoning me out. I tried to describe it to the doctor once, and the best I could say was that I felt like it helped me wake up in the morning. I could wake up, get out of bed, and just move, which is something I couldn't say before. I have a prescription for Lexapro, but haven't been taking it because I'm a drunk, and wouldn't want my meds to interfere with my alcohol intake. Hee.

[irishgrl]

Hayley, I LOVE LOVE LOVE your Avatar!

ok. I go now.

[dissention]

Be careful, Brian!!! Lexapro can have weird-ass side effects. I took it and Effexor (which is even worse - took them at different times) and had a lot of bad luck with it. If you start to feel "off-planet" or irritability that is even more irritated than you are from your mom passing and having to deal with all those hospital idiots, tell your doctor!

I got violently ill when I went off of Effexor. 'Twas not pretty. I was on Prozac for awhile after Effexor and started gaining weight, so I kicked that **** immediately. :laugh: Now I look back and just think to myself 'Why the f*ck did you even go on that ****?'

[hayley]

Hayley, I LOVE LOVE LOVE your Avatar!

ok. I go now.
Hee. Thanks. I'm hellbent on Arrested Development achieving world domination. My avatar's totally going to help. :shrug:

[amber]

I got violently ill when I went off of Effexor. 'Twas not pretty. I was on Prozac for awhile after Effexor and started gaining weight, so I kicked that **** immediately. :laugh: Now I look back and just think to myself 'Why the f*ck did you even go on that ****?'
What do you mean, violently ill? I took it for about 2 months and didn't notice any problems.

[dissention]

What do you mean, violently ill? I took it for about 2 months and didn't notice any problems.

I was on it for eight months and it started to decrease my appetite too much, so my doctor took me off of it. He had me step down off of it slowly and I got incredible migraines, vomited in the mornings, the works. It only lasted for a week or so, but it was torturous. Reminded me of having food poisoning. :laugh: I was really sick about six years ago and the anti-depressants just made it worse; they weren't for me.

[amber]

I was on it for eight months and it started to decrease my appetite too much, so my doctor took me off of it. He had me step down off of it slowly and I got incredible migraines, vomited in the mornings, the works. It only lasted for a week or so, but it was torturous. Reminded me of having food poisoning. :laugh: I was really sick about six years ago and the anti-depressants just made it worse; they weren't for me.
Whoa! that sucks...but...you say you lost weight???? :lol: Actually, I seem to recall my appetite was a bit decreased....

[dissention]

Whoa! that sucks...but...you say you lost weight???? :lol: Actually, I seem to recall my appetite was a bit decreased....

I didn't lose much at all, my appetite was just nothing and he took me off of it before anything happened. I had a really good doctor. :nod: Prozac is the stuff that made me gain weight and I wasn't having any of that. :laugh:

[amber]

I didn't lose much at all, my appetite was just nothing and he took me off of it before anything happened. I had a really good doctor. :nod: Prozac is the stuff that made me gain weight and I wasn't having any of that. :laugh:
I know, really. I'd be off that so fast it'd make your head spin... :lol: Anyway, it think it's weird that both Paxil and valium are kind of Speedy for me. Does that mean I have ADD? What does that mean? :shrug: :p

[strandinthewind]

I got violently ill when I went off of Effexor. 'Twas not pretty. I was on Prozac for awhile after Effexor and started gaining weight, so I kicked that **** immediately. :laugh: Now I look back and just think to myself 'Why the f*ck did you even go on that ****?'

Ya know - I am like the hyperist (sp.?) person on the planet. Ask Glodie what it is like to be around that at like 7:30 a.m. after a Mac concert :eek: :laugh: Many doctors have wanted to put me on things. When I was a child - I am told they put me on something like Ridilin and it made me worse. This doctor I had one time tried to tell me I was manic but not depressive (I rarely get down and when it happens, I snap out of it pretty quickly) and wanted me to go on these drugs. I just refused. I knew this wise woman in Louisiana who taught me how to use my mind to calm myself down. It realy worked. I am so glad I used that instead of drugs because thought they may work on some people, they are just a mask and when they do not work, they are dangerous like in your instance. I just like myself and try to be calm. It works for the most part :laugh:

[amber]

Ya know - I am like the hyperist (sp.?) person on the planet. Ask Glodie what it is like to be around that at like 7:30 a.m. after a Mac concert :eek: :laugh: Many doctors have wanted to put me on things. When I was a child - I am told they put me on something like Ridilin and it made me worse. This doctor I had one time tried to tell me I was manic but not depressive (I rarely get down and when it happens, I snap out of it pretty quickly) and wanted me to go on these drugs. I just refused. I knew this wise woman in Louisiana who taught me how to use my mind to calm myself down. It realy worked. I am so glad I used that instead of drugs because thought they may work on some people, they are just a mask and when they do not work, they are dangerous like in your instance. I just like myself and try to be calm. It works for the most part :laugh:
That's great, Strand. :nod: I have some calming techniques, too. Mainly breathing in a certain way. Yoga helps as well. But I still have a bit of social anxiety, sometimes. It's not that serious, though.

[HomerMcvie]

Am I the only one here not on mood medication? I'm NOT trying to be judgemental, but I am truly amazed by the number of you on them.
A couple of years ago, I attended a dinner with about 12 of my closest high school friends(we were the artsy fartsy, fairly intelligent, mildly snobby, hard partier crowd). I believe 9 of the 12 were (now) on all these meds. I don't understand the need, I guess. I was brought up that you just make the best of what you're offered each day. Depressed? Get over it! (The previous is literally what I was told growing up). Much like Strand, I'm extremely hyper, and rarely get down. I don't even like taking aspirin....
Can someone explain your need?

[dissention]

Am I the only one here not on mood medication? I'm NOT trying to be judgemental, but I am truly amazed by the number of you on them.
A couple of years ago, I attended a dinner with about 12 of my closest high school friends(we were the artsy fartsy, fairly intelligent, mildly snobby, hard partier crowd). I believe 9 of the 12 were (now) on all these meds. I don't understand the need, I guess. I was brought up that you just make the best of what you're offered each day. Depressed? Get over it! (The previous is literally what I was told growing up). Much like Strand, I'm extremely hyper, and rarely get down. I don't even like taking aspirin....
Can someone explain your need?

I'm not on them anymore, I think they're evil. I'm so anti-drugs now that it isn't even funny. The only thing I'll take are antibiotics when I get strep (which is often), nothing else.

[strandinthewind]

The only ones I take are Ambien (like once a month and on the plane overseas) and Tylenol sinus and allergy in allergy season which is right now :laugh: Other than that, very rarely do I take anything - but I am fortunate I am very well according to my last physical and I rarely get sick enough to go to the doctor.

[amber]

Am I the only one here not on mood medication? I'm NOT trying to be judgemental, but I am truly amazed by the number of you on them.
A couple of years ago, I attended a dinner with about 12 of my closest high school friends(we were the artsy fartsy, fairly intelligent, mildly snobby, hard partier crowd). I believe 9 of the 12 were (now) on all these meds. I don't understand the need, I guess. I was brought up that you just make the best of what you're offered each day. Depressed? Get over it! (The previous is literally what I was told growing up). Much like Strand, I'm extremely hyper, and rarely get down. I don't even like taking aspirin....
Can someone explain your need?
I'm not, and was only briefly. Ok, I take St. Johns Wort. I wasn't ever really depressed, I would have anxiety attacks, which is why i took it at all. Anxiety attacks are debilitating. You can't breath, your hands and feat go numb (not convenient when you are driving) and then, afterwards, i would fall immediately asleep. uncontrollably. Also, I don't really have a problem with depression, so much as overreactiveness. It's kind of like I'm over responsive to stimuli, and can change moods in a flash. I mean, it's not that serious, but sometimes it's nice to not have such a quick temper, or even to laugh so easily. You know, to have your mood be more even, and less responsive to outside forces. It's kind of like I soak up too much of other people's energy and get over excited, over stimulated.:shrug: I mean, it would be great if I was an actress, but I'm not, i work in an office, so.... :laugh: Did that make sense? :confused:

[estranged4life]

Am I the only one here not on mood medication? I'm NOT trying to be judgemental, but I am truly amazed by the number of you on them.
A couple of years ago, I attended a dinner with about 12 of my closest high school friends(we were the artsy fartsy, fairly intelligent, mildly snobby, hard partier crowd). I believe 9 of the 12 were (now) on all these meds. I don't understand the need, I guess. I was brought up that you just make the best of what you're offered each day. Depressed? Get over it! (The previous is literally what I was told growing up). Much like Strand, I'm extremely hyper, and rarely get down. I don't even like taking aspirin....
Can someone explain your need?

being stressed (Not depressed as much as most people would expect me to be...I'm more PO'D at the medical 'cirumstances' with my Mother's death) out is the only reason I am on Lexapro, The stress was causing me chest pains so my Dr. figured I needed something to calm me down & relax me...Otherwise I feel fine (I am an EXTREME hyperactive person...Moreso than most people alive!)

[SuzeQuze]

Am I the only one here not on mood medication? I'm NOT trying to be judgemental, but I am truly amazed by the number of you on them.
A couple of years ago, I attended a dinner with about 12 of my closest high school friends(we were the artsy fartsy, fairly intelligent, mildly snobby, hard partier crowd). I believe 9 of the 12 were (now) on all these meds. I don't understand the need, I guess. I was brought up that you just make the best of what you're offered each day. Depressed? Get over it! (The previous is literally what I was told growing up). Much like Strand, I'm extremely hyper, and rarely get down. I don't even like taking aspirin....
Can someone explain your need?

You're lucky you have such a disposition. Telling someone who's depressed to get over it is like telling someone with a broken leg to walk it off. I thank God for anti depressants, a family member was suicidal a month ago and now he is doing very well. They can be abused like any medication but they are very important for a lot of people. The drugs are not evil but the way they are used/abused can be. I am on antidepressants myself. I tried for years to just get over it but I couldn't. It's a biological thing that runs deep in my family tree. It's a disease, a medical condition. I beat myself up plenty over it and I'm done with that. I'm doing better than I ever believed would be possible for myself. For people like me these medications are a literal life saver. No one should be ashamed to get help for this medical condition.

[HomerMcvie]

You're lucky you have such a disposition. Telling someone who's depressed to get over it is like telling someone with a broken leg to walk it off.
I guess I just don't understand why you(everyone) can't just let it go. Life is multi-faceted. If one aspect sucks, I just focus on what's going well. Ever evolving. Make lemonade, if you have to.....that's the attitude for me.
I thank God for anti depressants, a family member was suicidal a month ago and now he is doing very well. They can be abused like any medication but they are very important for a lot of people. The drugs are not evil but the way they are used/abused can be. I am on antidepressants myself. I tried for years to just get over it but I couldn't. It's a biological thing that runs deep in my family tree. It's a disease, a medical condition. I beat myself up plenty over it and I'm done with that. I'm doing better than I ever believed would be possible for myself. For people like me these medications are a literal life saver. No one should be ashamed to get help for this medical condition.
I'm glad that they help you. I've really only been depressed once in my life, over a relationship ending, about 5 years ago. I DO admit to being f*cked up then. But, I just found a way out (blah, blah, blah). :xoxo:

[SuzeQuze]

I guess I just don't understand why you(everyone) can't just let it go. Life is multi-faceted. If one aspect sucks, I just focus on what's going well. Ever evolving. Make lemonade, if you have to.....that's the attitude for me.

I'm glad that they help you. I've really only been depressed once in my life, over a relationship ending, about 5 years ago. I DO admit to being f*cked up then. But, I just found a way out (blah, blah, blah). :xoxo:

Well, I avoided medication for a loong time but I just couldn't pull out of it. Believe me, I really tried hard. And every time I slipped back into the abyss I felt it was a personal failure. But your moods are chemical and this chemistry is largely inherited, more out of your control than people would like to admit. You're born with how happy you'll be pretty much. So, again, you're lucky and I'm glad you don't have a mood disorder! :xoxo:

[strandinthewind]

Well, I avoided medication for a loong time but I just couldn't pull out of it. Believe me, I really tried hard. And every time I slipped back into the abyss I felt it was a personal failure. But your moods are chemical and this chemistry is largely inherited, more out of your control than people would like to admit. You're born with how happy you'll be pretty much. So, again, you're lucky and I'm glad you don't have a mood disorder! :xoxo:


I have to admit, I, too, just wanna say "SNAP OUT OF IT" a la Cher in MoonStruck :eek: :laugh: But, my ex suffered from it and I got a strong does of it that way. So, I now know how lucky I am not to have that. I do think though that the medication is a last resort as it made them a little crazier at times. So, I know where you are coming from though I did not prior to then.

[SuzeQuze]

I have to admit, I, too, just wanna say "SNAP OUT OF IT" a la Cher in MoonStruck :eek: :laugh: But, my ex suffered from it and I got a strong does of it that way. So, I now know how lucky I am not to have that. I do think though that the medication is a last resort as it made them a little crazier at times. So, I know where you are coming from though I did not prior to then.

And some people do use their depression as a crutch, "oh feel sorry for me, I'm depressed" bleh. I'm not saying that's not true. It just bugs me that meds are so demonized when they are so helpful to so many.

That said, I am glad that you did not listen to that doctor. It's rediculous to go on meds because you feel too good! Did he want to make you a zombie? Geesh. Have you seen Garden State BTW?

[strandinthewind]

And some people do use their depression as a crutch, "oh feel sorry for me, I'm depressed" bleh. I'm not saying that's not true. It just bugs me that meds are so demonized when they are so helpful to so many.

That said, I am glad that you did not listen to that doctor. It's rediculous to go on meds because you feel too good! Did he want to make you a zombie? Geesh. Have you seen Garden State BTW?

Yes and it was a good flic. Also, I did not mean to imply that all use their depression that way - many are seriously afflicted and their only hope is the meds. I know you know that - but just clarifying here for those that may have not known it :cool:

[sparky]

Well, I avoided medication for a loong time but I just couldn't pull out of it. Believe me, I really tried hard. And every time I slipped back into the abyss I felt it was a personal failure. But your moods are chemical and this chemistry is largely inherited, more out of your control than people would like to admit. You're born with how happy you'll be pretty much. So, again, you're lucky and I'm glad you don't have a mood disorder! :xoxo:

I have had bouts of depression on and off all my life. Sometimes they are like the sniffles and other times they are like the flu. The minor ones are now things I consider normal. Everyone gets bummed out sometimes. But, I have had a few times that were pretty bad. Never did the medication. I just exercise like a madman and go to my shrink twice a week and that seems to kick my ass out of it. The other things that snap me out of it are helping other people and playing with my parrots. Well, that and writing. Great suffering, great art, right ?

As an adult (over 21), I have only had two of these bad times and they were both related to life events.

I sure know a lot of people who take medication these days though. I think it is disturbing and wonder what is up with the epidemic of anxiety and depression. Sometimes I think it is more of an epidemic of people afraid to have negative feelings. There is such a stigma associated with being ANYTHING other than HAPPY all the time. This is not to discount authentic depression because I know that monster and it SUCKS.

[xdreamsunwindx]

Prozac is the stuff that made me gain weight and I wasn't having any of that. :laugh:

Heh. That's weird, I'm on Prozac and I'm losing weight. Hm.

[estranged4life]

And some people do use their depression as a crutch, "oh feel sorry for me, I'm depressed" bleh. I'm not saying that's not true. It just bugs me that meds are so demonized when they are so helpful to so many.


I have been through lately ("Hey God, I'm still here....") I have yet to feel sorry for myself. I was in too much shock to be depressed, And that shock of late has turned to anger...Thus stress.

I actually feel great today (I've actually slept more than 6 hours)...So I guess the lexpro has worked 'its wonders' on me.

[tynan88]

It seems like a different culture with mood drugs in America, anti-depressants are given out to people here as a real last resort.

I don't think it is some kind of epidemic of anxiety today either, it is just now people are aware of things to help them, so they will use them, whether that is a bad thing or not is a personaly choice, but yer, I think it is the same with ADD, it isn't a new thing, but it has only recently been labelled and it allows for better treatment...

The question is are the drugs always necessary?

[SuzeQuze]

It seems like a different culture with mood drugs in America, anti-depressants are given out to people here as a real last resort.

I don't think it is some kind of epidemic of anxiety today either, it is just now people are aware of things to help them, so they will use them, whether that is a bad thing or not is a personaly choice, but yer, I think it is the same with ADD, it isn't a new thing, but it has only recently been labelled and it allows for better treatment...

The question is are the drugs always necessary?

Actually, anxiety and depression are becoming an epidemic. The rates keep rising and rising. This may be due to a great disconnect from the community. People do not feel part of a larger whole so much anymore. We feel like we're on our own.

No, the drugs aren't always necessary. I was in therapy for a year with no relief from my depression before I started. A really great book about all of this is Feeling Good by David Burns. It explains when antidepressants are necessary and when they may not be.

[SuzeQuze]

I have had bouts of depression on and off all my life. Sometimes they are like the sniffles and other times they are like the flu. The minor ones are now things I consider normal. Everyone gets bummed out sometimes. But, I have had a few times that were pretty bad. Never did the medication. I just exercise like a madman and go to my shrink twice a week and that seems to kick my ass out of it. The other things that snap me out of it are helping other people and playing with my parrots. Well, that and writing. Great suffering, great art, right ?

As an adult (over 21), I have only had two of these bad times and they were both related to life events.

I sure know a lot of people who take medication these days though. I think it is disturbing and wonder what is up with the epidemic of anxiety and depression. Sometimes I think it is more of an epidemic of people afraid to have negative feelings. There is such a stigma associated with being ANYTHING other than HAPPY all the time. This is not to discount authentic depression because I know that monster and it SUCKS.

Thank you for sharing all of this. I will try to get off of them at some point. It's just that I was depressed for like 10 years before I realized that I was. I was moderately depressed which I thought was a normal state. It wasn't until I was extremely depressed that I sought treatment and realized I had been living in black and white for years. The medications keep me from going really low. I still get sad and low but rarely "depressed".

[tynan88]

Actually, anxiety and depression are becoming an epidemic. The rates keep rising and rising. This may be due to a great disconnect from the community. People do not feel part of a larger whole so much anymore. We feel like we're on our own.

No, the drugs aren't always necessary. I was in therapy for a year with no relief from my depression before I started. A really great book about all of this is Feeling Good by David Burns. It explains when antidepressants are necessary and when they may not be.

I think it really must be an American thing and I think it has a lot to do with the media, I suffer sever depression at times and have therapy, but again I ask are there actually more people with mental illness such as anxiety (yes I class it as a mental illness) or is there more awareness and so more people are able to seek treatment, I guess that's what I am trying to say.

[SuzeQuze]

I think it really must be an American thing and I think it has a lot to do with the media, I suffer sever depression at times and have therapy, but again I ask are there actually more people with mental illness such as anxiety (yes I class it as a mental illness) or is there more awareness and so more people are able to seek treatment, I guess that's what I am trying to say.

According to this http://www.mydd.com/story/2005/3/14/15253/7082 the answer is yes, Americans do have more mental illness.

[strandinthewind]

According to this http://www.mydd.com/story/2005/3/14/15253/7082 the answer is yes, Americans do have more mental illness.


I heard an interesting speaker last weekend who suggested that the reason Americans have more is because commercialism preys on that that. We are constantly told via suggestion that our lives would be better if we had this product, the underlying message being something is wrong with your life. Anyway - food for thought.

[tynan88]

According to this http://www.mydd.com/story/2005/3/14/15253/7082 the answer is yes, Americans do have more mental illness.

Thanks for that, I find it interesting really. I personally feel it would have a lot to do with the media but I am not an expert so I don't know real stats but it wouldn't surprise me if it has increased in particular in the last four years.

[SuzeQuze]

Thanks for that, I find it interesting really. I personally feel it would have a lot to do with the media but I am not an expert so I don't know real stats but it wouldn't surprise me if it has increased in particular in the last four years.

I think this is true, and what strand said is part of it. We constantly think we don't have enough, aren't thin enough, don't look good enough, etc. It's something to battle every day. Damn media. A commercial says, "you feel too fat, don't you? well, we have the solution." And we're just bombarded with that.

[estranged4life]

I think this is true, and what strand said is part of it. We constantly think we don't have enough, aren't thin enough, don't look good enough, etc. It's something to battle every day. Damn media. A commercial says, "you feel too fat, don't you? well, we have the solution." And we're just bombarded with that.

how many people are suffering post-traumatic stress disorder from watching and/or surviving 9-11?

I agree with the media saturation of that Americans have to look perfect, That all females have to have that supermodel figure with Playboy playmate cleavage while all men should have Chippendale dancers bodies & abs...What a big steamin' pile of cow chips!!!

Anyways, I'm in the minority when it comes to being on medication, I'm on anxiety meds to calm me down from becoming, dare I say, rather homicidal...I have a rather short & quite the explosive temper :eek:

[SuzeQuze]

how many people are suffering post-traumatic stress disorder from watching and/or surviving 9-11?

I agree with the media saturation of that Americans have to look perfect, That all females have to have that supermodel figure with Playboy playmate cleavage while all men should have Chippendale dancers bodies & abs...What a big steamin' pile of cow chips!!!

Anyways, I'm in the minority when it comes to being on medication, I'm on anxiety meds to calm me down from becoming, dare I say, rather homicidal...I have a rather short & quite the explosive temper :eek:

Or those returning from war. And feeling homicidal in your circumstance is probably "normal" although I'm glad you're not going to go out and off anybody. For your sake that is, cuz jail or death stinks.

[estranged4life]

And feeling homicidal in your circumstance is probably "normal" although I'm glad you're not going to go out and off anybody. For your sake that is, cuz jail or death stinks.

never say never...Right??? :rolleyes:




Just yankin' yer chain :lol: :laugh: :lol:

[SuzeQuze]

never say never...Right??? :rolleyes:




Just yankin' yer chain :lol: :laugh: :lol:

I'm trying to encourage you to steer away from that. :laugh:

[estranged4life]

I'm trying to encourage you to steer away from that. :laugh:

that's why I am back to trading music :laugh:

[SuzeQuze]

that's why I am back to trading music :laugh:

:thumbsup: :laugh: Music rules.

[amber]

I heard an interesting speaker last weekend who suggested that the reason Americans have more is because commercialism preys on that that. We are constantly told via suggestion that our lives would be better if we had this product, the underlying message being something is wrong with your life. Anyway - food for thought.
Food for thought?! Of course that's true, I've been food for studying that since jr. highschool. It's also the way we successfully spread capitalism to other (underdeveloped) nations, is through TV's Advertising. "buy our ****! You need it! It will make your life better!" :rolleyes:

[The Tower]

I have had bouts of depression on and off all my life. Sometimes they are like the sniffles and other times they are like the flu. The minor ones are now things I consider normal. Everyone gets bummed out sometimes. But, I have had a few times that were pretty bad. Never did the medication. I just exercise like a madman and go to my shrink twice a week and that seems to kick my ass out of it. The other things that snap me out of it are helping other people and playing with my parrots. Well, that and writing. Great suffering, great art, right ?

As an adult (over 21), I have only had two of these bad times and they were both related to life events.

I sure know a lot of people who take medication these days though. I think it is disturbing and wonder what is up with the epidemic of anxiety and depression. Sometimes I think it is more of an epidemic of people afraid to have negative feelings. There is such a stigma associated with being ANYTHING other than HAPPY all the time. This is not to discount authentic depression because I know that monster and it SUCKS.
I had a MAJOR nervous breakdown and thought I was depressed, but in the end I believe that I wasn't depressed- it was just that my life sucked at the time and only time (and therapy) could cure it.

I think doctors these days way overprescribe anti-depressant medication without proper diagnosis- with disastrous results. I was originally prescribed Effexor which literally froze my mind and body. Getting off that stuff was brutal. My doctor switched me to Lexapro, because the side effects from Effexor were so overwhelming. Lexapro seemed to work at first, but after taking it for awhile I started to feel "off planet" and slightly crazy. When it got to be too much, I just ditched the stuff, which is not good. Coming off that stuff was excruciating. It might have been easier if my medical insurance had not lapsed and I could have worked with my doctor to wean off the medicine (which what you're supposed to do)- but I was absolutely barking stars at the time.

All I can say is that I really feel for people who are unhappy and/or suffer from depression. I feel very lucky to be as happy as I am now. Working with a good therapist is an awesome, awesome experience and I highly recommend it for people who are feeling low.

[eclipse]

Hi all my friends...
I have been reading back on many of these posts and I can honestly say that I can see each side of the medicate/not medicate debate. I enjoyed the broken leg analogy, my doctor expained it very simply. If you are a depressive personality, it is like your brain is wired to feel/become overwhelmed/overly sensitive and negative/frightened/anxious and nervous/ all at once .. it is absolute and very real (at the moment), and it is not an feeling/emotion action that you can talk yourself out of. If it were, I don't think that so many meds would be prescribed- I am in my middle 40's and I am a female- I grew up with the culture of lets try weed-pills-booze-whatever...It was just a step to adulthood in those days (I am not stating that it is correct or acceptable behavior) but...it was what it was. I think it also helped to accept pills as normal behavior. If you have a headache you have 2 choices. 1. Take an aspirin or 2. Wait it out, be in pain and it will eventually go away. I am the Number 1 type thinker. If something is going to make me feel better-Why not?


Anyway this is turning into preaching, and that is not my goal- I just wanted to add that each and every one is different and if something works for a person (whether it is primal screaming- yoga-lexapro-wine-therapists....whatever)
Try and support that your friends need help dealing with issues that for whatever reason you can deal with -without any assistance.
You are lucky...
~~eclipse~~
now I am going to go have a glass of wine and a valium cuz you guys are stressing me out :eek: :eek: :xoxo: :xoxo: kidding!!

[jannieC]

I too have noticed the overwhelming amount of doctors prescribing anti-depressants these days. Most of the time, your family doctor will prescribe you one if you say you're feeling depressed.

On the one hand, as a psych grad (and someone is hopes to be a therapist), I know that these meds can be life savers for people who are truly clinically depressed. On the other, I feel like we are a society who wants to take the easy way out and pop a pill because we're feeling badly. Psych meds are no joke, and can be very difficult to come off of, which can be very dangerous. Personally, I think a lot of people could do really well with some good old-fashioned therapy occassionally. But who wants to deal with that when you can take a pill to make your worries go away... :shrug:

[SuzeQuze]

I had a MAJOR nervous breakdown and thought I was depressed, but in the end I believe that I wasn't depressed- it was just that my life sucked at the time and only time (and therapy) could cure it.

I think doctors these days way overprescribe anti-depressant medication without proper diagnosis- with disastrous results. I was originally prescribed Effexor which literally froze my mind and body. Getting off that stuff was brutal. My doctor switched me to Lexapro, because the side effects from Effexor were so overwhelming. Lexapro seemed to work at first, but after taking it for awhile I started to feel "off planet" and slightly crazy. When it got to be too much, I just ditched the stuff, which is not good. Coming off that stuff was excruciating. It might have been easier if my medical insurance had not lapsed and I could have worked with my doctor to wean off the medicine (which what you're supposed to do)- but I was absolutely barking stars at the time.

All I can say is that I really feel for people who are unhappy and/or suffer from depression. I feel very lucky to be as happy as I am now. Working with a good therapist is an awesome, awesome experience and I highly recommend it for people who are feeling low.

Well, there are 2 types of depression, situational and chronic, you had situational. This type goes away after traumatic event passes. I've had both.

As eclipse stated (thank you), the chronic kind is hard wired into your brain. Yes the brain is plastic and you can make changes. But only within reason, within the framework you've been given.

I'm glad that you are feeling good now Tower!

[GateandGarden]

Working with a good therapist is an awesome, awesome experience and I highly recommend it for people who are feeling low.I couldn't agree more, though I've discovered that good ones can be hard to find. But when you do find them I think it can make all the difference. :nod:

[The Tower]

I'm glad that you are feeling good now Tower!
Thank you very much, honey. :xoxo: Becoming a happy person was hard work, but for me it was just like the song

"On a clear day... rise and look around you
And you'll see who you are..."

Clarity is a wonderful thing and I am very proud to be happy after all these years.

I couldn't agree more, though I've discovered that good ones can be hard to find. But when you do find them I think it can make all the difference.
I was very lucky. I had been in therapy as a teenager and it was horrible. I just happened to plop into my therapist- the GLBT Center just assigned me to him and it worked out wonderfully. One of the best days was the day I realized that I didn't need to go to therapy anymore. It was an awesome feeling, that's for sure.

[strandinthewind]

. . . I was very lucky. I had been in therapy as a teenager and it was horrible. I just happened to plop into my therapist- the GLBT Center just assigned me to him and it worked out wonderfully. One of the best days was the day I realized that I didn't need to go to therapy anymore. It was an awesome feeling, that's for sure.

Like Bette Davis as Charlotte Vale in "Now Voyager" when she realizes while speaking to her domineering mother "I'm not afraid - I'm not afraid" - I swoon with happiness for her every time I see that scene :cool:

[skcin]

I too have noticed the overwhelming amount of doctors prescribing anti-depressants these days. Most of the time, your family doctor will prescribe you one if you say you're feeling depressed.

On the one hand, as a psych grad (and someone is hopes to be a therapist), I know that these meds can be life savers for people who are truly clinically depressed. On the other, I feel like we are a society who wants to take the easy way out and pop a pill because we're feeling badly. Psych meds are no joke, and can be very difficult to come off of, which can be very dangerous. Personally, I think a lot of people could do really well with some good old-fashioned therapy occassionally. But who wants to deal with that when you can take a pill to make your worries go away... :shrug:

You took the words right out of my mouth, Jannie. Great post!

There are people who are seriously depressed & need meds, whether it be temporarily to get them through a tough time (Brian) or long term for chronic depression (Suze). Then there are people who feel sad, or blah, or whatever so rather than try other methods to make themselves feel better (therapy, exercise, yoga, meditation, whatever) they would prefer to pop a pill. Then they can't figure out why "these pills aren't working."

When I worked psych, some of my patients used to have a bad day & come to us crying "I need a med increase, I need a prn dose, etc." They were always shocked when the psychiatrist would tell them "You know what? It's OK to FEEL something. It's NORMAL to be sad sometimes. It's not always a bad thing!"

You guys used the "broken leg" analogy, I'll use the back pain analogy. It's easier for people to take painkillers than it is to go to therapy, get some exercise, lose weight, stretch daily, learn & use proper body mechanics, etc. Not to say some people don't NEED pain meds for serious injury, but it drives me nuts that my 55 year old FIL can't understand why his back still hurts, even though he weighs over 300 pounds. :mad:

IMO, general practitioners should NOT be prescribing antidepressants. Most of their education about these drugs comes from drug companies & medical journals. Mental health is usually NOT their specialty. They should be prescribed in conjunction with some sort of psych eval, whether it be by a therapist, a psychologist, a psychiatrist, someone with specific mental health knowledge. JMO.

[Mad4stevie]

I couldn't agree more, though I've discovered that good ones can be hard to find. But when you do find them I think it can make all the difference. :nod:

I agree 100%. :nod:

I have had both a good one and a bad one. IMO, bad therapists acutally contribute to the problem because they give a false sense that you are getting better/healing, when all you are doing is wasting time and money on someone who just regurgetates what you say instead of providing intelligent insight into problems.

Good therpists don't take any B.S. and will be gently confrontational if you are in denial about issues in your life.

I had been on Zoloft as a anti-anxiety medication. I stopped taking it about 6 months ago because I felt that I was over medicated. My anxiety/depression was situational, and once the situational stressor had been dealt with, there was no longer a need for the medication.

In my opinion, medication should always be coupled with talk therapy. Even if you are on anti-depressants long term due to a chronic depression, therapy does wonders with developing healthy coping skills.

I think people have always had the problems that bring on anxiety and depression. The difference is that in this day and age, it is more acceptable to discuss it. In my parent's generation, you didn't admit any problems to your own family members, and you certainly didn't discuss problems with "outsiders". This very idea kept me from seeking out counseling initially because my parents had always demonized therapy and medication (i.e. you were "crazy"); I had two full blown panic attacks that finally forced me into the doctor and therapist. Now, I am more emotionally healthy than most people in my family :)

[jannieC]

When I worked psych, some of my patients used to have a bad day & come to us crying "I need a med increase, I need a prn dose, etc." They were always shocked when the psychiatrist would tell them "You know what? It's OK to FEEL something. It's NORMAL to be sad sometimes. It's not always a bad thing!"

This is so true. But we don't WANT to feel these things. We're told that we don't have to have these feelings, that we can take medications to numb us out. Please understand that this is not aimed at people who are suffering from true depression or anxiety.

In my opinion, medication should always be coupled with talk therapy. Even if you are on anti-depressants long term due to a chronic depression, therapy does wonders with developing healthy coping skills.

Unfortunately, people or so busy or just don't want to be bothered with therapy. Therapy can be very painful (not saying this as a potential therapist, but as someone who has gone through it), but it's so important to work through the issues that have you struggling. I'm so glad that you were able to get help, panic attacks are absolutely awful.

AnNyway, sorry to ramble about this- it's my passion, though. xo

[Mad4stevie]

Unfortunately, people or so busy or just don't want to be bothered with therapy. Therapy can be very painful (not saying this as a potential therapist, but as someone who has gone through it), but it's so important to work through the issues that have you struggling. I'm so glad that you were able to get help, panic attacks are absolutely awful.

AnNyway, sorry to ramble about this- it's my passion, though. xo

Yes, therapy is painful . . . I have found out that it is easier to go through it knowing that the suffering will eventually be replaced with healthier coping skills. There is freedom in dealing with your own sh*t. :nod:

[golddustwoman77]

Cool! I just might! What year did he graduate? Even though I mainly have practiced in NYC, I graduated from UAB and have lived here for about 9 months now.


He graduated from SCO in 1995. If you go to the Tennessee Optometric Association Conventions for hours or SECO in Atlanta. You have definitely meet him. He is very active in both. His name is Kurt. It will be such a "small world thing," if you know him. :)

[Stephanie]

He graduated from SCO in 1995. If you go to the Tennessee Optometric Association Conventions for hours or SECO in Atlanta. You have definitely meet him. He is very active in both. His name is Kurt. It will be such a "small world thing," if you know him. :)

I don't think I know him but I am sure I have seen his pic on a brochure or newsletter or something at some point. I graduated from UAB in 2002. I always get my hours at the PCON symposium in NYC. They are very liberal at counting attendance :) and I used to live near the site. Now it is a good way to visit my friends.

If he ever needs to pick up easy hours when he is done being prez of the association, that is the best way to go IMO.

[SuzeQuze]

I agree 100%. :nod:

I have had both a good one and a bad one. IMO, bad therapists acutally contribute to the problem because they give a false sense that you are getting better/healing, when all you are doing is wasting time and money on someone who just regurgetates what you say instead of providing intelligent insight into problems.

Good therpists don't take any B.S. and will be gently confrontational if you are in denial about issues in your life.

I had been on Zoloft as a anti-anxiety medication. I stopped taking it about 6 months ago because I felt that I was over medicated. My anxiety/depression was situational, and once the situational stressor had been dealt with, there was no longer a need for the medication.

In my opinion, medication should always be coupled with talk therapy. Even if you are on anti-depressants long term due to a chronic depression, therapy does wonders with developing healthy coping skills.

I think people have always had the problems that bring on anxiety and depression. The difference is that in this day and age, it is more acceptable to discuss it. In my parent's generation, you didn't admit any problems to your own family members, and you certainly didn't discuss problems with "outsiders". This very idea kept me from seeking out counseling initially because my parents had always demonized therapy and medication (i.e. you were "crazy"); I had two full blown panic attacks that finally forced me into the doctor and therapist. Now, I am more emotionally healthy than most people in my family :)

Yes I agree regarding meds and talk therapy and that a good therapist is really important. I had a horrible therapist when I was young and I didn't know it until I got a good one, my current one. Although I think at times she's too easy on me, however, she is extremely insightful and has helped me immensely.

I finally had to get help when I had a breakdown about my impending nuptuals which I could not go through with. I had my first panic attack ever before that and then became extremely depressed. I didn't want to go through my feelings because I never thought I'd come through the other side, but I did. I had to hit bottom first though unfortunately.

And yes people have always had problems with depression and anxiety but it really is getting worse. I too am healthier than most (all) of my family. :wavey:

[Mad4stevie]

I finally had to get help when I had a breakdown about my impending nuptuals which I could not go through with. I had my first panic attack ever before that and then became extremely depressed. I didn't want to go through my feelings because I never thought I'd come through the other side, but I did. I had to hit bottom first though unfortunately.

And yes people have always had problems with depression and anxiety but it really is getting worse. I too am healthier than most (all) of my family. :wavey:

That is interesting, because that is why I first entered therapy! I called off my wedding with one week to go . . . needless to say, I had some avoidance issues :laugh: :laugh:

Thankfully, figuring out why I chose to cope that way has helped me in the long run, and of course, led to many more issues to confront :shocked: :laugh:

[SuzeQuze]

That is interesting, because that is why I first entered therapy! I called off my wedding with one week to go . . . needless to say, I had some avoidance issues :laugh: :laugh:

Thankfully, figuring out why I chose to cope that way has helped me in the long run, and of course, led to many more issues to confront :shocked: :laugh:

Well, I have heard that many people go through with their wedding even when they feel that way and I think that would have been worse! :eek: I had 6 mos to go but all the plans had been laid. Including a non-refundable dress. I donated it to a cancer charity. That whole thing was so painful. I'm glad I'm not there anymore. :nod:

[Mad4stevie]

Well, I have heard that many people go through with their wedding even when they feel that way and I think that would have been worse! :eek: I had 6 mos to go but all the plans had been laid. Including a non-refundable dress. I donated it to a cancer charity. That whole thing was so painful. I'm glad I'm not there anymore. :nod:

Yes, I have NEVER regretted my decision to call off the wedding. With a week to go, everything was bought and paid for, but you can't put a price on a bad marriage, so I don't get too upset about all that cash down the drain.