Since I was seven, I’ve been grappling with treatment-resistant depression, a condition that has dominated my existence. My childhood was spent locked away in my room, crying and praying for friends. I faced relentless bullying, and my emotional turmoil often manifested in self-harm. I’ve struggled with eating disorders, shouted hurtful words at my loved ones, and even attempted suicide, though I ended up just sleeping through it. I take seven different psychiatric medications to manage my condition, and last year, I even spent two weeks in an outpatient mental health facility.
One of my friends insists that I should ditch my medications and “discover my true self.” This suggestion is utterly absurd because my “true self” is often overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts. It’s my medications that help me be the parent I aspire to be, to love my family, and to lead a reasonably happy life. You wouldn’t tell a diabetic to stop taking insulin in hopes of embracing a more authentic life; why is it acceptable to suggest the same for someone dealing with mental illness? Insulin saves lives, just like my medications do.
Then there’s the idea that yoga is a cure-all. If that were true, the Beatles would never have stopped at “Sgt. Pepper’s.” While I acknowledge that some yoga poses can be beneficial, they won’t prevent me from spiraling into a dark place if I stop my medication. The last time I tried to reduce my meds, I became lethargic, irritable, and had major digestive issues. Yoga alone won’t resolve those challenges.
Others recommend light therapy, which is only effective for those with Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of depression linked to changes in light. Given that I sought outpatient help in June, it’s clear that my struggles are much deeper than that. Sunlight won’t magically heal my brain.
I’ve also been introduced to something called the Emotional Freedom Technique, which involves tapping on your body while focusing on your issues. They claim it’s a form of acupressure, but I remain skeptical. And please, don’t start with essential oils. I’m only familiar with lavender and patchouli, and the idea that they could cure anything from a broken leg to depression feels like a stretch. I need real, targeted interventions. Do you understand serotonin reuptake inhibitors and their role in brain chemistry? If not, please keep your unproven remedies to yourself.
Speaking of serotonin, did you know it’s produced in the gut? I’m well aware, and I’m not giving up my medications for some trendy diet. While gluten makes me feel unwell due to non-celiac gluten intolerance, it’s not a magical solution to my mental health challenges. I’ve tried various diets, including Paleo and elimination diets, but none have alleviated my distress.
And let’s not forget about exercise. Sure, I could be more active, but I recently hiked a mountain, so I can’t be that out of shape. While exercise is fantastic, it’s not a substitute for my medications. I used to run eight miles daily, yet I still battled feelings of isolation and inadequacy. If I stop taking my meds, I’ll still find myself struggling, regardless of my physical fitness.
So please, refrain from telling me to abandon my medications or suggest some far-fetched remedies you heard about online. I have treatment-resistant depression, and my medications work for me. When I’m on them, I can function. Without them, I struggle. So I’ll continue to take my prescribed medications, thank you very much.
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Summary
The article emphasizes the struggles of living with treatment-resistant depression and the importance of medication in managing the condition. It critiques common misconceptions regarding alternative therapies, such as yoga and dietary changes, highlighting the necessity of prescribed medications for effective treatment.