prozac nation

I made an appointment today with my physician to see if I could go on anti-depressants. I always said I wouldn't need to go on them, and that I wasn't depressed. After looking at the symptoms and talking to a counselor, I think I may actually be depressed.

Depression can be caused genetically, through personality traits (pessimist, worry, low self-esteem, etc.) and after tragedies. My mother has had depression since I was born. I have low self-esteem, anxiety, worry, stress. I have lost my brother, fathers, & friends. I think it is all a bit too much too handle, especially right now with school, court proceedings and just the regular stresses of life.

Symptoms of depression that I have: (all of them)

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
• Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Insomnia
• Appetite and/or weight loss
• Restlessness, irritability
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, and chronic pain

I have always been very apprehensive to use an anti-depressant, because people age 18-25 have the highest risk of suicide while on this medication. I need to do some research.