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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Why am I feeling numb from anti depressants?

    Related Topics
    Depression Mental Health
    I am a mother of 2 young children. I have had depression for 12 years (diagnosed). I am currently on Lovam 40mg daily and have been for 2 years now. Is it normal to feel a bit emotionaly “numb” on this medication?
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    Thanks

    Joe Gubbay

    Clinical Psychologist, Counsellor, Psychologist, Psychotherapist

    I have worked in public hospitals as well as private practice over the past 25 years. As a clinical psychologist I treat depression, social anxiety, … View Profile

    I'm assuming you mean Lovan (fluoxetine) which is the same as Prozac, an antidepressant in the class called serotonin specific reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).  If you haven't already, I'd take this up with your GP.  

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  • Grant Dempsey

    Counsellor

    With a passion to see people move forward and break free from the barriers holding them back, Grant is a highly experienced counsellor with over … View Profile

    Hi Ems, 

    That's great you are feeling better but I think the advice from Joe & Grant still applies. Pop along to your GP and let her/him know about the numbness. Also discuss with them about coming off medication and develop a strategy with them. I'm a big advocate of having a ‘battle plan’. Pick a period of ‘low stress’ time to start the process e.g., when it is quiet at work/home, after your friends wedding etc. I suggest to my clients that they include a trusted friend in the process, someone who is aware of your situation and is able to support you, take them along to the GP with you. Booking in a regular appointment with a counsellor is also a good idea as they are someone you can talk about your highs and lows with and can help you refine your strategies. Identify the areas you have struggled in previously and implement strategies to deal with those before you start the process. Be strategic, be determined, get support (especially from your GP) and good luck. 

    Grant.

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  • Dr Simon Easterbrook-Smith

    Health Professional

    My research interests include immunology and the mechanisms of amyloid formation. The latter has implications for people who are dealing with Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease … View Profile

    I think that the health professionals have offered you good advice. One additional thought:

    It might help if you saw a clinical psychologist. They can work with clients using non-pharmaceutical approaches - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are examples - there are others. In my case a combination of medication, CBT and ACT has helped me to stay in remission from clinical depression.

    All the best.

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