Hi! Just joined :)

[Neenarooni]

Hello, my name is Nina. I have been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder. Lately, my anxiety has gotten better after getting a job in customer service. My depression is at bay right now, but it goes through cycles, so I know it will come back. I currently take Pristiq and Abilify. I am going to school part time for Art Therapy and would like to use creative expression to help others who have mental illness as I have found that it helped me tremendously. Anyway, I wish you all the best of luck in dealing with your anxiety. I know how difficult a journey this is. Depression and anxiety has consumed my life many times to the point of being suicidal. If any of you need someone to talk to, I am here to be understanding and would never pass judgement. <3

[tailspin]

Hi Neenarooni, Welcome! Love your avatar! Is that a picture of yours? It's very cool you're doing Art Therapy. Glad it's helping you so much.

That's an interesting combination of medication you are on. I have depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, with some specific phobias and panic attacks thrown in. I'm currently needing to switch to a new medication, or a new combination of meds. Over the years I've been on all the SSRI's, as well as Effexor. They help a bit, but not enough.

Did you try a lot of other medications before starting your current regimen? Did you start off on Pristiq and then add Abilify? I was thinking of adding Abilify to my current anti-depressant (Lexapro), so I'm especially curious about that drug.

Sorry if I'm asking too many questions. I just really have medication on my mind right now!

Wishing you the best!

[Neenarooni]

Thanks for the welcome! My avatar is just an artwork that I like, but I forget the name of the artist. It's no problem, I will be happy to answer your med questions. I have taken several antidepressants before getting to this combo-including celexa, zoloft, wellbutrin, and benzos. Pristiq is really working for me and the abilify has helped as well. I think abilify is great if your depression tends to go through cycles and is chronic like mine. I can't say for sure if abilify will help you because everyone is different of course, but you can always ask your psychiatrist. Good luck getting on the right meds!

[tailspin]

Thanks for the welcome! My avatar is just an artwork that I like, but I forget the name of the artist. It's no problem, I will be happy to answer your med questions. I have taken several antidepressants before getting to this combo-including celexa, zoloft, wellbutrin, and benzos. Pristiq is really working for me and the abilify has helped as well. I think abilify is great if your depression tends to go through cycles and is chronic like mine. I can't say for sure if abilify will help you because everyone is different of course, but you can always ask your psychiatrist. Good luck getting on the right meds!

Thank you so much, Neenarooni!

[NeverToo...Fear]

Hey, a fellow Floridian ! ;)

Hi, Nina.. glad you've decided to join AF! I hope you like it here, and yes, your avatar is quite beautiful and bright. :) Pretty awesome you are doing something to help others and that it helps you in the process... total win win :)