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Unknown userMember
Hi,
I am hoping someone may have some insight into my situation.
My partner who suffers depression has been on a pain medication which seem to have had the affect of his not requiring his anti depressants. Although this could have been just a result of recovery which could have happened anyway. Now there is concern for managing without these drugs as they can be addictive.
I am not sure what I can do to help.
In response to: Pain medication and depression.
Fancy_PantsSenior Contributor
Hi @Former-Member,
It sounds a little out of our depth medication wise.... am I right in understanding that your main concern is whether or not he will lapse back into depression if he stops the pain medication?? what did his doctor say regarding whether or not the pain meds are addictive? Maybe you can ask his doctor what he can do to reduce any possible side effects of stopping ie wean him off slowly?
Then perhaps discuss with the GP a "mental health plan" (up to 10 free/subsidised sessions) so your partner could access a psychologist if you see any symptoms of depression returning?
In response to: Re: Pain medication and depression.
Unknown userMember
In response to: Re: Pain medication and depression.
AppleblossomSenior Contributor
Has your husband discussed it with doctor or have concerns too? Has it been a sudden reduction?
It is possible either way .. try and talk it through with him.
In response to: Re: Pain medication and depression.
Unknown userMember
Hi yes there have been discussions. My partner is a bit of a control freak and there is only so much I can do. I am concerned that if his anxiety increases he will not take the meds and just try to live with the pain and discomfort which will increase the anxiety. Thanks for responding I really appreciate it.
In response to: Re: Pain medication and depression.
AppleblossomSenior Contributor
Dear @Former-Member
I'm in a slightly similar position to your husband. For 10 years I have been on anti depressants but kept it at a low dose .. or trying to come off .. probably too low a dose.
Since October my new GP put me on a higher dose than ever before. I am living a fairly full life and it has helped a lot that my anxiety is cushioned by the meds.
We all have to make our own decisions. I dont regret being on the low doses for so long ... for my personal history reasons I guess I believed it the right thing at the time.
Best wishes to you and your husband in dealing with this.
In response to: Re: Pain medication and depression.
Unknown userMember
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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