Is Depakote safe for managing multiple mental health issues?
Hi doctor,
I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. I was taking 2 mg of Abilify in the morning for bipolar, Hydroxyzine for anxiety, and Mirtazapine for depression and insomnia. Hydroxyzine has been working wonders for my anxiety but I was still feeling locked up inside so my prescription management person got rid of the Mirtazapine before prescribing a new pill she proceeded to ask if we had heard of multiple different others before finally stopping at the one we did not know. She ended up prescribing me Depakote which I have not taken yet because when my husband and I asked about side effects all she listed was nausea and drowsiness. After picking up the prescription and reading the pamphlet I found other common side effects such as hair loss, weight gain, weight loss, depression, and others. After all my research I am starting to think my best option is to stick with the spirit in the morning and the Hydroxyzine for anxiety and just smoke weed to help with the other illnesses. I have four kids under the age of six so I really cannot handle the side effects. After not taking medications at night (other than for anxiety). I feel like I am me again. My psychiatrist looks at my using marijuana as a dependency but it helps me feel more at ease with no side effects. I live in a place where marijuana is now legal. Also, I never received the blood test you are supposed to get before you go on Depakote. So my question is do I start taking the Depakote and suffer the consequences or do I just stick with what I am doing and be happy?
Please help.
13 May 2024 - 1 min read
What could be the possible cause of severe pain and a burning sensation during sex?
Hello doctor,
I am a 16-year-old female. I have been sexually active since the age of 13, and I lost my virginity at age 15. The last attempt at having intercourse with my boyfriend was very painful. I experienced an intense burning sensation and it was difficult for me to enjoy it like I used to. I do not know if my age would have anything to do with the pain I am experiencing during sex. I looked up possible causes and the symptoms of vaginismus matched the physical description of my problem, but I am not sure if that is for sure because it was self-diagnosed. Is there any way that I could treat this condition?
Please help.
11 May 2024 - 1 min read
Can witnessing trauma at a young age change behavior?
Hello doctor,
I just want to know what kind of mental illness my fiance has. When she was 11, her mom's fiance shot her in front of my fiance and when he turned the shot gun on himself he told her to look. I just want to know if that could be a reason for why she acts a little weird and off sometimes. She talked about her mother a lot too. She misses her.
10 May 2024 - 1 min read
What is the treatment for anxiety?
Hello doctor,
I suppose I am suffering from anxiety. Also, I get scared of certain people or situations where I feel that I will be judged. Always, I think that people are judging me on whatever I do. So, I get anxious. This is a pattern since long. I understand that I can overcome it, as I find that there are few reference points in my memory where I have handled those situations well. I think I need help now as it interferes in my day to day life. Although I am able to manage it till now and am leading a good life, I think that I can do much better at work and relationships and will be able to enjoy life.
10 May 2024 - 1 min read
How to get rid of social phobia, insecurity, and anger?
Hello doctor,
My 26 years old son has social phobia, insecurity, anger, adamancy, irritation, unsatisfaction, doubts, and loneliness. Symptoms are present for many years but for the last two years, it has aggravated a lot. He does not leave the house or meet people, never speaks and blames me for everything. He behaves like a kid. He never helps anyone nor does he help anyone. Stays away from sympathy and love. Please advise me the treatment.
09 May 2024 - 1 min read
