Chapter 1: The Beginning of My Struggles

From a young age, I have grappled with feelings of depression and anxiety. During my final year of high school, I sought help from a psychiatrist who diagnosed me with persistent depressive disorder along with anxiety leading to panic disorder. This diagnosis was a double-edged sword; it confirmed my struggles but also imposed a necessity for a treatment plan aimed at "curing" me.

I was prescribed Zoloft and Ativan for a brief two months—perhaps not long enough for these medications to take full effect. My experience with these drugs was far from positive.

> It's crucial to acknowledge that mental health is an incredibly serious issue. Many individuals rely on antidepressants and other medications as essential components of their treatment. I am not discouraging anyone from seeking the help they need, but I feel compelled to share my personal journey.

During that time, I felt almost emotionless. I remember telling someone I barely knew that I loved them, which was completely out of character for me. This numbness and disconnection from reality made me feel like a stranger in my own life.

Ultimately, I decided to stop taking these medications abruptly after just two months. I wouldn't recommend this approach to anyone; it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.

Upon graduating high school, I turned to alternative remedies. I began taking an ashwagandha supplement, known for its ability to reduce stress and calm the mind. This herb proved to be a significant help in managing my anxiety.

Additionally, I discovered that CBD products offered substantial benefits for my mental well-being. While these alternatives may not be suitable for everyone, I genuinely believe that cannabis can provide relief for those dealing with certain mental health challenges. Research is increasingly revealing how medicinal cannabis can positively impact psychiatric patients.

The effectiveness of these two alternatives was remarkable compared to my experience with Zoloft and Ativan.

In this video, Estée Lalonde shares her personal experiences with antidepressants, discussing the impact they had on her mental health and exploring alternative solutions.

Chapter 2: A New Approach to Mental Wellness

After moving into my college dorm, I faced a pivotal choice: remain mired in despair due to my mental health issues or take proactive steps to alleviate my anxiety and depression. I chose the latter.

I began to prioritize my physical health and how I spent my time. My goal was to cultivate both physical strength and mental resilience. With determination, I established discipline in my life to achieve this.

I incorporated yoga into my daily routine and began weightlifting at the gym. This commitment to improving my physical health had a profound effect on my mental state.

It’s important to note that simply advising someone struggling with mental health to "just work out" is seldom effective. Improvement must come from within; the individual must genuinely want to better their own health.

My own experience during high school illustrated this. My parents offered verbal support for my mental health but lacked a true understanding of its impact on me personally. They suggested that exercise could alleviate my depression, and while they were correct, their words often pushed me further away from the gym. It wasn’t until I gained my independence that I recognized the positive effects of physical activity on my anxiety and depression.

Taking time each day to focus on myself proved beneficial. I also explored my creative side through painting, art, and running my jewelry business. Pursuing my passions has sparked excitement for my future.

If you have a passion, I encourage you to embrace it! It could significantly enhance your quality of life.

Although antidepressants were not effective for me, they play a critical role for many others. My hope is not to dissuade anyone from seeking necessary medical help but to raise awareness about alternative treatments for those with manageable mental health issues.

Thank you for reading my story. I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with alternative medicine in the comments.

In this vlog, the creator shares their journey of taking antidepressants for two months, reflecting on the experiences and emotions tied to their mental health struggles.

Other articles regarding mental health:

How Yoga Enhances Mental Well-Being

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The unrealistic standards set by influencers contribute to a generation struggling with body image issues.

Growing Up Without Instagram

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Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and do not provide medical advice. This information is based on my personal experiences and research aimed at promoting awareness of alternative treatment options.