A friend of mine taking psychology advised I go to my doctor to check if I have major depressive disorder. I'm afraid of the consequences of doing so. If I do become diagnosed with major depressive disorder, wont that go on my records? I will never be able to become a counselor along with a list of other things I may be prohibited from. Im also afraid of taking any anti-depressants. This year, my doctor gave me some for a "dislocated hip." I had a severe reaction and passed out moments after taking them. Everyone I know who has taken anti-depressants says its a bad idea all around and youre better getting treatment without them. Im concerned they might take me to a clinic and force me to take medication because I am unable to make decisions on my own. Im not really suicidal, but I am not really taking care of myself either. Someone also told me they still use electroshock therapy. Im not keen on that. Im wondering if I am better off just getting self-help and working things out on my own. Its just that I've been an emotional mess since I was in elementary school. Ive graduated now and tried to stay positive and be happy, but I cannot deny I still am not good.
I'm scared to go to a doctor or take anti-depressants
I admire your courage for stating your view about anti-depressants. Questioning mainstream thinking and being in touch with your own views, are signs of strength and clarity in a person.As a therapist, I always tell my patients to avoid anti-depressants.Their effectiveness is in suppressing a person's mood and feelings. If someone does not know how they are feeling, then they will have more difficulty in understanding themselves, their uncertainties and hesitations, and overall, how they relate to others and what they expect from others.Anti-depressants mask how someone feels.In a crisis, temporarily taking anti-depressants may be helpful. If someone is so overwhelmed that they are not functioning, then suppressing unhappy feelings so that the person can get through a day, may be of benefit for a short while.Basically, respect and follow your own opinion about anti-depressants. Your view is shared by many. It is a minority opinion, and very valid.If you would like to shop for a therapist, ask the person on the phone, what their opinions are about anti-depressants.Ideally, you will eventually find a therapist who thinks in a way which is similar to you, or at least similar enough that you will have a sense that you are able to trust working with them on whatever you define as problematic.I hope you will have an easy and productive therapist search!