Advisable to take antidepressants without doctor or therapist? What to do
I started taking antidepressants end of last year when I was seeing a primary care doctor and a therapist for depression. But the meds didn't seem to be working so the doc referred me to psychiatrists with the assumption that I would go. But psychiatrists cost a lot and then I was starting to feel better anyway so I didn't go. I have been continuing on bupropion, which was the last thing he prescribed. He likely thinks I went to the psych, so I haven't had any follow-ups with him since then. I still have one refill left and three refills of a lower dosage he prescribed earlier of the same med, so technically I could go on four more months without having to see any doctor. Is that a bad idea? I don't have many side effects, just lots of tremors and anxiety that goes away if I skip a dose. I was also seeing a therapist but ran out of 'free sessions' and can't really afford to pay her fee out of pocket so I stopped going. I don't feel exactly good or normal really but I feel like it's a lot more manageable than it was a few months ago. Like suicidal thoughts have calmed down and I'm eating and I'm not crying daily anymore. I have more good days than I did before and lows aren't as low, so I don't feel as desperate for help anymore. So basically now I'm seeing neither person but still taking the meds. And I don't have insurance so I'd like to minimize costs. Would it be reasonable to continue like I have been the past two months without a psychiatrist or a therapist but still taking the antidepressant, or should i find a therapist and continue meds, or should i find a psychiatrist?
@cherryIcecream8299
I don't think anyone wants to advise you on something so critical here.
There are medical forums out there.
I suspect antidepressants are designed to be taken for extended periods of time, so a few months won't matter, probably. What I would do is start saving money to see a mental health professional, probably a psychiatrist because they are the ones who sort drugs out, and aim to see one in the next few months.
What you do is up to you.
@cherryIcecream8299
While antidepressants may last a while and even with no side effects, it may not be safe to take them without a doctor. If you dont want to visit the doctor, you should at least give them a call and make sure taking them will be safe.
Personally i think it is beneficial to have the support of a doctor behind you. When your meds do run out you could be left in limbo, it might be worth planning ahead so that you have support in place. Unfortunately i don't know anything about private health care but i wouldn't leave yourself stuck with no meds or support. Take Care