Antidepressants for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome.

My underlying depression comes from losses I keep experiencing including my breasts but not just my breasts.  Its a whole lot of stuff.  If you lost your hair because of chemo it should be seen as a badge that you are a warrior.  I did not have to have chemo but had I had it I would probably be a basket case.  Between being bald, overweight and flat chested it would have all been too much for me and I would have to hide under my covers until things got better.  I know when I see a woman without her hair I try not to stare but I do feel empathy for her because I know why she has no hair.  Of course, when I see a woman with a shaved head that looks really good, I think "God I wish I could do that!"

Hang in there Leggy - sooner or later it will get better - anyway, that's what I tell myself.  Hugs.

I have P.T.S.D. and I take Paxil.  And I don't care what anyone says. My oncologist advised me to take something. No problem. I am also a recovering alcoholic.  There are many controversial opinions regarding taking medication among the recovering community.  But I believe that if I am not sane in the first place then how can I stay functional enough to recover?! It is very unfortunate that in this day and time there remain so many people who still lack education and compassion.

WOW some of our doctors are either related or went to the same NON compassionate school!

When I asked my primary doc- she did not even pursue the subject of depression. I went away really more depressed AND angry. I wrote her a letter over the weekend and faxed it to her office- got her attention but she still acted as if it was NOT her problem. She gave me a 1 month Rx for paxil stating "I need to see you in 14 days as the FDA mandates it" Why couldn't she say "I am concerned about you and need to see you in 2 weeks to make sure you are all right"? Because she really doesn't want to address this and referred me to a shrink- which I will gladly go see. I just think she is naive and immature. good for cholesterol, not so good with "people".

I believe these feelings are normal and was reassured of that when a friends father (old school doc) stated  ca and bmx were equal to a huge trauma and we should not be surprised by our feelings.