Medical Questions » Depression Questions » Question No. 251
| Question: | A week ago I saw a doctor to get some sleeping pills, and I ended up telling him off and walking out. I' m in the middle of a breakdown and can' t sleep or eat. I' m tired out, stressed and fed up. I hate my housing commission flat, and feel I can' t keep going any more. I need help. |
| Answer: | You may not be sleeping because you are depressed, and it is always better to treat the cause of the problem (the depression) rather than the effect (the lack of sleep). Your doctor may have tried to do this, but if you are unable to trust or communicate with your doctor, it is time to change to a doctor with whom you can develop a good rapport.
Treatment of your problem will involve a long discussion about the concerns that are affecting your lifestyle, and probably some medication to help you control your depression and prevent your ' breakdown' worsening. This medication will usually allow you to sleep better as well, but may take a week or two to work effectively.
Sleeping tablets only cover up the underlying problem, may be addictive, and can worsen the depression. There is no doubt that you do need assistance with your condition, and a GP who is sympathetic but firm about the correct form of treatment will be to your benefit in the long run.
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