Hey, gals! I haven't been on the board for a while & let me tell you why!!!!!!!!!......

I posted a while back that I suffer from depression; not just your everday chemical depression....it's situational (clinical diagnosis). The good news is, once the "situation" rights itself, I'll snap out. The bad news is, until the "situation" rights itself, I can't snap out! I know, some of you are rolling your eyes and saying..."...get over it girl.........don't be so weak!" I used to be one of those people who said that. Not any more. Depression is nothing to take lightly. Not only is it difficult to function (can't get "it" off my mind) but it's hard to keep from hurting those around you as well.

All this being said, the reason I've not been on the computer or my bike or anything else fun for a while until recently is because I decided to face my depression without meds! I woke up one morning and decided today was the day I either started to change things or accepted them the way they are and grow up! Ok, it's a little harder than that. I had to ween off the meds (Effexor XR) for 2 weeks......makes you feel like you have the flu! I was dizzy to the point of not being able to drive for days! My body ached, my head ached, I threw up......you name it I suffered with it for an additional 2 weeks after coming off the meds. But, I'm happy to report that I am free of all chemicals associated with the depression! I'm not cured, I'm not over it, I'm not happy, but I AM me! Take it or leave it!

One word of advice for those of you considering Effexor: I'm not sure I would recommend it. It's supposed to be non-addictive, but apparently that's not the case. Tread lightly! It is scary coming back down from it!

Any way......I'm back on my bike (well, in the trainer mostly) doing my intervals........hate 'em........working on my cardio.......trying to get this 10 lbs back off........went thru an eating binge when I was coming off the meds....trying to function as a normal human being!

I am praying for everyone on this board right now who suffers with clinical, situational, chemical.......or other types of depression. I am right there with you! OK: my therapy session is over! Great to be back is all I can say!

Kim in TN