For what its worth...

Equifinality · 10-10-2010

Hi there!

I randomly came across this site when I was doing a literature review for a uni assignment. Very bizarre occurrence, as I have lived with social phobia (at various degrees) for many years now.

I havent spent a lot of time reading all the other posts, so I'm not sure if this post is considered appropriate, or if it has been mentioned somewhere else...just wanted to share a couple of things.

I have been living with depression and social phobia. The best treatment for me was/has been with a Brisbane-based individual, **********. I believe her business is growing to be very successful. She has DVD programs for individuals to do in their own time and at their own pace. I did the program in a group, which at the time, I thought was ridiculous. The very nature of the condition makes it difficult to be around others, and I am supposed to go through therapy in a group??? Pffft. But for me, I think it was better than individual counselling. I dont know if we're allowed to post links on here, but ************************************************** ************

The other thing is pharmacotherapy aka drugs! I am currently taking Paroxetine (Aropax) and lithium. I'm on the highest dose for the paroxetine, so the addition of lithium to the mix is to augment the effects of the antidepressant. The antidepressant alone wasnt cutting it, but since I have been on the lithium, it has changed my life.

So, yeah. As a psych student, I know the limitations of a case study, but that is mine. I've come a long way and its taken a long time and I wouldnt say I was 100% "managed" (cant say cured), but I've learned to live with my sensitivities and I'm living a much more functional existence.

If anyone actually reads these things, just know that there are options out there for you once you are ready to engage

Remus · 10-11-2010

No you are not allowed to advetrise, I removed the link, read the rules, advertising leads to permanent banning

Site Rules

Equifinality · 10-12-2010

Well thats a bit crap. So we live in a world where recommending treatments is defined as "advertising". Whats the point of a site where you are supposed to connect with "sufferers" if you cant link people to treatment? We live in a world where being helpful is advertising. I note that my medications were not edited. Is that not advertising for drug companies? Is recommending CBT not advertising for psychologists? Is trying to meet up in Sydney or Melbourne not advertising for those cities' tourism? Where does it end? Great site. Keep treatments a secret. Good luck with that.

EscapeArtist · 10-12-2010

Hey man, welcome. Glad you are doing so much better than you had been before! I agree it's a little bit messed that we can't advertise what has helped us.