> I don't know how to introduce this post, so I'll cut to the chase.
>
> I've been going to the psychiatrist for the past few weeks for some form of social anxiety disorder or depression or something. (Exactly what the problem is I'm not sure...) He suggested that I start taking Paxil (for information, see the link below). I was extremely leery of it at first; I thought my personality would be changed or something and the thought rather scared me. I have talked to some Rinkies in Chat, though, and they've convinced me to give it a try. I was just wondering if anyone had any relevant thoughts, experiences, etc. Any input would be appreciated.
>
> Saku[worrier]ra

you went to a psychiatrist. There's a very important distinction between a psychiatrist and a psychologist. Most people think that a psychiatrist is a psychologist that can prescribe medicine. This is NOT true! Most psychiatrists majored in pre-med, then went to med school. Then they did their residency with a psychiatrist. In other words, they only received psychological training from their residency!

A psychologist, on the other hand, has at least his masters degree. He majored in psych, then got his masters in psych, and quite often got his PhD in psych. Psychologists have much more training in psychology and as such are not so quick to medicate.

Unless it is truly a chemical imbalance, I'm quite opposed to throwing drugs at a psychological problem. #1, it just treats the symptoms- - - it doesn't treat the underlying causes. #2, often you wind up having to be on that drug for the rest of your life or risk going back where you started.

Paxil is especially evil. Those commercials they've been running suggest that if you're shy/nervous/etc, that this wonder drug will make you the Hunk of the Year, adored by all. Unless you treat the underlying causes of SAD/depression (BTW, you don't KNOW what it is? Does that mean your doctor didn't TELL you what it is? That's completely inexcuseable! You should DEFINITELY go to someone else - -- if he didn't tell you why he's medicating you, he shouldn't be medicating you.) you're always gonna be dependant on paxil to maintain your well being- - -this of course is just what the drug company wants, and what the psychiatrist wants too - - if he keeps having to prescribe it, then you keep having to pay him for office visits.

Find a good psychologist and work with him.