Hepatitis C Support Group

I have read here on this site and others about hep c and tx. That the drugs can cause depression. Alot of people have had to go for a phsyc visit prior to tx. Some were started on anti'd's before thier first dose...some later on down into treatment. The one thing you will learn on this site, is there is nothing "typical" or predictable with this tx. I have not had any depression issues while on tx. I am wondering if you are just feeling a bit overwhelmed with the diagnosis. That would certainly send anyone into an emotional tale spin. You know your body and how it feels and reacts...so take that information and discuss it with your doc. There are so many different meds out there...you may have to try a few before you find the one for you. Either way, this is a great place for support and encouragement. So try to stay positive, having a good attitude in spite of tx...will help you get through it much easier and the time will go by...I know I was quite overwhelmed myself when i found out I had hep c...and from a blood transfusion 29 years ago. The only thing I got bummed about was, realizing I did miss a lot while I was sick with this disease. I am now looking forward to redeeming my time in the future. It is okay if you are emotional about this...totally normal. When you first start the tx, the first month or so may be very emotional for you. It was for me..cried at the silliest things...finally the emotions are back in control now.
So try to make mental notes on how you feel...use your journal here on DS...then you can maybe look and see how you were feeling...and then decide to get an rx filled to help you. I am not one to take any more then I have too, but if taking something will help you, then by all means, talk to your doc and get an rx.
Good Luck, and keep us posted.

If you suffer from depression make certain to get yourself on some good meds before you undertake treatment. Be honest with you doc. The medicine causes depression. It only took me to up my anti-depressants on some days to get me through the worst days. I also chose to stay away from people..that really helps. Know that we are all here for you. No question is too silly
hugzzz
Bayla..been there done the meds..sitting with a clear viral load 2+ years later

My doctor prescribed citalopram that has worked for me, I'm told I am 100% better than before by loved ones. You should ask your doctor

Good luck!

I've suffered from depression for a long time now...been on anti-d's for a number of years and they work for me. I'm into tx 16 wks so far and I've definitely had ups and downs as far as depression. The downs haven't been much different from a "normal" depression low but they still come up every once in a while. It does always pass but it's hard to take the steps to help it along when you're feeling down. Depression was a big concern for me in my decision whether to start tx and I have to say that it's really not as bad as I thought it would be.

Of course, everyone's mileage differs and that goes for any sides, including depression. I wish you health & happiness on your journey.

I don't usually have depression, but now that Im on tx, i find that im very up and down. I had to start taking some meds for the depression. I had a lot of just being emotional, right now i have hit a plateau, so thanking god for that.....lol. (knocks on wood)

i have been clean and sober for over 13 years. little or no depression history. ive been on tx for 5 months 5 days the second month of tx i didnt sleep hardly at all for a week, really started to feel depressed but it was a different sort of depression it felt very chemical. there was the rational feeling side of me and then the chemical rollercoaster. i got better sleep meds (lunesta) and ive felt much better. this tx would be very difficult in early sobriety. on the upside, it brings out my feelings and its helped me to confront some of my demons. ive also thought that doing tx was part of loving myself enough to want to live a longer healthier life, instead of the way i was when i was using (just wanting to die). anyway remember you can get through this one day at a time! and it does get better.