Mood Swings: Navigating Medication and Mental Health

Bipolar disorder?

I recently sought help from a psychiatrist due to emotional fluctuations.
The doctor prescribed me medication, but I feel increasingly strange as I take it.
I used to experience more depression, but on the first day of taking the medication, I woke up feeling as if a part of my brain had been emptied.
How should I put it...
I felt unable to be depressed, but my emotions felt heightened, and I was anxious.
Additionally, my sleep quality has been poor, and I often have the urge to take all the medication to see what would happen.
The only time I feel comfortable is when I listen to music at a high volume with headphones, but after a certain point, my ears start to hurt.
Yet, I love how music fills that empty part of me.
The medication I'm currently taking is called Luvox, 50mg.
I feel conflicted; I want to take the medication, but I also don't want to.
I want to take it because I slept well the first time I took it.
The doctor also mentioned that it would help me sleep well, but I don't want to wake up feeling emptied out, and I feel scared.
I think I'm normal and very happy! I don't need medication! Please help me with this, thank you.

ellen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/03/28

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry

Dear Ellen,
After reading your letter, it seems you are quite confused.
There has been a period of emotional fluctuations, but the information you provided is not very clear.
I do not understand the background of your emotional lows.
Is it due to physiological reasons, such as thyroid issues? Or are there life changes, stress, or trauma involved? Perhaps it is a state of depression, sadness, and helplessness without a specific cause? Are there any other symptoms present?
The medication you are taking, Luvox (fluvoxamine) at 50mg, is an effective antidepressant.
Could the side effects be causing you to feel mentally drained and unable to think clearly? I strongly recommend that you discuss your medication and its effects further with your psychiatrist.
I also hope you can work with professionals to identify your difficulties and combat your illness.
Please accept the evaluations, diagnoses, and necessary interventions provided by the professionals.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2001/03/28

More Info

Navigating mood swings and the complexities of medication can be a challenging journey, especially when dealing with mental health issues. It’s important to understand that the experience you’re describing is not uncommon among individuals who are prescribed antidepressants, such as Luvox (fluvoxamine). This medication is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is commonly used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.

When starting an SSRI, it’s typical for patients to experience a range of side effects as their bodies adjust to the medication. These can include feelings of emotional numbness, increased anxiety, or even a sense of being "wired" or overly stimulated. The sensation of feeling like parts of your brain are "emptied" or "vacant" can be disconcerting and may lead to confusion about whether the medication is helping or hindering your emotional state. It’s also not unusual for patients to experience fluctuations in their mood, sleep disturbances, or even thoughts of self-harm when adjusting to a new medication.

Your feelings of wanting to stop the medication while simultaneously feeling the need to take it are indicative of the internal conflict many face when dealing with mental health treatment. It’s crucial to communicate these feelings to your prescribing physician. They can help you assess whether the medication is appropriate for you or if adjustments are necessary. Sometimes, the initial dosage may need to be altered, or a different medication may be more suitable for your specific symptoms and lifestyle.

Additionally, the use of music as a coping mechanism is a common strategy for many individuals experiencing emotional distress. Music can provide a temporary escape and a way to process feelings that may be difficult to articulate. However, if the volume is causing discomfort or pain, it may be beneficial to explore other forms of relaxation or distraction that do not lead to physical discomfort.

It’s also important to consider the role of therapy in conjunction with medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can provide you with tools to manage your emotions and develop healthier coping strategies. These therapeutic approaches can help you understand the underlying causes of your mood swings and teach you ways to respond to stressors without resorting to self-harm or other harmful behaviors.

In summary, navigating mood swings and the effects of medication like Luvox can be complex. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your experiences, side effects, and any concerns you may have. They can help guide you through this process, ensuring that you find a treatment plan that works for you. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support systems available to help you manage your mental health effectively.

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