i would be interested also in Mr Microbiologist's opinion. (or anybody 'in the know') as to any other ways of treating depression without affecting T. I am aware that i have to treat the depression but i feel that i am trapped in a vicious circle and can see no way out. does anybody know if diazepam is bad on T? i have taken a few doses when i have been in a panic over the last few weeks and they do not seem to affect it - at least just taking the odd dose anyway.

Hi Debs. I strongly recommend you take St Johns Wort. I took it for depression a few years ago and it really does work. No Chemicals and no side effects. Buy the 300 mg, 0.30% hypericin. It will cost you £22 for three months supply but will be worth it.

thanks Steve. i really want to try the st johns wort once i get off of these dr u g s. how long do they take to work and is there definatly no side effects on the tinnitus? i just cannot seem to find an anti depressant that is safe for tinnitus!

Hi Debs, Your GP is there to listen to your needs and give you the best help possible. Making comments such as the one she did is unprofessional and counter productive. I've had similar experiences with many GP's the latest incidence being when I was completely distraught about a week after getting T and the Registrar drew a little picture of how the ear gets damaged with loud noise all the while smiling at me.
I hope you persevere and find something that works for you.

Debs, have you considered changing GP? This one sounds very unsympathetic by calling you a nuisance. I think you might find another one more helpful. It isn't easy understanding if you've never had it I guess but she should at least be trying.......please don't let her just keep prescribing you various anti-depressants. She needs to be looking at your medical history and doing some research.

I really hope you get some answers soon Debs. It isn't easy. I'm fresh into this and can relate to how hard you're finding it. Hang on in there.

Jules

thanks guys, i have not seen that gp since she was so unsympathetic. i ma now seeing a different gp within the practice and she has been totally supportive. i am slowly weaning off of dothiepin. and then she is happy to support me trying herbal remedies or whatever else i wish, she ishappy for me to take the reins and support me. what a difference!

debs,
the attitude of your first GP was outrageous. If you are interested in exploring non-pharmaceutical approaches to dealing with tinnitus, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) are the way to go. Henry & Wilson's book on the former is available from the ATA website and is called 'Tinnitus: A Self-Management Guide for the Ringing in Your Ears' . Just google for info. on the latter therapy and the widely available book that goes with it. I also suggest you read this:

http://stringplayer.websitetoolbox.com/post?id=2964711 (external link, opens new browser window)