My son aged 15 is having depression started about 3-4 weeks ago. Visited a doctor and was prescribed medication (Lorazepam - 0.5mg x 2 and Fluoxetine - 10 mg x 1).
From day one, he has been having problems sleeping and as such now have fear in going to bed. Everytime he closes his eyes and about to fall asleep, he felt his heart beat increase (face felt hot) and will be forced to wake up and not able to go back to sleep because he starts to worry he is not able to go to sleep. Please advise how can I help him to get rid of this fear/worry. His depressed moods kicks in around 5:00 pm daily. He will feel himself "hopeless" and worry not able to sleep tonight??
Questions my son have been asking:-
- Why is this happening to me. There is really nothing I am worry about.. not school.. not classmates.. not parents.. not siblings..What have I done wrong?
- When will this "feeling" go away. Is it staying for good and am I really sick up in the head.
- I want to get rid of this "feeling" but I have no control over it. It just keep making me feel down...down...I am getting very exhausted..
I was also informed to bring him to a private doctor so that he will not leave a record in the government hospital's database. It is no good for him in future? How true is this?
I understand for private doctors, their charges can go into hundred of dollars per treatment which I don't think I can afford for the long run. Can you advise an affordable alternative.
Hope to receive some answers and help from you.
Thank You.
Dear Annie,
Thank you for your question. It must have been a stressful event for you as well as your son. Your decision to consult a doctor is a good start. It is important to note that the antidepressant fluoxetine takes about 2-4 weeks to work, while lorazepam is to help him to sleep. Is your son able to sleep since taking lorazepam?
If your son condition did not improve, you may have to consider taking him to see a child psychiatrist. With regard to your son's questions, these are signs of depression; there are some elements of anxiety and also pessimistic outlook. The antidepressant should be able to help him relax.
All patient records are confidential, no records can be released without prior permission from the patient.
Please refer to http://www.depnet.com.sg/uni0/emergencyhelp/ for the list of mental health services available in Singapore. There are contact details for you to call or drop a mail if you have any queries.
Take care.
Regards,
Depnet