Can I relieve my anxiety and depression without meds?

I'm on wellbutrin 150mg SR once per day for 1.5 years now. My depression is mild. My primary issue is anxiety which makes my mind cloudy and causes me to get down on myself. I'm not jittery, just anxious and sometimes filled with negative feelings. I also seem to have some attention issues, but I don't think ADD. I also have some major self worth issues and tend to isolate myself. However, I'm working on all of these issues with a FABULOUS therapist who has helped me immensely. He has taught me to meditate and have a more welcoming approach to my emotions. He is a very spiritual person and is a highly skilled psychologist. He is a great asset for me and I will continue to see him weekly as he is teaching me ways to have greater connectedness to the universe, God and all of creation.

I'd like to get off of the wellbutrin as I think it makes me more anxious. As opposed to starting a new SSRI, which my family doc recommends, is there a way I can do this naturally without meds?

When you're under a doctor's care, especially a doctor prescribing psychotropic medications like Wellbutrin, it's best to follow his instructions. If he tells you to take it, take it. The doctor knows your case and is in a good position to know whether you would be in danger if you stopped taking it. Wellbutrin is one of those drugs that can cause some nasty problems if you go off it suddenly.

However, if your doctor feels it would be OK for you to wean off of it, you could give it a try. Working with a trusted therapist is a great thing to be doing. This gives you a way to express your feelings and get to the bottom of what's bothering you. The next thing I would suggest is EXERCISE. Exercise provides a sense of accomplishment, feeling of self-worth, and improves your physical health. In addition it causes the brain to release endorphins, which are natural antidepressants. It also helps you to use excess energy, which will help with the anxiety and the attention problems, and it helps you to sleep better.

Avoid caffeine and excessive sugar. Eat five or six small balanced meals throughout the day. Get something you love to do and work at becoming really good at it. It could be a hobby, a job, volunteering, whatever. Just something so that you can feel that you are making a difference.

You said you are working with your therapist on spiritual issues. That's great! Having a spiritual dimension to your life definitely aids in staying healthy and happy.

Good luck!!

I have one word for you. Acupuncture. I have been doing it for 3 years now and it is so wonderful. I have not been sick, have detoxed from xanax without any withdrawals, and have also stopped being depressed and anxious plus I can sleep at night. It is so inexpensive and if you really want to get rid of depression and anxiety with absolutely no meds, you just have to try it. Please get info on it and you will not be sorry.
I don't know about the anxiety, but for the depression I would recommend going to the spa, listening to sounds of the ocean, and watching Armaggeddon. (You'll appreciate life a little better, and this is in no way intended as an insult).
i think you answered your own question. i was going to say meditate as well and see someone. if you're really concerned about the meds (which you should be and sounds like you are), i would get off them too. it's too many side effects. i think you would enjoy meditation, seeking theraphy, and phsyical exercise (good for the mind and body)...good luck
See anxiety and depression treatments at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris... on pages 2 (go to the self esteem websites) and 6. Print/refer your therapist: your MD has been indoctrinated, and is probably a lost cause, in such matters.
It seems you have been quite thoughtful about this issue. If you would like to develop further coping skills for when you experience depression and anxiety you may want to ask your therapist about DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). It is very effective at developing skills to tolerate when your mood and emotions fluctuate.
Best to you.
read my earlier statement on st johns wort. its awsome. try it if you ever get off the other meds. i have no side effects.