I have been diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety - and like most people I guess one feeds off the other, the depression makes me anxious the anxiety makes me depressed. I'm now taking Valium and Avanza (Mirtazapine) the Avanza I have been taking for 7 weeks without any results at all, I feel as bad, if not worse than when I started. My dosage was upped from30mg after four weeks to 45mg but no relief and my doctor says stay on them. One person on the board mentioned Cymbalta and I would appreciate any comments on either Avanza, Cymbalta or any other medication which may be more effective as I'm seeing my psychiatrist in two days and I want to be assertive about my medication. My symptoms are continuous fear (I have been under a lot of stress for two years) the fear is unfocussed and is so great at times it makes me almost unable to function. The valium (5mg twice a day) is not affecting me at all now and any more makes me fee drowsy. - I want to take control of this - I have a young family, I have to get better!!!

I'm trying the activities suggested - walks, relaxation, talking myself out of my feelings. smelling to roses (not having too much effect so far - I'm determined to beat this but I would appreciate advice.
Thanks