Melatonin and depression/SSRIs

[Meredith]

I'm currently taking 50mg of Zoloft daily for PPD. I've always had trouble with insomnia, but it seemed to be much better until I started the Zoloft again. I've tried so many things over the years - Ambien, Benadryl, Trazadone, Xanax, Calms Forte, kava kava, valerian root, changes in diet and exercise routines. Either they didn't work, or they had side effects that I couldn't handle.

The only thing I haven't tried is melatonin. I was told (and I've since read) that melatonin can interfere with serotonin production, thus, it shouldn't be used in people with depression, or people on SSRIs or other antidepressants. Does anyone have experience with melatonin and antidepressants (or depression)? I'm desperate for something to regulate my sleep schedules and help me get the rest I need. I'm almost always exhausted, and I have absolutely no energy. It's been almost ten years that I've been struggling with this, and I'd love to try the melatonin, if it won't make the PPD worse.

I'm also open to any other suggestions.

[cream_city]

I have heard that melatonin is not good for people with depression. When do you take the Zoloft? I'm assuming in the morning. You might try a different SSRI. Lexapro makes me tired -- I actually take it at night!

[still_me]

I don't know anything about melatonin, but I do wish you the best in finding what works for you. I've battled depression/anxiety/PDD and I know how crappy it can be.


For me, completely cutting out sugar and refined foods has squashed any depression and tiredness that I felt. It is amazing to me how much better I feel and how much more energy I have.

On a side note: Repetitive physical things help natural produce serotonin. Our doctor encourages anything like knitting or crocheting. He also says to get a rocking chair and use that.

[Meredith]

You know, that's interesting, Stillme. I've always been comforted by repetitive motions. That's really neat to know that it's actually helping on a deeper level.

[JudyJudyJudy]

Meredith, what type of diet are you eating now? Are you getting enough sunshine? Enough exercise?

[Meredith]

I do my best to take a walk around noon every day, out in the sun, and I've been exercising for about 30 minutes in the afternoon.

My diet is up and down. I do eat a lot of fresh fruits, and I love steamed veggies, but not raw ones. We're working on going gluten-free, and I'd like the whole family to get into it. It's been easier said than done, though, since Jett loves sandwiches and hates GF bread, so far.

I've been doing my best to eliminate processed foods and eat mainly fresh meats and produce with some whole grains. I love - and I mean LOVE - cheese and dairy. Fat is pretty prevalent in my diet, because I can't stand low-fat dairy products.

I do drink Coke, but I've transitioned to caffeine free Coke, and I avoid coffee in the late afternoon/evening. Coke is my big vice, though. I've had a really hard time cutting it out of my diet. I've only had one can so far today, though. I'm hoping to keep it that way for today.

[JudyJudyJudy]

It sounds like your diet is pretty good, but I wish you could go totally gluten-free and stop drinking the Coke. I can't eat cheese because I'm allergic to mold, but the dairy that I do consume is mostly full fat. I do drink low-fat milk at times, but my yogurt is always full fat, as is my butter.

[Meredith]

Yes, Coke is my biggest problem. :( I know the sugar could definitely be contributing to the insomnia a bit, too.

[still_me]

Yes, Coke is my biggest problem. :( I know the sugar could definitely be contributing to the insomnia a bit, too.


I know that you've mentioned your battle with Coke before. Are you drinking Diet Coke because that is actually even worse. I'd be interested in hearing if it is contributing to how you are feeling.

[Meredith]

Blech. I hate diet coke. LOL. I can't stand the taste, but I'm also not one to tolerate artificial sweeteners well.