My Experience of Anti-depressants (SSRI)

I have suffered periods of intense and persistent depression in my life, I've never talked much about it and never in public before as I've never wanted to identify as a depressive or be seen as mentally ill. Now though, I've made a video all about it!
This is a video I've been thinking about making for many years - I guess it finally felt like the right time. Despite how it may look, this is not a confessional, not a cry for help or anything like that, I am well removed from the events I talk about.
Instead, I have made this video with the aim to help others that might in a similar place to where I once was, or know someone that is. I also wanted to share what it's like to be on these powerful drugs, because I don't think doctors always prepare people very well for what's going to happen to them.
These were the anti-depressants I was prescribed:
Fluoxetine, brand name Prozac
Paroxetine, brand names Paxil and Seroxat
Venlafaxine, brand name Effexor
Sertraline, brand name Zoloft
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www.patreon.com/user?u=37285132
Patrons get lots of exclusive videos and updates on myself and my projects. Thanks to the support of Patrons I am able to make videos almost full-time, but without needing any corporate sponsors.
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All Paypal donations are now going straight to Project Awesome and will be credited on those episodes. Many many thanks to all those that have supported me and the channel but please only send money if you have it to spare!
My website: maximusironthumper.co.uk/

[@smays]

Thank you. That took courage but you might have saved a life. Or improved one. So glad you are with us.

[@bombardier3qtrlbpsi]

I second that!👍

[@stonyjon.w1475]

Absolutely agree. I venture to say that the world is a better place with people like Max in it.

[@justjim3168]

Well said.

[@dadawoodslife]

My Dr sent me to a counsellor once. After an hour the bloke said ( as I remember it) "you're not depressed, you're just living a shit life." That insight saved me from antidepressants and is exactly what you talked about: appropriate emotional response to circumstance.

[@michaelsteffensen6844]

Exactly. Depression is a mental illness. There's nothing "ill" about being unhappy with an unfulfilling life. In fact, it's an entirely healthy and necessary response.

[@rebel4466]

That's actually a very important thing. To oversimplify it: You're not depressed if you're unhappy for a reason. But still medication can help, even if not depressed. Like a painkiller is useful, even though you need to get your broken leg fixed.

[@Chicken42069p]

good that your counsellor said that, a good one perhaps

[@sitaruim]

Good man, that bloke.

[@jakedubs]

If you had won the lottery, or had your side hustle/business grow to millions of dollars; within 2 days, all of your symptoms of depression would disappear. You would get a private chef to cook you healthy food, you would have so much time to exercise, and you would feel confident to talk any beautiful lady. Think of that, you are only 48 hours away from being happy for the rest of your life.

[@stephaniecollier7951]

I feel that depression is a symptom related to having a good heart, an overly caring nature, a propensity for putting other’s needs ahead of your own and a generally kind and caring nature. A higher than average intelligence and intellectual mind can also be a risk factor too. I think you’re going to be just fine and if you have a set back in the future, we’ll you have a lot of experience to draw on. You will also be an invaluable source of help to others who may find themselves on a similar journey Thanks again, best wishes and kind regards Have a good week 👍🏻

[@bastogne315]

Dude that describes me perfectly. Better to be a complete ass hole and beat the shit out of everyone ( can't bring myself to do it though)😍

[@RamonaMcKean]

An awful thing called codependency can sneak in and mess us up lots!!

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

you have just described what is pejoratively referred to as 'codependency', a product of conditional or negligent parenting and care by your primary caregivers. being utterly dependent, this causes dissociation from your true self to get your infantile needs met by putting theirs first. depression and other mh conditions are a result of this developmental dysfunction and trauma. that was not your fault. you were not given the unconditional love in a home that is a safe place to fail that all children deserve. that is your actual starting point towards a full recovery. 🙏

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

give me a thumbs up if this resonates with you. you may have heard of 'codependency', a product of conditional or negligent parenting and care by your primary caregivers. being utterly dependent, this causes dissociation from your true self to get your infantile needs met by putting theirs first. depression and other mh conditions are a result of this developmental dysfunction and trauma including autism. that was not your fault. you were not given the unconditional love in a home that is a safe place to fail that all children deserve. that is your actual starting point towards a full recovery. 🙏

[@RamonaMcKean]

@inhale.exhale.2527 Yes, a thumbs up. I mentioned codependency one month ago in the thread already.

[@theswime945]

I baulked at the idea of investing 38 minutes in this. Turns out it's the most important 38 minutes I've ever watched on YT. Thank you so much for explaining your experiences so frankly and lucidly. This should be a mandatory watch for trainee doctors and blokes. Cheers.

[@jimdavis8391]

Gotta shout at the devil. ,)

[@MushroomSnake2077]

You and me both pal, I'd left this one bookmarked for far too long, being a guy that has always dealt with my mental state cold turkey, I'm only recently thinking of speaking to a professional. It seemed like a bit of a daunting task to hear about a subect I can consider 'personal' from someone I (in some small way parasocially) admire. As with a lot of his videos, our man Max puts them into words in a way that makes them both in depth and easy to hear, without watering down the subject.

[@garypoulton7311]

same here, wise words, applicable for me, and far too many others

[@mattbennett1502]

Yep I’ve had moments I could have addressed to the doctor,, but I realised that it’s only me that can address why I feel low, what made me feel this way etc. only then, once I’m true to myself, can I pick myself up and deal with it, talk to someone about it. Put it to bed then see life’s to short to let emotions usually caused by others ruin your life…. Reevaluate what’s important and your passionate about and go after it 100% xx

[@kgoldsmith6104]

I am a professional psychotherapist of some 20yrs experience and I agree with everything you’ve expressed here. Not only have you been courageous enough to share your journey publicly, but have managed to deliver it with great eloquence and insight. As you say, one of the most important realisations we can have in life is that there is always hope. I’m so pleased you’ve survived, you are worthy of every second of your existence - well done you on being you 🔆

[@Kris28.]

Thank you for sharing your own views. In about 2-3 days i will tell my mother that i am depressed while out on a walk. I have learned that this first step of telling someone close to you is crucial. I am just 20 years old and there is alot of life ahead of me. I am not self diagnosing myself with depression, i simply have held all symptoms for a long time now, they unfortunately get worse overtime. It will take me alot of courage to say everything on my mind but im sure it will make me feel much better. Cheers to your cure of depression. I am positive that i will be another person that gets to live normally in the near future.

[@ricoesnell1176]

I’m a heterosexual man but I’ve never felt so inclined to hug another man. In my experience, people who’ve had a difficult journey and try to understand the reasons for that are the very best of people. You’re a top bloke.

[@Gnasherism]

Mate it’s not gay to hug someone

[@jtothew4201]

@@Gnasherism what if you are both nude?

[@catabaticanabatic3800]

What has being heterosexual or not got to do with hugging somebody?

[@Gnasherism]

@@catabaticanabatic3800 well exactly. That’s why I thought it was strange that you felt the need to state that you’re straight. That’s all

[@Gnasherism]

@@jtothew4201 just bromance! Haha

[@kawonnowak]

It is a very sad fact that very few doctors have the time or the inclination to ask "what is or has been happening in your life" when a patient sits themselves down in front of them. If they did, they would uncover the potential to learn enormously more about that patient and their state of health than any amount of asking where it hurts. Thank you Max for taking the time and summoning up the courage to share your experiences.

[@Patmac74]

I have been on antidepressants for about 10 years. They are most certainly not a quick fix, and to be entirely honest I don't think they are a fix at all. They alleviate symptoms but never cure the root cause of the issue in the first instance. That requires a lot of work on a personal level.. Having seen the entire video, I can 100% identify with your experience "getting off" venlafaxine. It's absolute hell. I have tried several times so am now on a low dose as well as counselling and that works ok for me.

[@dadawoodslife]

You have my sympathies. My first wife was put on Prozac back in the '90s. Changed her, from a competent, intelligent woman with some issues to an angry, nasty person. I didn't see it at the time, too close. We divorced, acrimoniously. Thirty years later I can look back and see the harm that drug did (although I first realised this probably 15 years ago ).

[@melgrant7404]

The problem is you can't fix the underlying problem if it's a life event that has devastated you .for some meds are the only answer.

[@necrosadotor]

quit venlafaxine my second time over a month ago, i'm sure you'll manage eventually. but doing exercise is mandatory

[@jamieandrewyoung]

Different medication but I had awful withdrawals from amitriptyline. Was trying to taper off for months with terrible nausea and ‘brain lightning’, basically small seizures. Going tee total and stopping completely over night kicked in those withdrawals very quickly! Can’t recommend for everyone but worked for me.

[@kostaborojevic498]

Use 5htp or niacin/nicotinamide for withdrawal. Also thiamine and riboflavin and vitb5 and b12 etc. Also vit c and magnesium in masses.

[@paulbuzzz]

I listened to your story and learned a great deal. I’m 60 and have led an “interesting“ life of chaos and variety. I’ve been treated for most of my adult life for clinical depression. I’m currently on venlafaxine and have been for at least 10 years. I’m having the devil of a job persuading my gp that I would like to come off them to see if I’ve any emotions left! I have been more or less blank for years. I think a lot of people will receive a lift from hearing your story. All strength to you a great success with your fantastic KZbin contributions

[@mopedmarathon]

Iv also been on venlafaxine for 10 years or so. When you say you want to come off it to see if you still have emotions left it sounds like I felt in the past. I do now feel genuinely content for the most part but still get the numbness sometimes. Maybe the numbness reduces as we heal? I don’t know much about the complexities of these things other than my own experiences but just thought I’d put in my 2p worth. Good luck to you sir. I hope you’re journey to contented ness isn’t too much longer. All the best.

[@jeanetteschauerman908]

You don't have to persuade your doctor to come of anything,the choice is yours and entirely up to you.Afrer my life had been destroyed by doctors and psychiatrists from the age of 14 ,when l was prescribed the sleeping tablet Mandrax,later banned by the Goverment,and Stelazine.These drugs caused depression,later l was sent to a psychiatrist to help me get off the Mandrax ,this was back in the early seventies,who used me as a lab rat and gave me ever increasing quantities of all classes of psychotropic medication ,which completely screwed me up ,leading to 54 years on this kind of medication,both the old and the new ,being sectioned multiple times,admission into 5 different mental hospitals ,including 2 of the old asylums,so many overdoses and other suicide attempts that l have lost count,various diagnoses,including, psychotic depression,schizoaffective disorder,Paranoid Schizophrenia,along with a couple of personality disorders ,for good measure.It was the drugs that were causing my symptoms,and making me suicidal.10 years ago,a psychiatric nurse came to give me a depot antipsychotic depression,she told me that she was leaving the job,and l think what she told me next altered the course of my life,for the better.She said that l might not be mentally ill,but it could be the effects of the drugs.This was the first time any medical proffessional had told me that,they had always told me that l needed this poison,and l was often forced to take it.l thought about what this nurse had said,and because by then l was disabled,housebound ,with several health conditions,and in chronic pain,caused by decades of this medication, I made the decision to gradually wean myself off.I told my doctor what l was going to do,read books by American psychiatrist Dr Peter Breggin,on how to withdraw safely ,and began my journey back to better health.This was entirely my choice,and l did it completely by myself,without any help from any doctor,and although the withdrawals were often bad,and in fact l was sectioned twice again,because my doctor didn't understand that my brain was slowly adapting to less and less of the drugs,and 8 years later l was finally free from the grip of these drugs,and had completely escaped what l call The Mental Health Trap.Now,l feel alive ,my mental health never better,my only regret that a big chunk of my life was wasted.Each day now l am thankful to be alive,although l am left with much pain and suffering.l am now 71 ,and if l can do this,anyone can.

[@lpil]

I wanted to thank you for these honest and open videos. I had a tough couple years a bit back and there were several points when I found your videos useful or reassuring. Your running video was especially appreciated as it inspired me to get back into shape and gave me a project outside and in the fresh air. Did me a power of good. I know this video will help lots of your other viewers too. Cheers Max!

[@peternash6206]

Your comments re: outside project, fresh air and getting back into shape I believe is spot on. Good luck.

[@andrewparfoot6328]

Max, I absolutely applaud you for your blatant honesty. Life isn't an easy ride. Men suffer all sorts of horrendous issues. Medical/personal etc. Have been on antidepressants personally and lived through the side effects. Anyway extremely envious of your abilities and lifestyle. Keep up the progress matey. Yours Andy

[@jontooley2107]

Thanks for taking the time and having the courage to share your journey.

[@simonholley4110]

Thank you for the honesty and the courage in sharing.

[@rogerduerden373]

Thank you for articulating your experience with such openness, Max.

[@worldofrandometry6912]

Very brave and honest of you to share all that. I'm glad you're well now and pray that you'll stay well.

[@deepheight]

Max, thank you for your courage and candour. I hope your message goes out a long way.

[@maddin3988]

What a powerful story. Thank you so much for sharing Max.

[@casto-]

Thank you max for shearing you journey through, think this has to be one of the most honest and eye opening videos I’ve seen. I honestly hope that if someone is struggling so much that they think they need to end it, that they find this vid. I’ve heard of too many people who have finished it and as you said, it’s affected the people left more than they ever though.

[@MrLeighman]

Thanks for your advice, and for being open, and for helping other people.

[@hoon2806]

Subscribed, been watching for a long time- that was a great chat, bravo.

[@ianwallett7438]

Excellent video! Wish you all the best Max.

[@funksterdotorg]

Good on you for telling this story, it can't have been easy. I am sure it will help others, and hope it reaches as many of them as possible.

[@akwalek]

Respect to you for posting this Maximus.

[@robjworkshop5692]

22:05 'Sitting staring into the corner not doing anything...' Yep, can relate so well to that. It's something so few people can understand who haven't experienced it. After nearly 2 years, I'm starting to find some motivation again, but that 'window' is so small, and you have to find something to keep it propped open!

[@bombardier3qtrlbpsi]

Very well said.👍

[@fufflenarnia3886]

Thank you for the honesty and insight, truly brilliant.

[@jaimeu5592]

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. Respect to you

[@garyevans9509]

Big hug ,can relate, you’ve given me many hours of help through your channel max,I suspect many many more people ,keep the vids coming many thanks max we need you.

[@rubarbcrumble5359]

I'm in my 60s and have been on and off AD's for 30 years. I had a bad childhood but felt fine until my 30s when a break up brought it all back. Prozac worked and After 6 months I came off them and was fine and dandy. I eventually married my childhood sweetheart and knew she drank too much but was in love. The relationship was hell and watching her destroy herself almost destroyed me. Eventually to save my own life, I left and had a complete breakdown and entered a very dark period....the very worst...I was in a black hole. I was prescribed Citalopram and went to counseling. I also found it brutal but It helped me spew out so much shit from my childhood that I'd told no one. Eventually things improved. I came off Citalopram for quite some time but suddenly felt that 'window' of depression opening and caught it just in time. I'm now on citalopram again and probably will be for life. They keep me on an even keel. Not happy..not sad and thankfully not in a black hole. Thanks for your brave post that I know will help many. Cheers.

[@jiplix]

Max your a one of a kind, I think that took courage. I have even more respect for my favourite iron thumping youtuber than I did an hour ago. More power to you and may your progress know no boundaries.

[@FontedaPipaPortugueseFarmLife]

Thanks for talking out and sharing this Max, not easy to talk about and can see we have been down similar roads and thankfully we took the right turn at those crossroads., so glad you did as i have always enjoyed your videos. A hug and best wishes for the future going where you want it to.

[@jeremyglastetter924]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Kinda calming hearing someone else's experience

[@conanmercer3853]

This video is an absolute treasure. I will be watching this more than once that is for sure. Thank you for articulating your story so well, I have no doubt this will help many people. Your honesty shines throughout. I don't take this for granted as much content these days is ruined by ulterior motives.

[@Ifallofalot]

You are a wonderful man! Thank you for being so brave - Mark x

[@tiredpilot]

Thank you Max. You have many friends here that appreciate everything you do. Your videos provide mindfulness, entertainment and education. This was a very brave subject to discuss and from all the comments you must realise how important and relatable it is to so many of us. You are a true gentleman.

[@169dunc]

Genuinely the best content I’ve watched in ages! I’ve been on anti depression medication for ten plus years, and don’t feel I need it but it’s so hard to get off. After watching this and listening to you I’m gonna look into it again. Thanks for your honesty and common sense approach to a subject people don’t talk about.

[@Mikeecoman]

Its amazing how many people who have opened up to their depression in recent years, myself included, as you- i'm don't class myself as depressive - but through various traumas- have been so but luckily always managed (without medication) to overcome it. So well done for this video and your honesty - it raises awareness and WILL help so many you'll probably never know about ! 🙂

[@KeiteiVentures]

Thank you for sharing Max, mental health is not talked about enough and isn't an easy topic to discuss. Reading through the comments below really shows how much it affects us in one way or another. I'm glad that you decided to make and share this video after thinking about it for many years - think I learnt more from this than the online courses we have to do at work. Am happy that you're keeping well :)

[@shanemccauley8354]

Thank you for bringing up the subject. I have someone I love that struggles and I’ve said at times he is over medicated, but I’m no dr and don’t deal with depression so to have a person open up on what helped them is a huge gift. Thanks again

[@HisnameisRich]

Thank you so much for sharing Max. honest meaningful videos like this do more good to those in crisis than you might realise.

[@robnewell5864]

Outstanding video Max. Vital message well conveyed.

[@johnhorsley2601]

Your the man Max!..Have watched your channel from day 1, you are a true inspiration..I have great respect for you, your uploads help brighten up many people’s lives including mine. I have gained so much from you, I think above all else you have demonstrated a simple life is it’s own reward!..Continue doing what you do, you absolute legend!

[@Flymochairman1]

That was the clearest explanation of Depression and what I've seen happen to others and myself and what we have been through with these trials and pills, some sadly not with us now but those who have held steady as they could and have made it through, like yourself. It's good to see you strong and in good shape and I hope this remains. We'll miss the videos! Best wishes can only be wishes but Hope spring's eternal. Thank you for being so open and clear, it can't be easy. Thank you, sir.

[@dave-d]

Bless you Brother. Many questions answered here. Thank you for being so honest.

[@lmnts-wildswimming9922]

Humbling listening to this. Much love and respect.

[@carlhobson1578]

Good of you to share that Max, hopefully people will find it helpful to their experience.

[@mdwdirect]

Thank you for sharing your story. That took courage.

[@squirrelarch]

Dunno why this popped up in my stream (well i do) but you have put so much across so stunningly well. With thanks and very best wishes to you any anyone struggling with mental health issues.

[@boobros1]

Thank you for sharing and being so open and candid. Best explanation I've heard from anyone else. As a counsellor and someone who has struggled myself, this is extremely relatable and honest.

[@mellowmoony]

Thanks for the video. I'm so happy that you just record yourself sitting down and talking about your experiences, that's rare these days. You've given me a lot of courage, thanks for helping out.

[@benstaniforth2591]

This is such a beautiful video. One of, if not, the best discussions on depression and SSRIs I've seen.

[@moonshinewilly01]

Holy shit Max, I was already so impressed with what you achieve with your days but add to that the mental health battles you have fought and won, and then being so public about all that. I take my hat off to you Sir. Thank you, and like you said, there is always hope.

[@trev9874]

Wow your willingness to open up is commendable and this will echo amongst thousands as we all go through something the mis diagnoses with many many people. I commend you and also thank you as I suffer PTSD which is a constant battle.

[@spungletrumpet]

Thanks for sharing this. I know we've discussed this subject quite a bit, but it's vitally important that people feel comfortable talking about their mental health, and this is exactly the sort of video that could really help someone.

[@Nachos_with_a_slice_of_lime]

You’re very courageous for sharing your story. Thank you.

[@paulbillingham4594]

Hi Max. Thank you for speaking so honestly and openly. I have loved watching your films over the past couple of years and draw a lot of inspiration from you. Watching you work with your Grandad and seeing the warmth and kindness between you is smashing. I have had similar problems in recent years and even though I work in Mental Health its really good to hear someone talking about their journey breaks down stigma and helps many people. Us blokes are not good at this. All the very best.

[@Secondgen392hemi]

I've been on somewhat of the same journey and today was day I thought about the end and I turned on KZbin and your video was on. You filled heart with so much joy with your journey. Thank you sir

[@christopherkingston9601]

Thank you for sharing the story of what happened to you. May your comprehension of matters never leave you.

[@mariafornell6765]

Thank you for this video, especially the last sentence.

[@veronicabalfourpaul2288]

Glad you're 'clean'. Thank you for your honesty. Stay well.

[@rockhouserenovation2264]

Max, no words for what this kind of honesty does to advance the mental health agenda. Thank you for taking the time to.make this video and post it. It really brings home that everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about, and to be kind. Thanks max

[@sjb9272]

Thanks for your honesty, not easy to lay yourself bare like that ! I found it really helpful listening. All the best, Steve. 👍

[@jameshicks9574]

I'm very grateful your doing so well and able to provide us all with the excellent content you create. Keep up the good work. Thanks again.

[@targetglen]

I didn't expect this at all, but I'm glad I've listened to your candour. You've always come across as quite a jolly man and it was surprising to see this element of your personality. I'm sure this has been very helpful to some of your followers and it's certainly given me more of an insight into myself. Thank you.

[@ravinloon58]

Amen brother! Thank you for sharing with such honesty. I have experienced many of the same things on my long journey through depression and I have come to many of the same conclusions. I am not there yet, the meds keep me alive but life is so much less than I would want it to be. Your videos are a real tonic, you do things I would do, you take interest in many of the things I find interesting too. My home is full of stalled projects waiting for a better day or a more fit and able friend to assist me. I know my depressed and medicated mind is far from who I used to be and sharing such things freaks out people around me... so it is better all round to lay low, put on a smile and do the basics when I can. Something I have decided in the last fortnight... if I can find hope for a better future I am beating depression... so I am trying to focus on good bits when they happen... things like this video.

[@stephenbird9714]

What a big man, well done to you for publishing this video. Your best video ever.

[@benhammersley2430]

Max you are an inspiration for speaking out as honestly as you have! Sorry that you didn't have the support group when you needed it. you do now!!!!!!!!!

[@daveunsworth9931]

I admire your honesty about problem times in your life, it takes guts to be open like that and hopefully you will help someone else going through the same issues.

[@richardguse3410]

WOW! What an important and straight forward explanation of a personal experience and such a help to understand someone else close by.

[@Johnsull1965ish]

Hi Max, just wanted to thank you for taking the time in making this video, it's good that we are opening up about this reality, your words have helped me and I'm sure they will help many others, once again Thank You and keep the videos coming as I really enjoy them.

[@JasonAllenUK]

Thanks for posting this Max.

[@haycrossaudio5474]

A great video Max. I'm sure that was difficult to do. So much respect for you to tell your story. I would never have known. I'm sure this has brought awareness to your viewers and made us realise that sometimes we don't know what someone is going through. We all need to look our for each other. Thanks for this one. Love your channel. Take care. Matt

[@ericcoyne6891]

Thanks max, your videos have helped me a lot over the last few years. And this video is something I will take on board going forward. You are an inspiration..

[@FenellaBeach]

Didn’t think I could respect you more than I already did, but thank you for talking about this in such an informative and unaffected manner, and in one take - so much hard earned wisdom here. Many of your followers will get it, others thankfully won’t - I get it.

[@philgoundry8730]

Thanks for posting this Max. I’ve had similar experiences in my own life, it’s good to hear someone speak so honestly on here. I know a lot of guys ( myself included ) find these things hard to deal with or talk about.

[@chrisjackson4457]

I have been on a similar journey in the past, Thank you for being brave enough to share that max you are clearly one of life’s good guys

[@shimsteriom4191]

What a wonderfully open and honest video 👍 Thank you.

[@MordredUK1973]

Nicely said, and I agree on your points, having been there myself I think it's great to have someone talk about it openly, as it's not an easy path to walk.

[@stevepettifer4896]

Thank you for this video Max. It was clearly a difficult and uncomfortable subject for you to talk about, but you dealt with it with honesty, integrity and without trying to hide of sugarcoat anything. I can't imagine how hard this must have been for you to talk about - although maybe I'm wrong and perversely it was easy because you knew it could do some good, I don't know. But I've been enjoying your videos for some time and whilst it might seem like your life is idyllic and perfect in many ways, this shows that we should never make the assumption that it hasn't been a struggle to get where people are and maybe is still a struggle. I've been fortunate enough to never suffer mental illness quite so deeply, but I have always been given to bouts of mild depression and in the last 6 or so year I developed anxiety attacks. I've never been fully, officially diagnosed nor needed to have medication, but you are so right that I know many people who have or do, and I know only too well how much support means to people who really, really need it. I hope this serves to reinforce the message that talking about illness helps remove the stigma and actually helps those suffering.

[@sueholness3486]

That was such a good explanation. I'm sure many people will find a great deal of comfort and hope from your story x

[@bcolinranken]

Thank you Max for sharing your experience….. it is indeed a story of hope… and this video will have given countless people the hope they need..

[@MarkWell808]

Thank you. 100% honesty. Respect to you this is awesome and positive!!

[@mprunty5782]

Thank you for being so honest in your journey. I have a frighteningly similar story to yours and hopefully your openness here can save someone else trudging through what you have. Good luck with your onward journey and thank you again 👍👍

[@steamwally]

Thanks Max, that was very interesting and insightful. At times my own storm cloud has followed me relentlessly, so it's somehow reassuring to hear someone else's story. Glad you are doing well now, pleased to be able to say the same.

[@DeePaignall]

Lovely to see a chat about mental health, your insight is invaluable, especially interesting about the gut, thank you.

[@ven5008]

A wealth of information, thanks for making this video. There is hoooooope!

[@CaptainZG]

Max, THANK YOU !!! Your videos are always a great pleasure for me to watch, but this takes a very fine and rare kind of man. You are one wonderful soul. God bless you Max. Z.

[@TheAdskidids1]

Really glad for you mate, thanks for sharing

[@nickstrow]

Thank you, Max, for sharing. I've had similar experiences with SSRIs (sertraline and citalopram) but you've said it all so well I've nothing to add. The risks and benefits as a treatment really needs to be part of the conversation about depression. It's a testament to you and the channel that this chat, which could have felt like a big shift in focus, felt just as natural as a chat about land rovers or splendid books.

[@lorraine1651]

I wish more people would speak out publicly in this way. Thank you so much for making this.

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

Wow a very powerful video with you opening up like this. Stay well pal

[@Frank040675]

Having had some similar but not as extreme problems I appreciate your honesty and sincerety. Very accurate description of everything I went through myself. Well done

[@frankjenkins6627]

Same thing happened to me . A spot on diagnosis of how it all happens . You have just described my and probably many others experiences with anti depressants.

[@hansdenotter7376]

Courageous and very helpful! I assume this shows a path out to a lot of people. I haven’t taken any ever and I don’t feel depressed but even I watched this video intensively! Very well spoken.

[@futurecaredesign]

My uncle died some time ago. My aunt has been on antidepressants for 3 or 4 years now. She says that her life has sort of evened out. She also says that she would like to grieve and cry about her loss but she just cannot reach those emotions. To be honest I feel that if the medication is keeping you from processing one of the most inevitable feelings we can experience (loss), it is no longer functioning like a medicine.

[@juliannewman8720]

Facts

[@laRoz67]

Thanks so much Max- I can see that wasn't an easy episode to make but I'm in awe of your bravery & honesty. I have a very close friend who has suffered terribly with his mental health for the last 20 years and this really helped me understand as someone who has luckily never had that struggle. I came upon this channel looking for advice about fixing up old Land Rovers - years later you're educating me about mental health and you apply the same depth of knowledge, wit and humility to both. Bravo & all the best sir!

[@mceajc]

Listening to this, and reading the comments - humans need to be more open about their experiences. Thanks for opening up the conversation, and letting others learn from them.

[@MarktheOddJob]

Wow, everyone needs to see this. I'm going to send it to my kids right now. Thank you so much for making this video Max. ❤

[@cbmsysmobile]

Thank you for discussing this, can't have been that easy for you. I'm currently going through depression for the second time in my life and it is a struggle every day at the moment for me. Listening to you has been difficult but helpful.

[@gregorscobie7375]

One of the best vids i have watched well done