DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 70-year-old female and for the last few years, I cry at every emotion that hits me, anger, sadness, happiness, frustration. I am not depressed, I’m happy with my life. Therefore, I don’t understand why this happens.
Please don’t suggest anti-depressants. Been there, done that. While they helped me a bit, I couldn’t tolerate the side effects. Besides, I am not depressed, so I don’t want to go on them. Do you have any idea why this happens?
DEAR READER:
Because you are 70, I would not lean toward menopause being the cause of your emotional swings.
Has something changed in your day-to-day living such as personal illness, a family member being ill, increased financial difficulties, losing a beloved pet or other stress? If this is the case, counseling might be in order. The therapist will not prescribe anti-depressants but can certainly guide you through this difficult period.
An uncommon side effect of a medication you are taking could be to blame. Speak with your physician. A simple switch to another drug in the same class may relieve the symptoms.
There is help available. The fact that you have written to me is an excellent start. Keep investigating until you have your emotions in check.
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