Dear Doc

I am prone to depression following a classic "bad childhood" and dysfunctional family scenario which left me affected following all the trauma. I have had counselling but seem to lapse into depression now & then. My doctor has suggested long-term use of Efexor 75 in my case. She suggested for the rest of my life - I am in my early 40's. Please advise regarding long-term use. I am physically healthy and take good care of myself. I have had to distance myself from my family as they are unable to accept the boundaries counselling helped me to put in place.

Thank you & regards

And to the anonymous person that adds their 5c to any depression question:
First of all genuine people use this forum, your opinion is neither asked for nor wanted. The opinion of a professional doctor is. Furthermore, not all of us buy into your religious dogma so keep it to yourself and don't abuse this website. And yes I do know about the indidence of suicide after being on anti-depressants and my doctor didn't have to tell me. I read the package insert. You clearly have no idea what depression is, have never suffered from it and don't know the first thing about it or medication. For the rest of us (intelligent and professional people) anti-depressants are something that we are grateful for. I guarantee you more people go untreated and commit suicide than those brave ones that accept they suffer from depression and take the step in getting treatment.