Posted by Cam W. on February 24, 2000, at 6:53:51
In reply to Thank you Bob, Cam W., posted by Rick on February 23, 2000, at 17:24:30
> I just wanted to thank you for your response to my inquiry about being treated for anxiety/depression. As I had stated in my first post, I am new to this area. I haven't replied sooner because I woke up the following day and had another (what I thought was another) allergic reaction to medication...only to be admitted to the Behavioural Health Services dept of my local hospital. I learned that I was indeed, having panic attacks. What a living hell to go through before you know what they are.
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> I am now in the care of a psychiatrist who got me back on Remeron 15mg and started me on Paxil 20mg. I have only been on them for a week, although I feel like they have already helped me a little. I get certain times throughout the day when I actually almost feel happy...excited even...to do certain things, then sometimes feel depressed and anxious again, but not as bad as it was before taking any meds. I originally went to the hospital because I told my mother I was ready to kill myself, and I was honestly afraid that I would actually do it. I was losing my mind!!! I left the hospital today and immediately went to Wal Mart to fill my scripts for remeron and paxil and had a mild panic attack there. The funny thing about that story is that my father, who does not believe that any of this treatment will benefit me, was with me, and there happened to be a blood pressure machine there. I took mine, and it was 146/95, which is high for me. As we sat and waited for the scripts to be filled, my anxiety started to decrease, so I took it again and it was 125/75!!! I told him that Panic attacks are a real thing for me and that was his proof...who knows whether he bought it or not.
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> Anyhow, I am using 0.5mg Ativan 3x a day to take the edge off the anxiety, and so far, all is well. I will continue to take all my meds, even as I feel better, now that I know HOW to take them. I look forward to conversing with you all and learning as I go. This helps me alot as my parents are trying to be supportive, but I think they have resevations about medicines "for the mind". Thanks again for your replies!!!!
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> Finally finding some relief,
> RICKRick - Yes, panic attacks ARE real. I have seem Paxil work wonders in people who experience these attacks. The drug doesn't cure attacks, but does lessen the incidence and severity. Do not be surprized if you do have another attack. The Paxil can make panic attacks more frequent at the start of therapy, but they will gradually lessen as your body adjusts to the drug and you may only need the Ativan as a prn (as needed) medication, eventually. Glad to here you are on the road to recovery. If your father has any questions or concerns about the medication have him post them here. (Show him how to use the computer first - haha.) The medications you are taking are nonaddictive (even the Ativan if used properly) and will help calm the anxiety surges. Good luck - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:23401
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000220/msgs/23506.html