Posted by Kaysey on August 26, 2001, at 9:49:19
In reply to Looking for GAD relief, posted by Hopefull73 on August 22, 2001, at 13:26:36
> After a series of catastrophic life changes, loss, and monumental job related stress in a two month period I developed GAD with Panic Disorder within what seemed like a two day period. Almost overnight everything was different and scary and unreal. I was hit hard with insomnia, panic attacks, depersonalization, and debilitating anxiety.
> I finally sought help after suffering unbearably for weeks and was diagnosed with GAD/PD. I started a treatment of Klonopin after two SSRI's proved to be untolderable at even low doses. It's been about 5 months, and I'm certainly better....but not great. I worry about the side effects of Klonopin (sleepy, dizzy, and noticeable hair loss) as well as worrying about someday trying to get off of them (currently at about 1.25 to 1.50 mg daily).
> I'm exhausted with trying to ignore the symptoms/effects of this disorder, and I want it to go away so badly I would do anything. I'm in therapy and working hard at cognitive "thought redirecting" and doing what I can to minimize the stress in my life. I'm better for sure, but not back to "normal".
> The $64,000 question is will this ever completely go away, and I can come off the meds? My MD is evasive when I ask this question. I read postings on web sites that scare me to death of people on five different meds and comorbidity of all kinds of conditions. Can somebody relate to this and offer some positive feedback...especially with my Klonopin concerns and concerns of my life being fractured forever. I would much appreciate it.
> Thank you.
I would say there is not one person on this board who, once they were placed on meds, has not asked that same question. Once again the expression 'your mileage may vary,' comes into play. You seem to have success with 'redirecting,' etc. and, as others here have mentioned, that might indicate that meds might in the future be minimized or eliminated. The important thing is what does it take for you to be able to live as happy and healthy life as possible?
I never responded at all to cognitive therapy, biofeedback, relaxation techniques/tapes, hypnosis, self-talk, self-help books, etc. I did everything in the world to avoid meds for a long (too long) period of time. However, medication is the only thing that has made my life liveable--and over a period of time I have had to change them (now on Effexor which helps both my GAD and depression).
Over time you will be able to see what works and doesn't work for you. It would be extremely difficult for even your physician to make that call. None of us like the 'wait and see' thing, but unfortunately we have to do some of that to find the right therapy. Best of luck to you and you are doing the right thing by seeking help and exploring your options.
poster:Kaysey
thread:75957
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010822/msgs/76446.html