I’m really struggling - anxiety meds?

[awkwardhighfive]

Hi all, 

posted awhile back about my struggles with severe health anxiety. They haven’t gotten any better and my overall depression and anxiety have gotten much, much worse. 

today I start my journey with antidepressants/ anti anxiety medication [Edited by moderator]. I took it 1.5 hours ago and have already had two panic attacks. Being that I have severe health anxiety I get really scared about having to take new meds. 

I’m not suicidal but life doesn’t feel worth it anymore. I feel empty and drained, I feel nothing but despair. I have no emotions other than sadness, fear, and anxiety. I spend time with loved ones and I can laugh and smile, but the hollowness never leaves. I feel like a complete shell. 

I know there’s typically a 2 week adjustment to antidepressants but I’m worried that, because I had these panic attacks after taking the meds today, my brain will keep telling me it’s the medications fault and I will keep having panic attacks. 

If you’ve had positive experiences with antidepressants / anti anxiety medication please share them, it would really help to hear about any uplifting outcomes. 

[Asgard]

Hi @awkwardhighfive 

Nice to meet you, and I so can identify with the depression and anxiety.  As you said yourself it takes a while for the meds to kick it, so give them a chance to do what they are supposed to.  Keep afiming to yourself that you are on the right track and that things will get better as they will.

You should be proud of yourself in talking control of your situation and getting to your GP.  We all need help and support, do you have some friends or family that you can speak with.  Know that the community on here is always there for you.................Asgard

[Glisten]

Hi 👋🏼 @awkwardhighfive 

Did your GP say how long it would take for the medication to take effect?

I’ve been on anti-anxiety/ antidepressant medication since last year. 
My first medication didn’t really do anything, even when the dose was doubled.

It takes a solid week or more for some medication to get to the right level in your system.

I went back to my GP got a different type. This time they are working pretty well considering my circumstances.

So just follow the medication directions.

Call or email your doctor if you need to clarify dosage and information.

That’s what you are paying them for.

G

[awkwardhighfive]

Hi @Glisten , yes my GP said it would take about two weeks for it to take effect. I’m mostly just anxious about the adjustment period and how it could affect my body. Yesterday was rough so I’m scared, but I know I need to push through. 

[Glisten]

@awkwardhighfive your handle is awesome btw 😁

For sure yesterday would have been shite. Your meds haven’t had time to work.

Have you remembered to take your medication today?

It needs time to build up in your system and then you maintain it at that level.

Everyday after today will get easier for you.

Do you like music?

G

[awkwardhighfive]

@Glisten haha, thank you. 

yeah I’m just about to take them with breakfast. The anxiety is high already this morning and getting out of bed feels pointless but we do what we have to do. 

Yes I do like music, have been listening to a lot of music / audiobooks / meditations to distract me. 

[Glisten]

Very proactive @awkwardhighfive !