Hi all- I am a 28 year old, mother of a toddler and long time sufferer/conquerer of anxiety, and as of about 8 years ago when I tried to go off of medication, panic attacks for the first time. Ever since I have been on Zoloft and didn't have to think twice about anxiety ruling my life. It had truly been a great drug for me! Then when I surprisingly got pregnant with my daughter, I wanted to decrease my dosage to protect her as best I could. I struggled a bit post part and increased my dosage again. After doing some significant work on my gut health over the last year, I decided I wanted to try going off of my Zoloft and weaned down very slowly. Approximately a month ago was the first time in about 12 years that I was medication free, and overall felt pretty good, besides being more emotional. I did not do a good job of keeping up with self care and after deciding to leave my job where lots of toxic energy resides last week, I was overcome with anxiety, followed by panic attacks that I have not been able to get under control. Waiting to get back in to see my psychologist and psychiatrist, but feeling not only like I want to crawl out of my skin but all the feelings of inadequacy, shame and guilt that comes with the stigma of mental health issues. It is good to know I am not alone and I hope that others can benefit from my story as well! Health and healing to you all.
Resurgence of anxiety/panic - Anxiety and Depre...
Resurgence of anxiety/panic
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Hey there! Welcome to the forum. You'll find a good place to vent here with lots of support. I haven't experienced a panic disorder, but I just want to give you credit for getting the help you need. If you should need a little extra support while you're waiting to meet with your MH professionals, I've had great success with the chat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ !
You are not alone. I am going through anxiety and depression as well. I also feel like crawling out of my skin and I am a single mom of 2 kids. I hope you get in to see your Drs. soon. I am sorry you are feeling this way.
Hi it does sound like you came off your meds too soon. The general guidelines say that wait until you have been feeling better for at least 6 months before you try coming off them. If they help you then I hope you are back on them but don't forget you won't feel better until they have had time to get into your system again.
I agree there is still a stigma about mental illness but try not to feel ashamed of it as there are many people suffering out there. It's not your fault and doesn't mean there is a weakness in you does it?