Transitioning off meds

[olivejane]

I realized last week that I’ve hit the withdrawal portion of transitioning off my meds. I have taken Paxil for 12 years after frequent panic attack’s and eventual agoraphobia we’re dramatically effecting my quality of life. At one point I was on 50mg. With a doctors

Help I began to taper and have been completely off for approx 3 weeks. The withdrawal symptoms are starting to hit me (nausea, dizziness, headache, anxiety, etc). Its been frustrating to say the least...and i keep telling myself this will pass and my body will find it’s new normal without the meds. One thing that’s been hard is tying to explain my transition off with my fiancé who never knew me when my anxiety was at its worst. Sometimes it feels lonely...part of why I’m here. Also-to clarify, I have never felt bad or ashamed of being I medications, I just felt that after 12 years it was time to try and give my body and mind a shot with out the chemical intervention. I also want to conceive soon, and know i can’t take the meds while pregnant. I’m hopeful but still eager to feel normal again...

[Rpan]

Congratulations, I wish you the best. I’m sure it will work. It seems like your life is in order. Just keep talking about what is going on.

[olivejane in reply to Rpan]

Thanks for the support and encouragement

[ElleM7777]

Meds reduction is the most difficult part of mental health, I think. I tried it, and had to change it because mine was so bad. If your symptoms are intolerable, go back on a small amount, such as 12.5 for a few weeks, or a months, then 1/2 of that for 2 weeks or a month, and so on. Our brains do not adjust to tapering off any faster than they do titrating on a medication.

If your significant other isn't familiar with you as a different person, sit him down and explain how you WILL be different. Tell him how you feel now, how you felt before. If you are going to get married and have children together, you will have to be honest with him, and feeling comfortable with that. If you can't, you should really think about whether this is the right relationship for you. Sorry about being so blunt. I know that is difficult to hear.

I wish you well with staying off your meds AND your relationship. You CAN do both. Your fiance will understand. Let him know what to expect, so he isn't surprised when you have increased anxiety, or (God forbid) if you have a panic attack, and you will be fine. Let him know what YOU NEED from him when you are anxious! Sometimes it is a hug, a touch, a quiet/dark room. Everyone is different. If you can't stay off meds - there are plenty of children to adopt.

You're going to be a GREAT mom!

Elle

[olivejane in reply to ElleM7777]

Elle-thanks so much for the support , encouragement and suggestions 😊

[Agora1]

Olivejane, wishing you well as you go through each day off your medication. The hardest part has been done and that was the decision to wean off your medication safely and slowly. The rest will be about struggling for a short time as your brain heals and learns to manufacture the chemicals naturally in your brain. Keep in mind that each day brings you closer to reaching your goal. You will have an "aha" moment one day and you will know you have reach the home finish.

Was on Benzos for 30 years and came off it with help of my doctor. The feeling of clarity once again is an amazing feeling. All these symptoms will pass. We're here to support you through your last phase. Stay strong Olivejane. you've got this. xx

[olivejane in reply to Agora1]

Thanks so much for the encouraging words ! Can’t wait to get there

[Hidden]

Hello olivejane, i kniw all to well what you are going through. After 10 years on Celexa i decided to come off and give natural alternatives a try...it was sp hard when the withdrawal hit after about a month. I wish you lots of strength and peace during this time, I know it's difficult but you can do it. Take care and best wishes 😇🌹

[olivejane in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the encouraging words !

[dee_bells]

Olive Jane, you're so brave. I have no clue what it's like without medications. Take it slowly with the help of your doctor. Good luck and take care!

[olivejane in reply to dee_bells]

Thank you!