Need advice for next steps

[laura920]

I’ve been so depressed and anxious lately. I had a few weeks where I felt ok, but kind of numb. And now I’m back to the same feeling I hate so much. I don’t know what to do anymore. I think about killing myself or hurting myself often, although I don’t ever actually do it. I’m sick of feeling this way. I’ve talked to a doctor and the meds didn’t work. I’ve talked to many therapists but it ends up making me feel worse. I don’t think talking about my problems from the past is going to make any difference. I just want to feel normal day to day. It’s getting to the point where I can’t work because I’ll pass out from being so anxious. Any ideas of some steps I can take?

[BonnieSue]

Anxiety medicine is available and it will work, much better and faster than an antidepressant. They're called benzodiazepines and should be used by doctors when avoiding them fails and anxiety is significant. They can be addictive but I've had no problems and neither has my dad or my son or others I know about. There are some things it helps to know about how to take them and get off of them. Ex: I once wandered too high on the dose due to anxiety not being covered, the doc said reduce them and I did and found the anxiety really was covered without raising the dose. I believe it took a day or so for me to see this though. I was new to benzos and didn't know the rules and best courses to follow.

Is your doc prescribing anything for anxiety now? If so, the dose isn't yet covering your anxiety enough. Have you reported your anxiety level to your doc? S/he needs to address it or it may be time for you to find a better doc if s/he refuses to help you. What drugs are you currently taking?

Hugs and love and Blessings...

[laura920 in reply to BonnieSue]

Thank you my friend actually said the same thing. I was taking Prozac but it was giving me some weird side effects that made me anxious about taking it. It was extremely uncomfortable so I couldn’t take it all the days like I wanted to. I’m going to try and see my doctor again and maybe see what else we can try.

[pink318]

Hi Laura,

I’m sorry you are feeling depressed and anxious. I have a friend who has the same experience, I shared the following activities and it works for her. I hope it will work for you too.

Exercise is one of the best natural ways to fight depressions. Go out for a walk especially with sunlight because it boosts mood. Studies show that spending time outside in nature can decrease stress levels and reduce symptoms of depression.

Try to eat healthy and have enough sleep. Do things you enjoy, it could be journalling, cooking, listening to music, volunteer or go out with your friends. Have a regular check up with your doctor and update him with your symptoms. I hope you will feel better soon. You are in my prayers. Take care, keep us posted.