Anxiety and Depression

[Gina1gina]

Hi all,

I am 55 years old and have had a history of depression. I had a traumatic event happen at my job last April and since then have been struggling with anxiety. It is virtually impossible to find a psychiatrist who is on my health plan to talk to and prescribe meds. My regular doc is prescribing 150 mg of Wellbutrin and 40 mg of celexa. I also have been given 2 mg of Xanax but i know how addictive that is and I am also in recovery so I want to stop taking it. I feel so boxed in and I never want to leave my house. I have lost all interest in basically everything. I just feel numb and flat like I’m going through the motions. Ironically I am a yoga teacher and feel like I need to fake it til I make it but I get very positive feedback from the students who take my classes. I am open to all suggestions. Thanks

[AZ1970]

Have you seen a therapist? EMDR is a good way to treat trauma. It could settle things down.

[Hidden]

I too suffered a traumatic event recently. I started seeing a therapist again, as it helped me in the past. She’s the one who suggested an online support group. I’ve been struggling with adjusting to medication, it’s just not doing the trick. So I’ve been searching so alternative methods also. I went to a health food store and bought a bracelet with beads and lava stones. You put essential oils on the stones. I chose lavender oil mix. Every time I move my arm I can smell it and it reminds me to take deep breaths, which calms me. Im hoping little things like this will redirect me from an anxiety attack or help me when I’m irritable. Small steps...

[Ollyvie]

Hello Gina1gina.

Am sorry to hear what you are going through. I know its not been easy and understand how to feel. I still see the serving spirit in you. If you have managed it up till this point, then you’ve got what it takes to handle it. we all do struggle with setback every now and then, but we have to keep try to keep our head above the waters. Am glad you get positive feedback from your student. You don’t have to let this stop you from doing what you do best(yoga). Keep faking it till you make it and it becomes the new you. If you literally have to drag yourself to your yoga studio just do that because it looks like it is working. We all find ourselves struggling from time to time – and everyone could use a helping hand during seasons that are especially rough. If you feel like you’re in “survival mode,” them may this this article might be helpful just it has been to me. (tosavealife.com/faith/inspi... )

As long as you have life, live it to the fullest no matter what challenges comes your way. Stay hopeful and praying with you.

[SueSue13]

I suffer trauma as well, but it was as child. I would open about the medication and if is working or you have concerns. My regular doctor is doing all of my medication and I see a therapist that specializes in trauma. I also did group therapy for 6 weeks which helped me a lot. I still have really bad days, but I don’t have those thoughts everyday now.