My life is ridden with anxiety/panic

[QueenVic1952]

Having severe anxiety/panic and went on Lexapro 14 days ago. I haven't had any change in wellness. What is going on????? Ive been on SSRI in the past and it worked and solved all symptoms. Scared and not coping well.

[Agora1]

Hi QueenVic1952...Welcome to this comforting safe forum.I am on Lexapro myself, actually weaned off xanax years ago.

You need to give yourself some time for the medication to reach

full efficacy *usually 4-6 weeks.

Medication alone isn't the full answer. Therapy usually is a helpful

part in healing by addressing the issue that is causing your heightened

anxiety. I personally use daily Meditation/Breathing which keeps me in

a state of peace and calm.

I too was Agoraphobic for 5 years but through working on myself and finding

methods and tools to keep me going forward, I succeeded in overcoming my anxiety.

I look for others who like myself struggle with the same issues. I hope to pay it forward

through my own life experiences. I'm happy you are here with us xx

[my2bordercollies in reply to Agora1]

I am on lexapro, wellbutrin and xanax and have been for many years. I recently spoke to an MD who wants me to be weaned off of xanax. She said I never should have been on it for this long.

[Agora1 in reply to my2bordercollies]

Hi Dear....I too was left on a small dose (.25mg) Xanax daily for 30 years..I'm surprised it worked for that long or did it just become a habit.

My psychiatrist weaned me off slow and safely by using the Dr. Heather Aston

method of benzo weaning. It took time but was well worth the effort. No longer

feel lethargic, mind feels clear and energy levels have gone up.

I wish you well on getting off xanax. xx

[QueenVic1952 in reply to Agora1]

Thats so comforting, thank you. I have a therapist and psychiatrist and I feel like Im going around in circles. My mom recently passed so maybe that's the trigger. I have no idea what set this all in motion but Im forlorn and terrified.

[Agora1 in reply to QueenVic1952]

QueenVic, extending my sincerest sympathy to you on the passing of your mother.I truly am sorry. Loss of a loved one can put us into a tail spin of anxiety and fear.

Grief counseling can help but it does take time.

Please give Lexapro a chance to work for you. *usually 4-6 weeks, a little more if

dosage is increased.

Time and time alone can help with the healing. Right now your grief is more likely

working against the SSRI...therapy may help along with the medication. Hugs xx

[QueenVic1952 in reply to Agora1]

Thanks very much.

[mvillarreal]

If the medication isn't working, let your psychiatrist know. Your psychiatrist will be able to adjust your medication appropriately.

[lovetodance2018]

Thank you for sharing. I am sorry you are struggling with anxiety and the medication doesn't seem to be working. I understand the struggles with anxiety and depression. My SSRI was working well and then all of a sudden it appeared to not be working. What I found is my body had changed some and I needed to up my dose. However, medication alone isn't the answer, it also has to do what we are focusing on and how we cope with things. I have been working on three techniques that seem to be helping me. I hope you might find comfort in them too.

1) The 557 breathing technique is take 5 deep breaths in while thinking good thoughts about yourself like I matter, I am special, I am strong and then hold the breaths for the count of 7 focusing on those words about yourself, then let out the breath slowly for 5 seconds letting go of any anxious, self-defeating, unhealthy thoughts. I do this one to three times a sitting.

2)The gratitude journal is writing down something good every morning and night something that went well in the day, or something I appreciate about myself. Taking our focus off of the anxiety and depression and focusing on positive uplifting things really helps. What you think is what you believe. So thinking uplifting things you believe those things but the reverse is true - thinking negative self-defeating things, you will believe those.

3) Emotional Freedom Tapping - bit.ly/3AVYNiX You use pressure points to tap on those points while you repeat positive uplifting things to yourself like I am safe, I feel secure, I am calm.)

I will be praying for you. Feel free to pm me if you'd like to chat. Hugs and God Bless

[lovetodance2018]

How are you doing this week? I have been praying for you. Hugs

[QueenVic1952 in reply to lovetodance2018]

Hi and thanks for your care. I am still very anxious daily/all day. I just dont understand why my SSRI isn't kicking it.

[Agora1 in reply to QueenVic1952]

Remember QueenVic in that SSRIs are not like a benzo. They are not quick actingbut long acting once the brain reaches the proper brain chemistry needed. xx

[lovetodance2018 in reply to QueenVic1952]

Like Agora1 said, the medication takes time to work. I will continue to pray for you. Be patient and continue to work on your thoughts and find things you enjoy to distract yourself. Hugs

[QueenVic1952 in reply to lovetodance2018]

Something HAS changed. I am feeling somewhat better. Im almost afraid to type this for "FEAR" that Ill revert back to anxiety land. Ive been on 10mg since 6/4 and Villbryd since the end of April. Now on Abilify 1mg every other day to add some fuel to this combo to make it work. Ive only taken 5 does. Monday afternoon it was like a switch was thrown and I felt anxiety free. Tues was about 50/50 and today Im still doing much better about 80% better. Ive been so negative that I hope just writing this doesn't taint my progress. Let me know some of your history. Im very interested.... TY for your care and concern. It really means alot. Your prayers are working....

[lovetodance2018 in reply to QueenVic1952]

I sure can relate to that switch turning on. Remember that feeling the next time you struggle, knowing it is only temporary. I will continue to pray for you and feel free to pm me if you ever need to chat. Hugs and God Bless