Struggling with anxiety

[Texaspete69]

I’m a 48 year old guy from Texas struggling with anxiety.

[Agora1]

Hi Texaspete69, Is this something new in dealing with Anxiety? Anything prompting a lot of stress in your life? You are certainly in good company on this forum. We are all in different stages of anxiety as well as some of us having left it behind.

Looking forward to you joining in and letting us know how we can help. A Big Welcome to you

[Texaspete69 in reply to Agora1]

Hi agora1 and thanks for your response. After serving 10 years in the military I started having wicked panic attacks. In short, I’ve been on 2mg of clonazepam for about 15 years and I’ve had my panic attacks kinda under control up until a few months ago when a VA doctor cut me back to 1.5 I went through the crazy withdrawals and now I have panic attacks almost every night. I honestly couldn’t handle it anymore so I tried to go back on 2mg and the clonazepam is having an adverse affect on me. It seems like when I take my meds it gives me heart palpitations. It’s a catch 22 type deal and I’m freaked out.

[Agora1 in reply to Texaspete69]

Thank you for your service Texaxpete69. We are not doctors but in general have seen many people who after long term benzo use go through the withdrawal symptoms that you are experiencing. (Including myself) Usually after that length of time, the symptoms start breaking through even left on the current dose. Your doctor must have his reasons for trying to cut you back on the dosage. After that length of time it is not easy but it can be done, slowly and safely.

I went through a weaning process myself after having been left on a benzo for many years. When it began causing me more symptoms then not, my psychiatrist used a safe but slow method of weaning off completely. The symptoms will get worse before they get better. Believe me it does get better.

Not sure if your doctor is wanting to take you off Clonazepam completely which may be the better way to go. Once you are off the med, the brain heals from years of abuse and learns to manufacture the chemicals needed on it's own. After that, the results are amazing.

I know how difficult it is to put up with heart palps and this should be discussed with your doctor. You are not alone in what you are feeling. Since we are all different in how we react to our medications, I suggest working closely with the VA doctors to where you are physically and emotionally comfortable. My best to you in going forward. We support you because we care. x

[Texaspete69 in reply to Agora1]

Thanks for the reassurance, I needed that. I’m a single dad raising a teenage boy so my stress level is up there. I used to drink pretty heavy, so I’m still kinda dealing with that. I have one year sober and not looking back, I just have to beat this one last demon. My future is looking good now that I found this group of great people like yourself. There is hope. Thanks

[Agora1 in reply to Texaspete69]

Never give up Texaspete, giving up is not an option I have an anorexic daughter so I am familiar with stress. Congrats on one year sober, that is a huge step and I'm proud of you. Your future is what you make it but...don't project too far. Live in the moment. The present is all we have. There is always hope, stay positive, stay focused, stay strong. You are not alone. You have found friends

[Penguintaz]

Welcome texaspete69

I'm am also new but am sure this forum will be happy and helpful. Whether you just read or contribute your own thoughts/ advice.

Look forward to maybe hearing more from you.