Medication question

[Dnel82]

Hey all. It's been almost a year since I've been on here. I come back from time to time just to see what's going on. Unfortunately I haven't gotten any better. I still suffer like I have been for the past 5 years. Like always some days are better than others. Other days not so great. I've been doing this all on my own with no support no medication no therapy. I've just been surviving the day.

I definitely understand that that's no way to cope and I should seek better alternatives. Anyways from time to time the idea of taking medication crosses my mind. I've never tried or considered it but I get curious about it's effectiveness. My main issue is dealing with my panic disorder. That's my biggest demon. My panic attacks have flared up recently. I'm getting frustrated and I'm almost embarrassed to say i have been inflicting physical pain on myself while I'm experiencing my panic attacks. This started recently and was something I've never done before. I guess the feeling of pain distracts me from the symptoms of the experience.

Are there any medications that actually work that helps with panic disorder? I understand everyone is different and react to things in their own way. But are there any meds that are specifically for panic disorders? I can go on for days about this, but I'm honestly considering meds at this point. I just can't cope doing this on my own anymore.

[Agora1]

Hi Dnel82, it has been awhile I'm sorry you are struggling so much. Most doctors prefer

to treat anxiety symptoms with SSRIs which are your antidepressants. Like any other medication, everyone reacts differently. Your doctor will advise you on what may be best according to your health history. I am on Lexapro which has proven to be a good drug for me after having weaned off many years on Benzos.

But it's more than just finding the right med. Dosage as well as time of day can be an important factor in how you tolerate it. A pill is like a helping hand, you still need to have other methods/tools to get you through. Therapy for one as well as finding some tools to

use that will retrain your mind in breaking the habit of anxiety.

No better time to start researching what is out there that will help. My "go to" has always been YouTube. Type in what you are hoping to find and it will pop up. There's meditations galore but there are also teaching videos by doctors and therapist that can help immensely.

I can help you with that when you're ready.

Trying medication doesn't mean a lifetime in being on it. It will give your mind and body that break it needs to regenerate as you work on your issues with a therapist and/or find methods that will get you through. Once you may get off medication, you will have the tools you need to fall back on. It's a win win situation.

I'm glad you reached out to the group. Take our hand and we will walk this journey together. You are never alone. My best to you as always xx

[hr1962]

Agree totally with Agora1. Started Lexapro Nov. 1st. Had some side effects that i fought through and after reading everyone's comments to stick it out i did and honestly, i have never felt better!! True, it was not just the pill. I worked out like crazy! 8 to 10 miles a day walking/jogging, ate healthy and read scripture. as of today, 3-27-21, all is still good. will maybe look to taper off in a few months, but if i don't, that's ok too. I'm happy, healthy and thankful!! All the best!!

[Agora1 in reply to hr1962]

Happy to hear that hr xx

Continued success

[Tranquilwaters]

Hi, Dnel. You and I have been around here for about the same amount of time my friend, although I had a different account before. I have tried lots of medications but nothing helped, unfortunately. What has helped is a closed group by Shaan Kassam on FB, plus his brilliant youtube videos. Promise me you'll at least go over and take a look? This guy really gets it - especially if like me you get a whole load of physical symptoms. The group is great too, it's not just a bunch of people sharing their misery but we are all working towards getting better and the subject of setbacks and bad days is well addressed both in Shaan's videos and the group. I know we have tried everything, but this is well worth a look into as Shaan himself was every bit as bad in his suffering as you and I. Take care.