Panic attacks : I can’t take it anymore... - Anxiety Support

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Panic attacks

Christine05 profile image
8 Replies

I can’t take it anymore panic attacks every day headaches every day what does everyone take for panic attacks I’m on Ativan sometimes Xanax on and off Lexapro for the last two years I need to find something else that works for panic and OCD

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Christine05 profile image
Christine05
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8 Replies
Nurse001 profile image
Nurse001

Hi

If at all possible maybe try to get off the benzos. They made my anxiety and panic worse. I've recently started after several years of being fine, having dreaded anxiety attacks. I've been well controlled with Buspar. It was like a miracle. I've had some recent health challenges which has made the anxiety return.

Please. If you are going g to withdraw from the benzos, do under strict medical oversight. I did on my own and it was quite unpleasant.

There is hope, prayers for you as I definitely understand how you are feeling.

Downandout123 profile image
Downandout123

My heart goes out to you Christine. I've read quite a few of your posts and some of them I could have written myself. I actually just wrote a post on here. I have to say though, I know many people are against benzos, but Xanax is the miracle drug for me. Unfortunately my provider weaned me off of them. ( I am currently looking for another provider). Buspar and Hydroxyzine are supposed to help with anxiety. They do absolutely NOTHING for me. I know how you feel. No one should have to live like this.☹

guynfl2chat profile image
guynfl2chat

If you need to take doctor prescribed xanax please do. I take very little of it as needed. It is best to take when you feel the attack starting to prevent the bigger symptoms. I am not in favor of taking alot of benzos but .50 to 1mg if you have an episode to manage is ok. How much do you take and how often?

I know you will read the negative sides of benzos but if used in conjunction with life changes and doctor supervision they are safe for managing panic and anxiety. I am not a doctor but talking from my personal experience.

Is your prescriber/doctor aware of your symptoms, Christine05? Being on more than one medication can sometimes cause the symptoms that you are experiencing.

I agree with the others who say that benzodiazepines, unfortunately, have a bad reputation. Antidepressants can, and do, have side effects and dependency issues, also. All medications have the potential to cease working and changes may have to be made.

Ffaiers profile image
Ffaiers

Hi Christine,

Let me just reassure you of something. Benzodiazepines are addictive & if not used correctly (abused) can cause bad reactions. However people are addicted to coffee, gambling, gym, all sorts of things. If you find they help you then keep on using them. Quality of life over addiction works for me. I take a maintenance dose of Clonazepam and have done for several years & my life has improved massively. Exercise is also improved my life. I walk daily, at least 2 miles. I put my earphones in & get lost in my music while I walk.

Every drug works different on everyone & what most don’t realise is that antidepressants are also addictive which is why people are weaned off them too.

I send you love & positivity as I’ve been where you are & know how hard it is to live like that.

All the best to you & my inbox is always open should you need to talk x

Callie67 profile image
Callie67

I second being on Buspar. Ativan helped me initially, but benzos aren’t meant to be taken long term and can lead to more harm. Everyone’s stories and experiences are different, but I became obsessed with Ativan and didn’t realize what I was getting into. I found a great psychiatrist who gradually weaned me off the Ativan and put me on Buspar and Wellbutrin. (I also take Gabapentin for pain and trazodone for sleep.) It’s more than I’d like to take, but I’m drastically more stable and all around healthier.

guynfl2chat profile image
guynfl2chat

I just want to add that I do not take alot of xanax, but I am trying to wean myself off of it. I am told its a small dose, but like others have said its not good to be addicted to something. I also dont like antidepressants and have recently just started TMS. It is a non evasive way to treat depression and helps with anxiety. It is still too soon to tell if its working as I am only on day 7 and I need 36 treatments but there are some signs its working a bit. Google TMS for depression for more information. Some insurance will cover it.

Moon_Glitter profile image
Moon_Glitter

Talk to your prescriber and see about switching to Klonopin. It stays in the system much much longer than Xanax and Ativan. Have you tried the Headspace app? I love it. It helps with so many things. Hang in there. And remember talk to your doc so you can get to feeling better ××

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