desperate

[Emma143]

Hi, I have been off work since June as I can’t cope with the anxiety and migraines. I’m 50 now, so I may be going through menopause. I have had MRI scan, and a lumbar puncture, various blood tests, all came back ok except they have found migraine on the MRI. I am on antidepressants, called fluoxetine 60 mg, but they aren’t helping at all. I can’t work as I’m not well everyday. I’ve been getting SSP but that runs out in Dec. I am in the process of applying for PIP but it’s a long process and if I do get it, I’m worried it won’t be by Dec. Then I won’t get any money. I told universal credit, but they’ve only awarded me limited capability for work which means you don’t get any extra money but you don’t have to keep sending in sick notes. What good is that? There’s no way I can work. Just not well enough. I have high blood pressure aswell. I just don’t know what to do. All the worry of it isn’t helping. Any ideas?

thank you.

[Babe1213]

I do understand how you may be feeling, been there, done that and worn numerous T shirts. My depression/anxiety began at 30 in 1978 following a stroke and continued into my 70's. But I know by experience the only way to get through this is to take control of yourself. Stop relying on benefits, go out, find a job -anything that will take your mind of what is happening in your life. Only YOU can do this for yourself. How long have you been on the fluoxetine? - as an anti-depressant they will take a while to get into your system and if you happen to be fighting them (even sub-consciously)they will have little effect. Try meditation - prayer -talk to someone, who will listen and not judge. Do you have unresolved issues from your childhood, that need looking into? Are you getting enough exercise during the day, or do you just 'sit and while away the hours'? This will lead to sleeplessness and anxiety. There is so much you can do to get through this time, even the migraines - are they caused by something you eat or drink? If so change your diet habits. You're 50 now, no age at all in the grand scheme of things (I'm just shy of 75), not only do I have high blood pressure, but also heart atrial fibrillation - which is devastating, but I still insist on helping myself, not relying on tablets or benefits) At the end of the day we are all responsible for our own lives. Yes you probably are going through menopause - I personally think too many people are blaming this for everything. We are all becoming a people who are molly-coddled through life. Having had a mastectomy at 45, I was told I would not be able to have HRT, and managed 30 YEARS coping with the most horrendous night sweats, I was changing sheets and nightclothes at least 4 times every night (just one of the Menopause symptoms) You've had scans, MRI, blood tests, lumbar puncture all ok, apart from mention of migraine. Why are you not believing the results? Only you can do it. Stop dwelling on what is happening to you and do something positive. Believe me there is a positive for every negative!