Agitation

[CaptainMarvel23]

Experiencing agitation really badly. Wondering if it's the olanzapine. Has anyone here ever struggled with agitation after the post partum psychosis episode? Looking for someone who can relate...

[Maria_at_APP Moderator]

Hi CaptainMarvel23, I have experienced restlessness recently, which for me it seems to be related to the current abnormal and uncertain circumstances, more than anything else. I was on olanzapine for almost a year and when I was on a dose lower than 10 mg the only noticeable side effect was drowsiness in my case. That's not to say that drugs affect every individual differently.

When I have felt agitated recently I have used some mediation apps, calm and headspace seem as good as any. I also go for a long walk in the afternoon and listen to music during the day. I have been furloughed from work, so in that sense I am very fortunate that I have so much more time in my hands now and less stress.

I hope you feel better soon, are you under a perinatal team or community psych? May be worth mentioning your recent change in mood and see if they have any suggestions regarding dosage and/or medication.

[CaptainMarvel23 in reply to Maria_at_APP]

Thanks, EmiMum. I'm meeting with my psychologist regularly and my therapist. I don't have anxiety that is attached to anything so apps like calm and taking a walk don't seem to help, unfortunatley. Thanks for your reply!

[Chick44nzrn]

Hello C M 23 ( great name)

Could you consider discussing the dose you are on as there’s a wide gulf of side effects as doses increase or decrease . You have effective communication with you MH team ?

The other factor I noticed was as a drug relieves symptoms it also highlights your environment and situations which can increase awareness of concerns , and if this was the case , some talking therapy could help ?

I’d ask for a medication review to get the best of your teams knowledge if it does resolve itself ... you and your mental wellbeing are vitally important so go for the best expertise you can for advice !

All best wishes

Denise x

[CaptainMarvel23 in reply to Chick44nzrn]

Thanks!

[coffeemom2]

Hi, I struggled with agitation after taking abilify. I couldn’t stay still I felt like I always had to be moving. It turned out not to be the drug for me. I tolerate risperidol so much better and Zoloft worked well. Speak with your psychiatrist, maybe this isn’t the drug for you.

[CaptainMarvel23 in reply to coffeemom2]

Thanks!