Derealization .

[Sophs82]

Hi I've been on sertraline 150mgs for 8 years now and had ocd in negative thoughts, but this derealization for the past year is freaking me out I cant go out , but I need to as I have 3 kids and my son who s 18 has serve autism so I need to be there for him . This constant feeling of like I'm living in a dream is driving me mad , does anyone get this with sertraline? Thanks x

[MAS_Nurse]

Hi Sophs82,

I'm sorry you are having such a rough time of it with your medication. Take a look at these links for more information about managing your medication: medicines.org.uk/emc/files/... and mind.org.uk/information-sup...

Also do chat with your GP and pharmacist about your side effects as your dose may need to be altered or your medication changed. Hope this helps.

Keep in touch,

Best wishes,

MAS Nurse and Moderator

[Sophs_82 in reply to MAS_Nurse]

Aww thanks so much for your help and I will keep in touch x

[Stantonrider]

Hey Sophs82,

As MAS_Nurse says, definitely have a chat with your GP or Pharmacy. It maybe a change is needed after a long period of the same meds.

I also take 150mg and have for several years but I still struggle sometime with my negative thoughts, especially when out of my safe space of home.

Have you engaged in any talking therapies? I'm sure you have but if not, that could be something else to raise with your GP. It's something that has helped me get through some of the downs.

It's really good that you have recognised the signs of slipping and reached out so give yourself a huge amount of praise.

Please feel free to message me whenever you like.

Scott

[Sophs_82 in reply to Stantonrider]

So how how long have you been on 150mg? And have you every had derealization? But it's TRUE I still get negative thoughts alot and just started therapy about 3 weeks back . Its just really getting me down, but thanks alot it really helps x

[Stantonrider in reply to Sophs_82]

It's been about 3 years at 150mg. Previously I had been taking Fluoxitine for several years and that time, before the meds change, I was having serious difficulties with derealization. On sertraline these issues haven't cropped up so often or as severe.

It's funny to call it derealization. I always just describe it, or refer to it in counselling , as being in my Fairy Liquid bubble. I know, weird. That's how it feels and seems, like a fluctuating barrier separating the world from me and everything on the outside is dulled and slow.

It's hard to catch and stop the chain of thoughts that lead to these events but its really important to give yourself credit when you do.

I know from your original post in this thread that you have a full plate in life and it must be difficult to take time for yourself but it's equally important to find time for you, even if it's short.

One technique I use when intrusive thoughts increase is to follow a guided meditation or story on YouTube whilst alone. I use

"Michelle's Sanctuary: Sleep Stories & Meditation."

There are many different ones to choose from and all well produced. Half an hour, close your eyes and focus on the dialogue. It really can help reset your equilibrium and channel out negativity.

And always remember YOU are Important.

Scott

[Sophs_82 in reply to Stantonrider]

I remember when I first started 8 years ago , flexoutine gave me serious panic attacks I had 3 ambulances out in 1 month. But my mum always told me about meditation and I do listen before bed but sometimes its hard as my sons awake till very late and he has serve autism, he ll never be independent and I need to be there for him always . This feeling like I'm not here and like light headed and in dream just all the time now I need to be the mum on point for them x my mum was my save haven and passed away August 20 th I could really need now but shes gone x but thanks so much got ur reply much appreciated x

[Sophs_82 in reply to Sophs_82]

Could really do with her advice and I really do appreciate your reply sorry.

[Stantonrider in reply to Sophs_82]

I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. It really is okay to still talk to her and ask her advice. I'm pretty sure, deep down, you know exactly what she would say to you. I still chat to my grandparents for advice, it's a reaffirming comfort sometimes.

There are so many ways we can effect positives into our lives and different ways work for different people. Try to find the ones that work for you because despite everything just look how strong you have been to get this far. How much of a warrior you have been.

Each day brings us a whole new possibility. Tomorrow will be better than today.

Scott