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Struggling to cope

Posted , 6 users are following.

Sally_66
Sally_66

Hi there. I have found this site so helpful on other matters so I thought I would try this one. I have had a few difficult times in the last year my Dad having a stroke, my mum going into residential care  as in the latter stages of Alzheimer's, my brother suffering a completely unexpected brain abscess with multiple seizures 8 months on and my our major surgery a year ago to remove a rugby ball sized fibroid and hysterectomy.

My GP put me on citalopram at the time of my Dad's stroke as I had to deal with visiting him in hospital, put my mum into care and to top it all he was moving house so I had to manage that too. My employer refused me any compassionate leave (I'm a primary school teacher - so much for the caring professions eh?) so my GP intervened and signed me off work for 3 weeks and treated me with citalopram which I have found very effective. But, just as I'm getting to the stage when I want to come off them other crises have happened. Health issues with my family have settled and I have recovered well from my surgery but I still feel overwhelmed. I teach full time, I'm mum to a 9 year old and have my parents to support. My Dad recovered well from his stroke but he and I regularly visit mum and it is heartbreaking at times. My husband works away from home a lot and I have everything to manage: my job, my son, my parents and all domestic responsibilities. I never get out to socialise and even managing to fit in exercise (diagnosed pre diabetic in May) which is essential to my blood sugar control has become almost impossible. I don't know where to turn to and I daren't give up the citalopram. Does any have any advice?

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • philip28679
    philip28679 Sally_66

    Posted

    Hi Sally

    Laying here unable to sleep reading you post makes my struggle seem miniscule. All I can say is hang on in there take strength from your dad's recovery and your own from surgery. And just take it one day at a time x

  • katie2538
    katie2538 Sally_66

    Posted

    I agree with Phillip, just take it one day at a time and remember to breathe. Sometimes taking a step back and concentrating on your breathing can be the best thing for you. I am so sorry about you and your family's struggles. It may not hurt asking your GP for an anxiety med (xanax, ativan) until things get a little better. We all need help sometimes, that's why we're here. Thinking about you and will send positive vibes your way. Good luck to you!
  • shelley76039
    shelley76039 Sally_66

    Posted

    Sally.... its 2.50 am an I myself can't sleep. I too was on citelpram. Mon died of cancer. ..dad died of dementia ....relationship breakdown .... problems with children. All within 2 yrs. Plus Failed relationships due to anxiety. ..... life challenges us . Good news is I stopped the citlopram....things get a bit better.....ween off these ASAP. Ok 4 short term, It's not easy but u cope. U feel isolated as partner works away . ..... and probably doesn't understand how u feel. U need to find time 4 u. Be active.
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