Thought I would put a 9 week update on to!

Posted , 5 users are following.

So, I've been suffering with anxiety on and for for years but always managed to keep it at bay, however 3 yrs ago it started to get worse then the back end of last year it began to really effect my life. Since Christmas I found myself isolating myself, frightened to make plans etc... In may I went to see my GP she prescribed me 20mg citalopram. I've never taken meds before and didn't realise the journey I was starting! 

Wow! Weeks 1-2 hell, nausea, bad thoughts no appetite, slept like a log as I was taking it before bed. Week 3-4 started to feel slightly better, appetite returned slowly then weeks 5-6 came the shakes, nausea (being my main problem) bad thoughts again, anxiety, almost like a battle with myself. Doubting recovery, questioning if it had fine the right thing. Week 7-8 slightly better, depression fog lifting, more positive, anxiety moved from my tummy to my throat - a tightening sensation. The nausea easing but still anxious on a morning, be it not nearly as bad. Dr then told me I should be further on by now and wNted me to switch to taking it on a morning. Caused me to worry etc.. As she was going to take me off it if I didn't improve. So week 8-9 here we are, pounds better!!! Not 100% but happier in myself, functioning, eating, sleeping, working, seeing friends, much more positive. I've had 3 mornings with very little anxiety and my appetite has returned. (I've lost 2 stone!) I've being seeing a CBT therapist who has made me realise my anxiety is a rottin dirt bag that has stolen my life and I'm getting it back!! I've enrolled I a yoga class and using essential oils to help sleep and calmness is slowly returning - finally!! 

I'm under no illusion that this is probably just the start of recovery and it will take time to be ME again but I'm not dreading it now, I'm going to embrace it. 

This forum has and is amazing support, it gave me hope when all I felt was blackness. I thought I would post my story so others who are frightened about thier journey get comfort from mine. As I did from others! 

Hugs 

Liz xxx

2 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi, Just read your update and feel encouraged by it.I am about 5 weeks of Citalopram and the first three weeks were awful so reduced from 20mg to 10mg. I too had no sleep, appetite oan my anxiety increased. I am now sleeping and eating better. I still have some anxiety mainly in the mornings but its getting less now. I had no friends locally and have joined a social group and hoping to make new friends, all my old so called friends were bringing me down and they didn't want to meet, i decided a fresh start as i would of become more isolated if i didn't make the effort. I have a GP appointment next week so i am hoping to stay on Citalopram for a while as i need something to keep me stable.I realise that friendships and acceptance is what i need, lonelness is awful. I have mobility problems and don't drive so life was becoming difficult but i am not going to let it beat me.  
  • Posted

    I do hope you continue to feel as well as I have on Citalopran.

    I take 10 mg each morning and have done for 2 years. I have had  about 3 relapses in all that time (usually when I have been under pressure and  physically a bit low) but my doctor just recommended upping the does to 20 mg for a week or so.

  • Posted

    Keep going Liz.  Anxiety is debilitating and can actually stop you from doing the stuff that would help but it seems as though youre going in the right direction.  The real problem with depression, anxiety etc., is that there just is NO miracle cure.  It's a long process to get well again and there will always be ups and downs.  Once the side effects dissipate, its important to realise that there will still be times when all is not perfect.  To be honest that's normal human nature.  As long as you feel you can now do things you couldnt before, that's progress.  My best advice, dont try to do too much too soon - little steps as they say - and remind yourself frequently just how much progress you've made rather than asking why you still have bad moments.  Well done !
  • Posted

    Hiya Liz

    what a lovely positive update .....I'm delighted you are now doing so well ! 👍

    I have been feeling much better too for the last couple of weeks and feel the clouds have finally lifted and the sun is shining again !

    YES girl we did it ......we climbed the mountain and you're right....the view is awesome!! 

    Onwards and upwards from here on in .......hooray for positivity and happiness 😊

    Stay well 

    Pamela x

    • Posted

      Pam.... We did it my friend!! We did climb that mountain and your right the clouds are lifting and the view is amazing!! 

      So pleased you are feeling better too☀️☀️It's a crazy journey were on but that will make recovery all the more sweet. 

      Keep stepping Pam, I'm right there with you. 

      Liz xx

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