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Week 9 update

Posted , 4 users are following.

louise1974
louise1974

Hey all again

Following on from my week 6 update I thought I'd post another to give you all hope.  I've been suffering with anxiety/panic/depresison for 20 years on and off.  Been on Seroxat previously a few times which worked good but because of the trouble (in the media etc) they are no longer an option I am or my doctor is willing consider.  Starting out on Citalopram I had the usual side effects: increased anxiety, low mood, panic attacks, headaches, insomnia. After about week 3-4 on the 20mg I really noticed the depression lifting hence the anxiety was less but still a problem but it gave me a break from feeling that horrid constant 24/7 anxiety.  Week 6-7 I really started noticing the anxiety lifting, most days were fine, yes I was still experiencing the aches and pains that anxiety give us, the weird symptoms but my attitude had changed.  The insomnia continued to be an ongoing issue, to the point were I felt like a walking zombie.  On week 8 I started all of a sudden to get my sleep back, looked like crap but at least I was a sleeping.  For a few days it  made me more anxious because my mind had previously been focused on lack of sleep.  

I've just been away at a music festival with friends of ours and their kids (I'm 39) and actually enjoyed it.  Had a few moments of anxiety and not so much sleep because of the snorers etc but I did it!!!!  I still have a way to go but even 4 weeks ago there is no way I would have been able to do this.  I am still getting the weird and wonderful physical pains of anxiety, my main one is pain in my oesphagus (sounds stupid I know). 

So hang in there if you are starting out or half way there it does get better!!! xxx

3 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • ThisIsLife
    ThisIsLife louise1974

    Posted

    Thanks Louise. Day 16 on 10mg and feeling pants some encouragement is always good. Mainly depression and slight anxiety hoping I will feel better soon sad I'm definitely gonna keep going xx 
    • louise1974
      louise1974 ThisIsLife

      Posted

      Early days for you.  And remember 10mg is a introduction dose so don't feel disheartned if you need to up it.  My GP is already telling me I may need to up to 30mg.  This is a new experience for me, I've tried Seroxat in the past 20mg was fine but a different drug.  You will get there.
  • elizabeth20203
    elizabeth20203 louise1974

    Posted

    Hi Louise, encouragement is always good. I started with 20mg of Citalopram about 5 weeks ago, the side effects were too strong so now on 10mg. My anxiety is still there but mainly in the mornings. I too suffered with no sleep and now i am getting a bit more sleep so yes its worth perserving. I am due to see the GP next week for a reveiw so will post again soon. 
  • Adeplume
    Adeplume louise1974

    Posted

    It gets better, believe me. Jeez you poor bird half your life changed by a chemical imbalance. If only there had been better understanding of your condition and medications like Citalopram 20 years ago. Still, remember nothing in life happens without a reason. Good luck with the next half of your life. Try not to focus on the side effects!
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