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Is mediction the only answer?

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Posted 4/27/2009 7:33 PM (GMT 0)
Hello,

I have a question about medication, I have read many threads and there are all types of medication that appear to be available, how many people on here are fighting anxiety without medication?  I don't take any medication I was offered a mild anti depressant by my GP but, decised against it as I have a fear that in the long run taking anti depressants could do more harm than good.  I'm becomming concerned with my anxiety right now as it seems to be escalating is medication the answer for me?

Thanks

Michelle

Posted 4/27/2009 7:34 PM (GMT 0)
There are alot of methods to deal with anxiety but I've found that I must have medication to be able to even try the other methods. My anxiety is paralyzing without medication.
Posted 4/27/2009 7:42 PM (GMT 0)
Hello! I was fine for years without medication. My life wasn't perfect, but I held a job, kept a relationship going. I've been on Prozac for about 6 years now. I've found on medication my life is "normal". As long as I don't have a setback like what is happening presently.

I would suggest throwing yourself into cognitive behavior therapy, seeing a therapist on a regular basis, changing your diet, cutting out caffeine and practicing relaxation techniques. You must do these things to give it a good chance of working without meds. Many people are fine without medication. But, if you continue having anxiety on a daily basis and it interferes with your life, then I would try the medication that was prescribed for you.

Life is too short for us to suffer. We must do what we can to make each day worth living. Let us know what you decide!
Posted 4/28/2009 12:13 AM (GMT 0)
You don't have to be on the meds for ever, but they can help you feel well enough to truly get well :)
Posted 4/28/2009 4:34 AM (GMT 0)
i would try everything u can first such as talking with a pyscholgist, natural therapies, vitamins such as a vitamin b complex mixed with a positive attitude, really try to stick it out, ive had bad times with anxiety for 4 yrs, ive felt bad and ive felt very good, ive had times where ive felt as though i couldnt feel any healthier, and ive had great times, then the stuff would happen again and i continue to fight it out without meds, but iam nw questioning the possibilties of meds if all else fails, ive been to a psych but it hasnt really worked with my current situations so my next option is to maybe see a few spiritual healers, if not then someone who specializes in anxiety behaviours and irrational thinking, along with joining a support group and if these dont work, then it will be meds!! i try to take as many natural things as humanly possible though! but please dont rush into taking anything straight away, try what u can first.
Posted 4/28/2009 5:14 AM (GMT 0)
I am one of those who is going threw life without the meds. And I will say it is VERY VERY hard. I have a pill phobia. Which makes it extremely hard for me to but any type of med in my mouth that I hadn't taken before I got this burden. I've had horrible responses to meds. But I did have one that worked great. Buspar. My mom was on it for a long time. So the Doc worked with me and had me take 1/4 a pill twice a day. The only side effect.. Was tummy upset. That went away in a week.

But when it comes down to it. It is up to you on how you want to fight this. I prefer for my own sanity to not take meds. I know I need to and I should. But I can't. Not yet. Maybe in time I can handle it.
Do what you think is best for you! You are the one who knows in the end what is best for you. I can suggest yes meds help a lot. They can hinder also. But in the end it does make living through this a lot easier.
Again do what you think will help you the most.
Good luck and welcome. This is a great form and you will find a lot of support.
Posted 4/28/2009 6:46 AM (GMT 0)

it depends on the individual and the situation. For me, as Georgie said, im paralyzed by my anxiety unless im medicated. Not being medicated is not an option for me and ive been doing this since i was 14- but each person is different and there are many avenues of alternative treatments. I would also suggest Cognitive behavioural Therapy, which many here have found helpful.

All the best,

Maz XX

Posted 4/28/2009 11:34 AM (GMT 0)

Good Morning

On HealingWell we strive to seek a balance between alternative and traditional approaches. I feel strongly, both approaches have value for anyone seeking healing.

There are some as has been posted that need to be on medication and others that prefer not to be on Rx medications.

Yes there are alternatives to medication.  Psychotherapy,
also known as talk therapy or counseling, involves receiving help from a mental health provider through a combination of talking and listening.

Evidence shows that cognitive behavior therapy in particular can help improve symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Cognitive behavior therapy helps you identify unhealthy, negative beliefs and behaviors and replace them with healthy, positive ones. It's based on the idea that your own thoughts — not other people or situations — determine how you behave. Even if an unwanted situation doesn't change, you can change the way you think and behave in a positive way. Generally a short-term treatment, cognitive behavior therapy emphasizes learning to develop a sense of mastery and control over your thoughts and feelings.

Treatment for generalized anxiety disorder or any mental illness is tailored to each person. No single treatment regimen works for everyone. Most treatment occurs on an outpatient basis, but some people may need care in a hospital setting.

Take care and keep talking with us.

Kitt 


 

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