SSRI Withdrawal / Reinstating

Hi,

I am have issues with social anxiety and hypochondria for more than 15 years. 12 years ago I was given Paroxetin (for the last year I only took 5mg) and it helped me quite good though I gained 17kg and had problems with my joints during sports.
I tried to wean off several times and always reinstated after 6 weeks.
Now I tried to taper more carefully and took my time. I achieved 8 weeks and was feeling sometimes good, sometimes not so good until my legs started shaking. I couldn't control it during two nights and had for 4 hours
the worst anxiety of my life. It happened twice and also sleep eluded me. Even a dose of Lorazepam wasn't helping. I was sweating and felt very hot. I tried to call ER but they only told me to "watch TV or to do something else".
Today I decided to reinstate Paxil. I also contacted a local psychosomatic clinic for assistance thas has after work counseling.
Anyway I am very afraid now that I can't get back to my old life. I have 2 kids and a wife and also a decent job in finance.
I would appreciate any comment.

Many thanks,
Phil

Hi Phil

Welcome to the forum.

Sorry to hear of your Rx trouble Paxil is well known for being hard to withdraw from I have done that myself and found it very difficult but eventually managed to get off it by using liquid Paroxetin.

I would look into therapy options such as CBT if you haven't already as it is that which I think you will find most useful.

Keep us posted

Hibee

Phil,

Think of it this way...

My husband has type 1 diabetes. He needs to take insulin to live. If he doesn't take it...he simply can not be healthy.

He can and does practice good habits to keep him well. He watches what he eats/drinks...is active, and keeps up with his medical appointments.

Think of these things like therapy and coping skills that we do for our anxiety...very similar parallel, right?

Now...even with these good practices...he still needs insulin. His pancreas does not produce it...so he must suppliment it.

Some people with anxiety have a deficit of the necessary neurotransmitters in the brain to be healthy and function.

...so applying the same logic...does that make using an Rx for mental health any different than a diabetic taking insulin?

Not in my mind.:)

Hoping for the best in terms of therapy eventually getting you to a place where the meds are not needed is a fine thing...

...but if you ultimatley need your Rx as maintenance...that is okay too.

My husband depends on his meds and takes care of us extremely well!

With understanding and support!

S.C.

By the way, feel free to drop me an e-mail (see profile) if you want to exchange some words about anxiety or any other topic.

Phil,

Yes...feel free to do the same.:) My e-mail is always open!

S.C.