Physically sick with panic attacks, depersonalization, and daily anxiety

Hello all, After spending a year on Effexor 2005-2006 for panic attacks with relative success, I decided to wean myself off because of the ongoing side effects. After successfully weaning myself off, I spent a good 6 months panic attack free and feeling pretty decent about myself. The severe depersonalization is there on most days as well. I can't tell if the attacks cause it or the DP causes the attacks??

Well, long story short, the attacks started 3 months ago and won't let up. Everytime I get a day or so without one, I will have a day like yesterday where I have a long panic attack all day. I used to take Klonopin in the past for the attacks and it helped almost immediately. However, it seems I no longer respond to the medication so I'm at a loss.

I've been telling myself that I will go back on Effexor the first "chance" I get but there is always something going on. So far this summer, there has been an event that I needed to attend every weekend. I do not want to start during the week, if possible, because I've already affected my career too much with these attacks.

I'm stressing bad right now because we had decided to host Father's Day at my house this weekend. That means lots of stress cleaning up today and tomorrow along with lots of people over on Sunday. I should be looking forward to it as I love my children very much and enjoy seeing my family but all I can think about is how i'm going to have attacks.

Anyone out there had great success with another, newere anti-depressant? What about the physical problems? I have constant aches, pains, headaches, and generally feel like garbage compared to what I should for my situation and age. Is it really true that anxiety and depression can cause all these physical symptoms??


It seems like the benzos aren't going to help me anymore. Oh yea, on a positive note....HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!


James

HI Jaimie,

I agree you should visit with your physician re meds, I have heard good things about Cymbalta and Lexapro. Cymbalta is believed to have a better outcome in controlling anxiety...........but that is only my opinion and I am not a physician.

Bless you.

the valium can be upped for special occasions, its still working but you no longer get the sedation
maybe get back on the effexor at a higher dose and see if it works again, it often does, if not, then experiment with others, IMO the newer ADs arent much or any better than the older ones
best to learn CBT and new anxiety reducing skills, and not just rely on meds
insist on a thorough check up from doc re your other problems, they may be from the stress because you fight and dont float, but there could be other causes
get someone to massage you, books on how to home massage tell how to
spa baths, hot tubs, and jacuzzis also heklp to relax the body
whatever relaxes the body also relaxes the mind

Thanks for the advice everyone! At this point, I think I have no choice but to go back on the Effexor or try something new. I am having a really difficult time concentrating at work due to the panic attacks and physical pain symptoms. I figure the side effects of the medication can't be worse than this! :)

Thanks again!

Jamie