Question about meds

So the past few weeks have been really tough for me anxiety wise. Being sick tends to trigger my anxiety and I had a period of some symptoms that had no explanation so of course my anxiety spiralled. It was a rough few weeks and I probably went to the doctor way too many times (even the ER twice). This week though I am actually feeling way better. Im keeping busy and even faced one of my biggest health anxiety fears the other day without having a panic attack or letting it ruin my day (first bee sting since childhood). Probably such a silly thing for most people but it has always been such a huge fear of mine..

Anyway my doctor has completely lost patience with me because I resist medications for these issues. This week he said he wants me to start on zoloft, propanolol, and klonopin all at the same time. All low doses, and I guess the klonopin he only wants to do for 3 weeks or so to calm me while the zoloft is kicking in. The issue is that I not only have medication anxiety but I also hate the idea of being on a long term medication like an ssri. I've read more negative things about them than positive and I just cant convince myself that taking them is a good idea. Especially because my anxiety cycles and I sometimes have months where I feel perfectly normal.

I feel pressured to take them because the doctor made some comment about being "institutionalized" because I am refusing treatment. I'm angry about this because although I do suffer from anxiety anf sometimes have periods of panic I take good care of my kids, my house is clean, im very active on the weekends and overall feel like I do well functioning. Last week and the week before were tougher than usual but that is not at all the norm for me.

The stigma attached to anxiety is so frustrating. Before I developed thyroid issues I was anxiety free. But when I tell doctors that they clearly do not believe me. I feel like they treat me like a frustrating child and its embarrassing and tiring...

Thanks for reading

Hi Cianna and welcome again.:)

I am really sorry that you are feeling pressure from your doctor. I do feel that medication is a life saver for many people...but it not for everyone, and therefore I find his comment very unprofessional and offensive!

This is ultimately your decision as Karen mentioned.

Some things to consider while making your choice:

Have I tried all aternative methods of anxiety management? Therapy? Self-help?

If after doing so, am I still struggling to the point of needing help, or can I manage my occasional anxiety flares?

Is an as needed (benzo/antihistamine) anxiety Rx something I could consider, just for the breakthrough anxiety days?

Think about all of this before making any decisions. Know that we support you either way...and best wishes on your next step!

S.C.

I too was very hesitant to start taking meds. I finally gave in and started with Buspar - but alone it couldn't cut it so they added a low dose of Zoloft, which did help. I never had weird feelings with any of the meds I was given. After 6 years I decided that I might be better off without them so slowly disengaged from those meds. My doc gave me Klonopin to use as needed - and I have been very, very careful with it - taking only 1/4 - 1/2 tablet when I feel a panic attack coming on - the Klonopin is very helpful - but can make me feel strange if I take more than a half a tablet. Unfortunately I am beginning to think about going on another daily med if they can come up with something that can just relax me enough that I can function throughout the day without thinking of anxiety---I need to get a job that keeps me occupied and busy! I find that when I keep active I am much better off! My suggestion to you is to try some meds - you'll be surprised at how much better you feel. Research what they want you to have prior to conceding..it will make you feel more in control. Best of luck!