New member morning panic

This is my first posting so I hope I do it right. After suffering with panic disorder and depression for over 15 years and having it under control it has come back into my life 2 weeks ago. The doctor has started me back on Zoloft and Ativan although it's only been a couple weeks I am really struggling. The mornings are terrible I wake up and instant panic sets in. And then uncontrollable crying. He upped my zoloft to 100 mg. this morning I was shaking and trembling did not feel that when I took 50mg. I may talk to him about taking 75mg. And of course then when I take my Ativan it gets everything under control but that is not something I want to rely on daily forever. Was just wondering what anyone else does in the morning to help stop the crazy panic from starting. Thank you

Post Edited (Barb b well) : 2/3/2015 7:37:28 PM (GMT-7)

Thank you so much for replying. I might try that meditation and exercise. I have heard that does help with anxiety. I'm sorry you're going through the same thing I hope we can get through this.

Thank you Beth I appreciate it. I to find it helps somewhat to get up and get moving get in the shower but nevertheless here it comes. I just wish I could get through The panic without the crying I just get this overwhelming anxiety followed by sadness and cry. Such a sick feeling but thank you so much for the advice.

Hi Barb and welcome!

I am really sorry to hear of the returning A/P issues.;( I know that this has got to be dissapointing. However, know that since you did have recovery and a nice period of feeling good...you can get back to that good place once again.

Cortisol is often the culprit behind morning anxiety. It is the stress hormone that prompts us to get up and moving after sleeping and inactivity for hours. Without it? We'd be laying around in bed all day...so it is good...in the righ amounts.

The problem is that we sometimes produce too much of it, or are sensitive to its effects...thus increased, over the top a.m. anxiety!

Using coping skills as soon as you wake can help. Here are a few from our Resources to try....and they will also help you through your start up, and beyond!

Self Help sites with breathing/relaxation exercises instructions

Panic attack relief exercises:

 

http://www.healthcentral.com/anxiety/c/73076/34334/breathing-lessons/

http://www.healthyplace.com/

http://www.stress-relief-exercises.com/

http://www.ehow.com/video_4405003_breathing-exercises-panic-attacks.html

http://www.psybersquare.com/anxiety/panic_relax_I

I would recommend asking your doctor about backing off to 75 mg. for a couple of weeks, then increasing. There is no rush to reach your theraputic level...and for some people, 'slow as you go' is the best start up plan.

Keep posting with us if you find it helpful. Check out what others have posted...respond if you feel led, and take a look at the rest of the self-help material in our Resources at the top of the main page.:)

Support is key, and we are here to encourage you along your journey...talk soon!

Scaredy Cat

Welcome :) In the mornings, I journal. It helps get what is on my head down on paper.

Thank you all so much for your responses it really helps a lot to discuss things with other people. The morning was rough but I did do the deep breathing seemed to help somewhat but not completely. I know it will take time. The doctor did lower my zoloft down to 75 MG so hopefully that will help. Again thank you And hope you are all having a stress free day.

Welcome Barb! Don't worry about "doing it right" when you post. There's no wrong way. Although we're different ages and come from different walks of life, we're all at some stage of anxiety and here to support and encourage each other how and when it's needed. We're glad you're here and care about you and how you're doing. I'm glad your doctor has adjusted your med and hope things get better for you. I know set backs are frustrating and sometimes worse than previous experiences, but they are just that...set backs. Hang it there!