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Panic attacks, anxiety, guilt, worry, no sleep

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 10/9/2016 4:39 PM (GMT 0)
Hi. I am 48 and for the past few months i have felt guilt ridden all the time and have terrible panic attacks. These used to subside when I went to work but now it is affecting my work too. I have had it over the years but only mildly, but since my mothers' death in 2010 I have struggled somewhat. I only feel 'safe' when i am at home between 6pm and 10pm. After this I become anxious because i know the absolute terror that enters my head after i do manage to drop off to sleep for an hour or so then wake up and then not go back to sleep. The anxiety is unbearable now. Sometimes waiting from 1am to go to work at 6am. I just cannot break this cycle and worry about everything. The doctor has prescribed anti-depressants but not sure if they are helping, also going to counselling. Help !
Posted 10/9/2016 5:11 PM (GMT 0)
Hello and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of the recent increase of your anxiety and panic. We know how difficult this is, so you have come to the right place for understanding.

How long have you been on your A/D, and how many sessions have you had with your therapist?

Both of these treatments do take time to begin to help. SSRI's for example can take from 6-8 weeks to come to therapeutic level...

...and therapy is an ongoing process that varies...but one would generally be at least 10-12 sessions in before noting progress....so try and hang in there!

Please check out our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great self help material. Practicing the suggested exercises daily will make a big difference in how you feel.

Keep posting with us as well if you find it helpful. We are a supportive group who is always there to listen and care!

Talk soon,

Scaredy Cat
Posted 10/9/2016 5:44 PM (GMT 0)
This site helps, i have only been on it a couple of weeks, and i dont feel as scared and alone. unfortunatly i dont share my anx with my loved ones as i dont like to worry them. so talking to peeps on here is good xx
I truely hope you get some respite as it is so delibitating... i feel your pain about work, i usually manage to cope at work but the last 2 weeks have been difficult. but i will beat this and you will too x
I say this after an horrendous day, so low and anxious but my fighting spirit is still in there somewhere .. good luck and hope the tabs kick in soon 😊
Posted 10/9/2016 7:29 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you both very much for your kind words. As you say it is good others understand here and can confide with others. It is a living hell at the moment....
Posted 10/9/2016 7:36 PM (GMT 0)
Sorry cat. 8 weeks on the med and had 4 counselling sessions
Posted 10/9/2016 8:29 PM (GMT 0)
Hi 1027. I'm so, so sorry thing are so tough right now. Reaching out for help is the right thing, and it seems like you're doing that.

At 8 weeks, the medication should be starting to help. It's possible you'll need an increased dose or even to try a different medication. Def give your doc a call and tell them how you've been feeling. Things aren't going to be perfect, but you should feel some improvement after 8 weeks if this is a good medication for you.

I'm glad you're going to counseling too. That can really help.

Try to give yourself lots of grace and space to heal. Be extra kind to yourself, eat an extra treat, and know you're a good person. Strength to you!
Posted 10/9/2016 8:30 PM (GMT 0)
Also, are you seeing your regular primary care doc for your medication or a psychiatrist? If it's your primary care doc, you may also consider if you want to visit a psychiatrist - they're experts in these types of medication. People have success with treatment from both their primary care docs and/or a psychiatrist, so just something to consider! :)
Posted 10/9/2016 9:12 PM (GMT 0)
Do you mind me asking what med your on? I only ask because I had a horrible time with lexapro and at 5 weeks had to immediately go to Paxil 40. I'm at 7 weeks on paxil. Don't get as many panic attacks but have the dread anxiety still. I was told my many that 12 weeks is truly when you'll feel the best on a med and after. Prayers to you as I know how awful this is and I'll pray for you. Sounds like you may need an increase too on meds if your on a low dose.
Also I'm not putting lexapro down I just had a horrible reaction to it.
Posted 10/10/2016 1:59 AM (GMT 0)
Okay, thanks for the info.;)

Keep going with both the meds and therapy. ..

.and do check out our Resources!

Things will get better. :)

S.C.
Posted 10/10/2016 5:12 AM (GMT 0)
Bed at 9 awake at 1030 since. Need to go to work now, I just feel finished and all washed up. This terror will just not relent. I just feel like giving up...
Posted 10/10/2016 5:26 AM (GMT 0)
Please do not give up!!

You are taking the right steps towards your recovery...

You're nearing the end of your start up period for your medication...when things are going to start to improve...

...and with more time in therapy you will really see a difference!

Add in some coping skills/self help, and the support you have here, and you are really in a good place to get through this challenging time.

We are here to cheer you on!

S.C.
Posted 10/10/2016 1:52 PM (GMT 0)
Dont give up and dont give in. You are stronger than you think, I have always said that this anxiety and its issues is a disease of the strong. Because we are darn strong to cope day in and day out with what it throws at us.
Keep it up my friend, I will help with talking to you if that helps .... I hit rock bottom yesterday and had to see my GP this morning, I dont know how i made it there but i did.... And you can do ☺😊😀
Posted 10/10/2016 2:09 PM (GMT 0)
Don't give up 1027AJ, it can get better.

Do you see a Psychiatrist?

Have you told your Dr. about your inability to stay asleep? What could be helpful for you is a Benzodiazepine (Valium, Klonopin, Xanax). These medications help calm the mind and allow you to sleep. They typically are not used long term but could be helpful while you work through things in counseling. Take care.
Posted 10/10/2016 4:26 PM (GMT 0)
It certainly does get a lot better! This site has been absolutely incredible as far as getting support and learning new resources to cope-- definitely check out that page!

Remember: This too shall pass...

This is an incredible support team and we're here whenever you need us!
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