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Posted 3/29/2018 2:15 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, thanks for letting me be part of the board. I've read some post and have already learned a few things.

I have had anxiety since I was a really young child. It's somewhat worse now but still it's always been a part of me. I also have a few other health issues which doesn't help. My mental health umm title? is PTSD/anxiety and agoraphobia.


I take wellbutrin as my main med but then a few others that have the side-effect of calming. I took lexapro for several years before that. My Dr. want's me to take abilify now. I was wondering if anyone else took it for anxiety. I haven't started it yet and may not. Those kinds of meds scare me even if they are a very low dose.

I really, really do want to feel better, though. I'm missing out on life and I hate that.
Posted 3/29/2018 4:30 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Lendi an welcome!

We are glad that you have found us! Though sorry it is due to ongoing anxiety challenges. We understand what you are going through...so know that you are not alone.

Does your doctor want to add the Abilify as an augmentation/add on? IOW, you will still be taking your Wellbutrin as your primary Rx?

Additions can usually be taken at low doses, and any s/e's are kept at a minimum...so I think this is at least worth a try...especially if you are not getting the management that you seek on your current regimen.

Are you also practicing self help/therapy skills at this time? This will ensure your best well rounded program to feel your possible best. smile See our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for fresh material if you need some.

Keep posting with us as well if you find it helpful. We will be here to support you in any decision your make...and will keep you encouraged through your journey anytime you need us. smile

Looking forward to getting to know you better!

Scaredy Cat
Posted 3/30/2018 3:16 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you, Scaredy Cat. I will check out the Resource section. I really do want to feel better.

My Dr. thanks I might have Schizoaffective disorder from the phone call I had yesterday. I have had a lot of therapy by different counselors and none of them have suggested that I might have more than PTSD/anxiety and agoraphobia. I have decided to get another opinion at a mental health clinic before I start the med. It's only a few weeks before I'd go see the "med" person at mental health.

I am still supposed to take Wellburtin. I take some other meds that's supposed to help with anxiety but they are meds that can also be used for other health issues as well. He's big on dual purpose meds. Like a blood pressure med (I do have high BP) that I take at night because it can also make you sleepy.

Anyway, Thanks.
Posted 3/30/2018 5:13 PM (GMT 0)
L.,

I would be wary of a new doctor even mentioning a dx of schizophrenic disorder simply from a phone consult...especially if none of your previous doctors never mentioned this possibility.

Please do get that second opinion! I would hate to see you go through the ordeal of an incorrect assessment/diagnosis. (not to mention that your SSRI + augmentation is not the typical Rx treatment for S.D.?!?)

Keep us updated on your progress and we'll be here to support you!

S.C.
Posted 4/4/2018 4:33 PM (GMT 0)
My PCP is who wants to put me on abilify. I've seen him for a few years and at least every 3 months because of other health issues. Mostly, I trust him although I'm not sure but that he adds to my anxiety sometimes. He's great and caring but sometimes goes overboard...like probably now.

The new Dr. will be the one at mental health and also the therapist. I'm going there for that 2nd opinion later this month.

I will let you know what I find out and thank you for caring. I've read a lot and appreciate the information as anxiety is an issue that I'm well aware of.
Posted 4/4/2018 7:35 PM (GMT 0)
Hi

Welcome to the forum.

I agree that you would be best to get a second opinion before you start the Abilify.

I have never taken Abilify but have friends who have and found it to be an effective treatment for anxiety.

Hibee
Posted 4/4/2018 10:41 PM (GMT 0)
I was prescribed abifily when it first came out . I refused to take it . glad I didn't as it turns out I don't need it. at least they realise the dose back then was way to high. the recommended dose is much lower now. still I advise caution with this med. I would do lkie the others say and get a second op. hopefully you can find the right med you need. like scat says-abilify is an add on med usually. I am hoping you can get relief with just the right ONE med. abilify is overkill for just anxiety. its usually added in to treat bipolar episodes. its also very very expencive
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