Stress Center Peer Support

Hey everyone

I just started the tape series of Attacking Anxiety and its really helped even the first two tapes. Heres my problem though:

I was prescribed Zoloft and was on it on and off for about two years. During those two years I would frequently miss doses, stop talking it for a week, etc etc. I have no idea why I didn't just take it as prescribed, I think I got anxious everytime I took the pill, it was almost like admitting to myself that I was depressed and needed medication and that made me MORE depressed.

Regardless I just gave up on it in January but after I did my anxiety like shot through the roof, I now have random panic attacks atleast once a day. I'm really worried that by "playing doctor" with my meds Ive destroyed my brain or something. Could I have caused some permanent damge to my psyche? Or is this just another classic case of OST taking over? Any advice, suggestions, comments would help.

I used to do the same thing with my meds. I've learned that I need the medication to lead a good life. My brain has a chemical imbalance. It's similar to a diabetic, they need insulin because their bodies no longer manufacture it. Why would the brain be any different from any other body part? It too can not produce what is needed. In my opinion medication is a needed tool. My medication has really helped me but it took time and regular use. My Obsessive scary thoughts are better, my depression is better and my anxiety is better. For me, CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy) plus the meds. did the trick. I still have to face fears and I do it. Lucinda's program is great, if you do it, and for me, my medication is vital.

The meds need to be taken on a regular basis. They can give you tremendous help once your get past the initial side effects, taking them every now and then will not do anything other than give you side effects each time you take them, which is probably what is happening to you. I agree the right med with CBT is a great way to help yourself.

I know all these things about meds. I know that you're supposed to take Zoloft on a regular prescribed basis. I didn't. I'm more curious if me abruptly stopping this medication has left some kind of damage on my brain? I was NEVER this anxious or depressed before I went on the medication and in the months Ive been off it I feel terrible.