Stress Center Peer Support

Hi I am a college student, I didn't really have time to do the program as I wanted, and then finals came, and I stop at week 5 and that was in November, haven't pick it up since, should I start over, I have not been keeping up with my journal, or relaxation cd, Its been really hard, I want to overcome this, I just got off zoloft, and was put on prozac and zantax, ughh, I've been taking my prozac for about a week, and I don't know what to think of it, I been having really bad depression, and anxiety, and as for the zantax I am scared to become addicted, and scared to drive when I on it, but then scared to drive period, its getting really really bad, I can't even drive my son 5 miles to get hime to school, with out having anxienty, I tired of this, I need my life back, Will this ever end???

I am a mother of 3 and am experienceing the same thing you are. I however just startted the program and am still thinking that I need to see professional help from someone that I can actually sit down with. I am thinking that I will incorporate the self help videos with actual one on one thereapy. You may want to consider that option as well. Right now I am on Klonopin because I couldnt handle the xanax nor the zoloft. Though the klonopin seems to be helping somewhat, I want off of it too. For the first hour or so that I take it, i feel drug down and tired and then I feel like it boosts me into the air and I hate the ups and downs of it. I have never been a medicine user and I want my old self back too. My kids dont have fun with me anymore cause I am so jittery and down most of the time and I hate it for them too.

I know this sounds redundant, but be patient. I am on abilify, topamax, and effexor, it takes a little bit of time for the meds to take affect in your system, just use your coping tools until you relax. Just remember to take deep breaths and try to stay calm when driving. Because of my meds I shake real bad and I have to remember to stop the shaking while driving, I just have to tell myself to relax. Watch your caffine intake, that includes chocolate. And acceptance is the key.

If you would have told me a year ago that I would be taking all these different medications I would have told you you were crazy. I seriously went from just BC to now Zoloft, Xanax, Topamax, and Treximet (as a filler). I hate taking meds and am such a nervous freak when it comes to taking them that its sick. The Zoloft takes some time to get used to. I do notice that when it comes time for my second dose in the evening, my body feels ready for it. Don't worry it will get better. If you don't feel it is for you, speak with your dr.

I have been dealing with this probelm for over 20 years and kept telling myself I could handle it myself. What a crock!!! I ordered the program 12 years ago and made it to session 5 and improved enough to be able to function in day to day life. I turned 43 last month and looked in the mirror and realized my self help has me still dealing with anxiety and panic attacks 20 years later. I finally gave up on myself as a healer, Thank God. Made an appointment with a therapist, it was hard to make myself go but I did, He immediately understood my problem and suggested Cognitive behavioural therapy (where have I heard that before)and medication. Sent me to my family physician, who is also a great friend. Needless to say I was very nervous about talking to my Doctor/friend about my condition, felt that it might ruin our relationship. He completely understood and even related his experience with depression and panic attacks while in med school. I couldn't believe that here was my friend a Doctor who I have spent the last 5 years trying to hide my condition from, actually went through the same thing. He started me on Celexa 20mg daily and xanax when needed. I have only been on the Celexa for 2 weeks but already I am feeling much better and am actually doing things now that I have only dreamed of for the last 20 years. I am continuing to see my therapist but I am also restarting the program and trying to stay involved on this board. I feel better now than I have in over 20 years. I guess what I am trying to say is don't be afraid to seek professional help. You are not the only one with this condition, and it is treateable. You have to take the first step and seek help.

Thanks guys I had a really hard nite last nite. I am trying to stay involved in this site as well. You guys are the best. Hooing tonight will be sound.

Hi Anxin Tex....I have come to realize that my anxiety has long been hand in hand with some depression....I am sure that is what it lead to. I read that you are on Celexa. I just started it 2 days ago. I am extremely sensitive to meds, and my doc began me at 5mg for 2 weeks, then 10mg the next 2 weeks. You started right at 20...any side effects for you? I am really tired/nauseas. I am in week 4 of the program. Since I hit this speed bump, I think I may slow down and go thru 4 again.
Thanks, Erin