I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Full Version: constant anxiety
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 21 2009, 07:06 PM) 
I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
HI,
It hit me last year, I thought that I wouldn't make it. I am much better now. Take care.
QUOTE (menopaused @ Jul 21 2009, 04:19 PM)
HI,
It hit me last year, I thought that I wouldn't make it. I am much better now. Take care.
It hit me last year, I thought that I wouldn't make it. I am much better now. Take care.
Wow. One response. That's not very reassuring.
I can assure you that I also feel the underlying anxiety constantly along with the depression and I also have to take Ativan daily just to get through the day. Mayb it is worse during those times of the month due to the progesterone being produced, at least that is what I think.
I also feel the underlying anxiety most days. I take anxiety med when it decides to come out with the shaking and wanting to jump out of my body.
alinam,
Are you taking anything for the anxiety..When I was that bad, i was taking ativan 3 times a day , I had to force myself, because i wasnt' able to function.
Have you been to the doctor ? what are you doing about the anxiety ?
Moozie
Are you taking anything for the anxiety..When I was that bad, i was taking ativan 3 times a day , I had to force myself, because i wasnt' able to function.
Have you been to the doctor ? what are you doing about the anxiety ?
Moozie
I also have the underlying anxiety at all times hence I am on zoloft everyday and have been for 10 years. I noticed that during the week before my period and the week following it is worse than the other w weeks of the month.
Jeaninne
Jeaninne
Hi i had it bad in 2007. Lasted around 9 months. i am much better since i am on zoloft and a low dose of xanax. Hang in there it will get better.
Ali
I have had this for over 2 years now - manage it with klonipin 1/2 a 5mg pill 2x a day and it still breaks through. i dont cycle regularly so I have no idea anymore if its related to my cycle or not. It has morphed into an ocd like condition. So darling,you do have company. Having said this I do have days (moments) here and there where I feel remarkably OK but the moon and stars have to be aligned in order for me to not be thinking anxiously.
With kind thougts for you...
pooks
ps pm me if you would like for more sisterhood!
I have had this for over 2 years now - manage it with klonipin 1/2 a 5mg pill 2x a day and it still breaks through. i dont cycle regularly so I have no idea anymore if its related to my cycle or not. It has morphed into an ocd like condition. So darling,you do have company. Having said this I do have days (moments) here and there where I feel remarkably OK but the moon and stars have to be aligned in order for me to not be thinking anxiously.
With kind thougts for you...
pooks
ps pm me if you would like for more sisterhood!
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 22 2009, 02:06 AM)
I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Dear 'alinam'
As I was completely 'cycled out' at 39!am unable to comment on that part!.
Anxiety does go had in hand with fluctuating Hormones so yes there will be some better days than others.It could also be that you might need to consider HRT or BHRT if you are open to that.
it is possible that your dosage of Zoloft is not working effectively enough ,the Prescribing Doctor may need to up the dose or try you on a new one.
I also use Xanax,on an as needed basis.It is very effective
Do not give up till you find answers
Please let us know
Warm Wishes
Elizabeth
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 21 2009, 07:06 PM)
I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
consider your self lucky if youve gone 5 yrs with out adjusting your dose !!!it is probably time to up the dosage as our bodies have a tolerance level that constantly change, what works at one level in time will not work in time ,so you up the level and your body adjusts to that level!!! good luck dear
Are you on any hormones? I am on Celexa for anxiety/panic for the second time in my life. I noticed it didn't work as well this time but going on low dose bcps SEEMS to helping the celexa work better now. I did read that some women need some estrogen for the SSRIs to work effectively. I do still have bad days that I take xanax for as needed.
QUOTE (moozie @ Jul 21 2009, 09:25 PM)
alinam,
Are you taking anything for the anxiety..When I was that bad, i was taking ativan 3 times a day , I had to force myself, because i wasnt' able to function.
Have you been to the doctor ? what are you doing about the anxiety ?
Moozie
Are you taking anything for the anxiety..When I was that bad, i was taking ativan 3 times a day , I had to force myself, because i wasnt' able to function.
Have you been to the doctor ? what are you doing about the anxiety ?
Moozie
I'm currently on 75 mg of zoloft and had to step up very slowly because the anxiety would get worse with every dose increase. I've been reading on the board about people's success with celexa and have considered that, but I tried lexapro and the anxiety increase with that was horrible (tapering off was even worse). I've seen my primary doc and her nurse practitioner numerous times, psychiatrist every month or more often, counselor every two weeks, and three gyn's. I've tried EFT and just felt silly, no place to meditate, breathing exercises don't seem to work (but I'm still trying). Most of the time when I pray it just comes out, "Why won't you let this end?"
Don't know where to go from here.
I too have the anxiety all day now. I also have been on just 10mg of Paxil for about 12 years. I originally took it for panic attacks, hyperventilation. It worked for me in two weeks and I functioned great on it for 10 years. Now two years ago it doesn't do a thing. Therapist upped the dose but it didn't work. I have constant tight stomach, ibs, panic attack fishing which is something I do every summer on a party boat and was always relaxed. Even when my daughter and son-in-law come over I get extreme anxiety because I only see them every few weeks and I feel like I should be my old self and happy and fun and like the old mom I was. But itj's so hard because I also feel like it takes so much out of me now just to talk that by the time they leave I have diahrrhea and hyperventilating the whole time and the huge knot in stomach. I know it has to be peri because this all came back again when I started the night sweats, heavy periods coming only 23 days apart where it used to be 30. And I'm also 51. So if it's not from peri I don't know what it's from. I'm wondering if another ssri might work again. I just wake up each day and do my relaxation tapes and all little mind tricks to try to get through the day. But I don't even have peace at night from jumping up from what feels like I'm tighening my stomach in sleep also. Reminds me of that song . "Momma never told me they'll be days like these". LoL.
I have not had an actual period since 3/07 but my worst days of anxiety follow a cycle. Anxiety can strike at any time but those days when I find myself curled into a ball and stuck to the couch shaking or moaning in the car on the way to work are usually at a certain place in the month.
I can tell because of my HRT pack. The pills are the same to take every day so it's something in me. Before I started taking them it was pretty constant. Now I'm down to those 3-4 days and whenever I'm stressed, tired, angry, etc. It seems to be an aftereffect of any extreme in my life. So I'm trying to live a very bland life and recognize those days for what they are and get through them.
I can tell because of my HRT pack. The pills are the same to take every day so it's something in me. Before I started taking them it was pretty constant. Now I'm down to those 3-4 days and whenever I'm stressed, tired, angry, etc. It seems to be an aftereffect of any extreme in my life. So I'm trying to live a very bland life and recognize those days for what they are and get through them.
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 21 2009, 05:06 PM)
I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 21 2009, 06:06 PM)
I've been reading and posting on the PS boards for a couple months now and almost exclusively in the anxiety sections. Most of you anxious ladies have probably already read my story so I won't repeat the WHOLE thing. Something I've noticed, though is that most of the PS ladies seem to have "bad days" with anxiety/panic all day or a few hours a day. My anxiety seems to have been constant with worsening from "ovulation" to a couple days into my period. The zoloft dose I'm on seems to be helping a little but I'm still having to take ativan three times a day just to keep the anxiety at bay.
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Is this really perimenopause aggravating my anxiety disorder? I was under such good control on my little 20mg of paxil for five years that I'm just floored at how horrible I feel every day.
So (this doesn't sound right, but) are there other peri ladies out there who have the anxiety all the time but it's worse during part of your cycle?
Hi there
In 2001 I had my first panic attack, I had experienced anxiety but nothing like this. It began while driving on the highway, I had no idea what it signified. I began to suffer from pretty regular panic attacks, was diagnosed with panic disorder (severe) and put on an anti-psychotic, anti-anxiety and sent for psychotherapy.
The anti-psychotic helped me to overcome the agoraphobia I developed through time, and I still take the anti-anxiety as needed (Xanax) but the psychotherapy was the most useless AND useful tool for me. It was through mundane judgmentality of my shrink that I rediscovered my voice, in the ability to tell her off one day. I had not stood up for myself in so long, and finally was so tired of her analysing me, judging me, I was amazed to hear myself defending myself! I walked out of her office a relatively 'new' woman.
It wasn't until the last few years that I was diagnosed with peri, and yes it did change the way my panic behaves. Before Peri my panic was horrible. Now it is manageable, but I can not attribute that to the peri, It is through my dedication to myself, meditation, breathing, and looking at the skeletons in my closet (triggers) that I have been able to find peace with my panic.
I think it is important to put this sort of thing into perspective. I remember when I was in the midst of the murk I just wanted to be "normal" again. I would feel a panic response and send myself over the edge worrying about having a panic attack. It was my fear of having an attack that would bring one on. I'd black out, have heart pain, end up having emotional breakdowns, and eventually could not leave my house.
It took a couple of years for me to get back to "good" within myself. And in that time I was meditating daily, examining my abusive childhood, and learning to accept and love myself again after many years of critical self-loathing.
Ativan never really helped me, the Xanax is very similar apparently but for me personally I find the Xanax is more helpful for a quick aid when I have onset. I am back on anti-depressants after a couple years off, due to some health issues this year which I was not coping well with. But nothing helps like some honest introspection, because when our hormones go haywire and send our chemicals surging it is best to be in a good place emotionally regarding who you are. Any baggage or closet lurkers will only amplify the horror you experience.
Keep on keeping on, I send you my best wishes and big hugs. This too WILL pass - I promise you. At one point I wanted to die because I was so afraid, but the sun rises... the clouds do part.
In Love,
Dee
thank you all for your replies.
I've discovered so many skeletons I could open a haunted house. I'm just not sure that I know how to deal with any of them.
I did increase my zoloft dose to 100 mg and I THINK I feel a little better today. I think. . .
I've discovered so many skeletons I could open a haunted house. I'm just not sure that I know how to deal with any of them.
I did increase my zoloft dose to 100 mg and I THINK I feel a little better today. I think. . .
QUOTE (Starchild @ Jul 24 2009, 01:50 PM)
Hi there
In 2001 I had my first panic attack, I had experienced anxiety but nothing like this. It began while driving on the highway, I had no idea what it signified. I began to suffer from pretty regular panic attacks, was diagnosed with panic disorder (severe) and put on an anti-psychotic, anti-anxiety and sent for psychotherapy.
The anti-psychotic helped me to overcome the agoraphobia I developed through time, and I still take the anti-anxiety as needed (Xanax) but the psychotherapy was the most useless AND useful tool for me. It was through mundane judgmentality of my shrink that I rediscovered my voice, in the ability to tell her off one day. I had not stood up for myself in so long, and finally was so tired of her analysing me, judging me, I was amazed to hear myself defending myself! I walked out of her office a relatively 'new' woman.
It wasn't until the last few years that I was diagnosed with peri, and yes it did change the way my panic behaves. Before Peri my panic was horrible. Now it is manageable, but I can not attribute that to the peri, It is through my dedication to myself, meditation, breathing, and looking at the skeletons in my closet (triggers) that I have been able to find peace with my panic.
I think it is important to put this sort of thing into perspective. I remember when I was in the midst of the murk I just wanted to be "normal" again. I would feel a panic response and send myself over the edge worrying about having a panic attack. It was my fear of having an attack that would bring one on. I'd black out, have heart pain, end up having emotional breakdowns, and eventually could not leave my house.
It took a couple of years for me to get back to "good" within myself. And in that time I was meditating daily, examining my abusive childhood, and learning to accept and love myself again after many years of critical self-loathing.
Ativan never really helped me, the Xanax is very similar apparently but for me personally I find the Xanax is more helpful for a quick aid when I have onset. I am back on anti-depressants after a couple years off, due to some health issues this year which I was not coping well with. But nothing helps like some honest introspection, because when our hormones go haywire and send our chemicals surging it is best to be in a good place emotionally regarding who you are. Any baggage or closet lurkers will only amplify the horror you experience.
Keep on keeping on, I send you my best wishes and big hugs. This too WILL pass - I promise you. At one point I wanted to die because I was so afraid, but the sun rises... the clouds do part.
In Love,
Dee
In 2001 I had my first panic attack, I had experienced anxiety but nothing like this. It began while driving on the highway, I had no idea what it signified. I began to suffer from pretty regular panic attacks, was diagnosed with panic disorder (severe) and put on an anti-psychotic, anti-anxiety and sent for psychotherapy.
The anti-psychotic helped me to overcome the agoraphobia I developed through time, and I still take the anti-anxiety as needed (Xanax) but the psychotherapy was the most useless AND useful tool for me. It was through mundane judgmentality of my shrink that I rediscovered my voice, in the ability to tell her off one day. I had not stood up for myself in so long, and finally was so tired of her analysing me, judging me, I was amazed to hear myself defending myself! I walked out of her office a relatively 'new' woman.
It wasn't until the last few years that I was diagnosed with peri, and yes it did change the way my panic behaves. Before Peri my panic was horrible. Now it is manageable, but I can not attribute that to the peri, It is through my dedication to myself, meditation, breathing, and looking at the skeletons in my closet (triggers) that I have been able to find peace with my panic.
I think it is important to put this sort of thing into perspective. I remember when I was in the midst of the murk I just wanted to be "normal" again. I would feel a panic response and send myself over the edge worrying about having a panic attack. It was my fear of having an attack that would bring one on. I'd black out, have heart pain, end up having emotional breakdowns, and eventually could not leave my house.
It took a couple of years for me to get back to "good" within myself. And in that time I was meditating daily, examining my abusive childhood, and learning to accept and love myself again after many years of critical self-loathing.
Ativan never really helped me, the Xanax is very similar apparently but for me personally I find the Xanax is more helpful for a quick aid when I have onset. I am back on anti-depressants after a couple years off, due to some health issues this year which I was not coping well with. But nothing helps like some honest introspection, because when our hormones go haywire and send our chemicals surging it is best to be in a good place emotionally regarding who you are. Any baggage or closet lurkers will only amplify the horror you experience.
Keep on keeping on, I send you my best wishes and big hugs. This too WILL pass - I promise you. At one point I wanted to die because I was so afraid, but the sun rises... the clouds do part.
In Love,
Dee
Thank you for sharing. I am struggling terribly with health anxiety. Afraid of medical tests, doctors, blood work. Any new ache and pain sends me into a tizzy. I am in a deep depression and try very hard to ride out the daily anxiety and panic without meds, but decided I cannot for now. I give in to taking the Xanax usually no more than 1 1/2 tabs (less than 1 mg) per day. Going to Psyche Dr. today to ask for an AD to try and get this a bit under control so I can function and make rational decisions not based in immense fear. I feel out of control and paralyzed. All these weird feelings and aches and pains freak me out. I have always been a resiliant person, went through a 12 year abusive relationship and functioned well. Had a crappy childhood, but, oh well. Can this stuff come back to kick you in the a$$ after all those years? I wonder. Can women get through this without hormones. My hormone Dr. wants me to do an pelvic ultrasound before RX me any BHRT, which I fully understand intellectually. However, emotionally that puts me in a tailspin. I have got to get control so I can do these things I need to do to feel better. Thanks for listening and for sharing.
QUOTE (michuganna @ Aug 5 2009, 01:29 PM)
Thank you for sharing. I am struggling terribly with health anxiety. Afraid of medical tests, doctors, blood work. Any new ache and pain sends me into a tizzy. I am in a deep depression and try very hard to ride out the daily anxiety and panic without meds, but decided I cannot for now. I give in to taking the Xanax usually no more than 1 1/2 tabs (less than 1 mg) per day. Going to Psyche Dr. today to ask for an AD to try and get this a bit under control so I can function and make rational decisions not based in immense fear. I feel out of control and paralyzed. All these weird feelings and aches and pains freak me out. I have always been a resiliant person, went through a 12 year abusive relationship and functioned well. Had a crappy childhood, but, oh well. Can this stuff come back to kick you in the a$$ after all those years? I wonder. Can women get through this without hormones. My hormone Dr. wants me to do an pelvic ultrasound before RX me any BHRT, which I fully understand intellectually. However, emotionally that puts me in a tailspin. I have got to get control so I can do these things I need to do to feel better. Thanks for listening and for sharing.
Mich
I'm so sorry to hear you're going through this, too. The only hormones I tried were low dose BCP's because my doctor said I was probably responding to the roller coaster of hormones that comes with peri, but with the one she put me on, I felt even worse. When I asked for a different bcp she said to keep taking it, she didn't think the problems I was having were because of the type of bcp, so I quit taking it altogether.
Anxiety really stinks, and, yes, I do think having a crappy childhood and surviving an abusive relationship can come back with a vengeance. Those are some of the skeletons I need to deal with myself. I read once that children that grow up with chronic worry can develop long-term issues with low serotonin. Don't know whether it's true but it makes sense to me.
Good luck with the psych. Dr. I hope you find something that will help fast.
Angela
QUOTE (alinam @ Aug 5 2009, 05:14 PM)
Mich
I'm so sorry to hear you're going through this, too. The only hormones I tried were low dose BCP's because my doctor said I was probably responding to the roller coaster of hormones that comes with peri, but with the one she put me on, I felt even worse. When I asked for a different bcp she said to keep taking it, she didn't think the problems I was having were because of the type of bcp, so I quit taking it altogether.
Anxiety really stinks, and, yes, I do think having a crappy childhood and surviving an abusive relationship can come back with a vengeance. Those are some of the skeletons I need to deal with myself. I read once that children that grow up with chronic worry can develop long-term issues with low serotonin. Don't know whether it's true but it makes sense to me.
Good luck with the psych. Dr. I hope you find something that will help fast.
Angela
I'm so sorry to hear you're going through this, too. The only hormones I tried were low dose BCP's because my doctor said I was probably responding to the roller coaster of hormones that comes with peri, but with the one she put me on, I felt even worse. When I asked for a different bcp she said to keep taking it, she didn't think the problems I was having were because of the type of bcp, so I quit taking it altogether.
Anxiety really stinks, and, yes, I do think having a crappy childhood and surviving an abusive relationship can come back with a vengeance. Those are some of the skeletons I need to deal with myself. I read once that children that grow up with chronic worry can develop long-term issues with low serotonin. Don't know whether it's true but it makes sense to me.
Good luck with the psych. Dr. I hope you find something that will help fast.
Angela
I don't understand why your Dr. wouldn't simply try you on a different BCP, how could it matter to her. What should have mattered is how you feel and trying to help you feel better. When we are going through this our energy levels to fight for ourselves is so diminished. You just figure what's the point in fighting with the Dr. I hope the Dr. can help me too. I fear that i won't find the right med to help me out of this. But, I won't know unless I try I guess. I just hope I don't get even loopier than I am. Pray for me. Good luck to you as well. I think I have always had some kind of low level anxiety that I controlled. I finally married the most wonderful man in the world 4 years ago and honestly as weird as it sounds being happy is such a foreign feeling to me I have almost been uncomfortable with it. Too many good things were happening in my life I just waited for the other shoe to drop like it always had before. Perhaps I am creating this reality. Well, that and my bottoming out hormones.
QUOTE (michuganna @ Aug 5 2009, 02:22 PM)
I don't understand why your Dr. wouldn't simply try you on a different BCP, how could it matter to her. What should have mattered is how you feel and trying to help you feel better. When we are going through this our energy levels to fight for ourselves is so diminished. You just figure what's the point in fighting with the Dr. I hope the Dr. can help me too. I fear that i won't find the right med to help me out of this. But, I won't know unless I try I guess. I just hope I don't get even loopier than I am. Pray for me. Good luck to you as well. I think I have always had some kind of low level anxiety that I controlled. I finally married the most wonderful man in the world 4 years ago and honestly as weird as it sounds being happy is such a foreign feeling to me I have almost been uncomfortable with it. Too many good things were happening in my life I just waited for the other shoe to drop like it always had before. Perhaps I am creating this reality. Well, that and my bottoming out hormones.
I don't think it's that my Dr. doesn't care, it's that she was in a hurry and was convinced that I was just having anxiety attacks. She tried to get in touch with my psychiatrist that day but he wouldn't call her back. So now I've made an appt. with the psych nurse practitioner that was recommended to me, but he's booked up for over a month.
I've had anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember and started having panic attacks in my twenties. I knew it ran in the family so I figured it was biochemical. I managed to get onto medications that helped, although, right now, I can't remember what I was on long term back then because I always seemed to have trouble with side effects, so I would wean off the med. and do so-so for awhile. When I got onto the paxil five years ago, I had finally decided that the general anxiety disorder diagnosis wasn't going to go away, so I would be on medication forever. I was ok with that as long as it worked to keep the panic attacks and anxiety away. I didn't realize that I had never gotten relief from the depression. That on top of peri--ack!! What a nightmare!
I will pray for you to find quick and long lasting relief.
Angela
Hi everyone, I was on this site often three years ago trying to find out how to deal with "menopause" symptoms. I want to bring to your attention the possibility of LYME DISEASE. I was shirked off by every doctor because I was going through menopause. I knew in my mind it could not "just" be meno. I was going crazy with severe sudden anxiety, neck and shoulder pain, jaw pain, shaking, heart palps, headaches and head pressure and agreed to try HRT when periods suddenly stopped. However, after years of still feeling the same, I went from dr. to dr. and finally have been diagnosed with lyme disease. Please google or search lyme disease and make sure you are not dismissing all of your symptoms as menopause as they overlap with lyme !! I wish someone had mentioned it to me and I wouldn't be in the predictament I would be in now. Best of luck to you. Feel better!!
QUOTE (alinam @ Jul 22 2009, 11:22 AM)
I'm currently on 75 mg of zoloft and had to step up very slowly because the anxiety would get worse with every dose increase. I've been reading on the board about people's success with celexa and have considered that, but I tried lexapro and the anxiety increase with that was horrible (tapering off was even worse). I've seen my primary doc and her nurse practitioner numerous times, psychiatrist every month or more often, counselor every two weeks, and three gyn's. I've tried EFT and just felt silly, no place to meditate, breathing exercises don't seem to work (but I'm still trying). Most of the time when I pray it just comes out, "Why won't you let this end?"
Don't know where to go from here.
Don't know where to go from here.
I so totally get that. I'm not currently on any anti-depressant, although my therapist is strongly suggesting it, but I have had anxiety/panic just about my entire life. Fortunately, it was only bad at the onset (when I was 15 and hormonal) and pretty much stayed in the background until a few years back. Now that I am 50 and hormonal again - it's really reared it's ugly head. When I am feeling particularly anxious I try all of the techniques I'm supposed to use, deep breathing, tense/relax exercise and I cry out to God to help me with it. I end up taking a xanax and I guess, at least for now, I praise God I have that!
I'm sorry, I don't know what to tell you other than, I understand and you are most certainly not alone.
Joan
QUOTE (alinam @ Aug 5 2009, 07:02 PM)
I don't think it's that my Dr. doesn't care, it's that she was in a hurry and was convinced that I was just having anxiety attacks. She tried to get in touch with my psychiatrist that day but he wouldn't call her back. So now I've made an appt. with the psych nurse practitioner that was recommended to me, but he's booked up for over a month.
I've had anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember and started having panic attacks in my twenties. I knew it ran in the family so I figured it was biochemical. I managed to get onto medications that helped, although, right now, I can't remember what I was on long term back then because I always seemed to have trouble with side effects, so I would wean off the med. and do so-so for awhile. When I got onto the paxil five years ago, I had finally decided that the general anxiety disorder diagnosis wasn't going to go away, so I would be on medication forever. I was ok with that as long as it worked to keep the panic attacks and anxiety away. I didn't realize that I had never gotten relief from the depression. That on top of peri--ack!! What a nightmare!
I will pray for you to find quick and long lasting relief.
Angela
I've had anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember and started having panic attacks in my twenties. I knew it ran in the family so I figured it was biochemical. I managed to get onto medications that helped, although, right now, I can't remember what I was on long term back then because I always seemed to have trouble with side effects, so I would wean off the med. and do so-so for awhile. When I got onto the paxil five years ago, I had finally decided that the general anxiety disorder diagnosis wasn't going to go away, so I would be on medication forever. I was ok with that as long as it worked to keep the panic attacks and anxiety away. I didn't realize that I had never gotten relief from the depression. That on top of peri--ack!! What a nightmare!
I will pray for you to find quick and long lasting relief.
Angela
Just got back from Dr. He RX me Lexapro, he says he has had success with it with other hormonal women. I had tried Prozac but it exasperated my anxiety, so I got off of it. Then it seems like I was back under control somewhat so left it at that. Then about a month ago this crud started up again. So, tomorrow is the first day, I'm a little nervous. I am comfie with taking Xanax cause its in and out of my system. He says I will probably be tired, but, I'm okay with that usually I am wired up and anxious. Keep your fingers and toes crossed that this helps. I've probably always had a low grade depression, I guess I just was pretty functional with it. The anxiety and panic is a new thing for me and THAT is something I cannot function with whatsoever. Hang in there, I know depression can really kick your butt too. I got hit really bad with it this go around with the anxiety and panic, so I feel you.
Hugs
Mich
QUOTE (Starchild @ Jul 24 2009, 12:50 PM)
Hi there
In 2001 I had my first panic attack, I had experienced anxiety but nothing like this. It began while driving on the highway, I had no idea what it signified. I began to suffer from pretty regular panic attacks, was diagnosed with panic disorder (severe) and put on an anti-psychotic, anti-anxiety and sent for psychotherapy.
The anti-psychotic helped me to overcome the agoraphobia I developed through time, and I still take the anti-anxiety as needed (Xanax) but the psychotherapy was the most useless AND useful tool for me. It was through mundane judgmentality of my shrink that I rediscovered my voice, in the ability to tell her off one day. I had not stood up for myself in so long, and finally was so tired of her analysing me, judging me, I was amazed to hear myself defending myself! I walked out of her office a relatively 'new' woman.
It wasn't until the last few years that I was diagnosed with peri, and yes it did change the way my panic behaves. Before Peri my panic was horrible. Now it is manageable, but I can not attribute that to the peri, It is through my dedication to myself, meditation, breathing, and looking at the skeletons in my closet (triggers) that I have been able to find peace with my panic.
I think it is important to put this sort of thing into perspective. I remember when I was in the midst of the murk I just wanted to be "normal" again. I would feel a panic response and send myself over the edge worrying about having a panic attack. It was my fear of having an attack that would bring one on. I'd black out, have heart pain, end up having emotional breakdowns, and eventually could not leave my house.
It took a couple of years for me to get back to "good" within myself. And in that time I was meditating daily, examining my abusive childhood, and learning to accept and love myself again after many years of critical self-loathing.
Ativan never really helped me, the Xanax is very similar apparently but for me personally I find the Xanax is more helpful for a quick aid when I have onset. I am back on anti-depressants after a couple years off, due to some health issues this year which I was not coping well with. But nothing helps like some honest introspection, because when our hormones go haywire and send our chemicals surging it is best to be in a good place emotionally regarding who you are. Any baggage or closet lurkers will only amplify the horror you experience.
Keep on keeping on, I send you my best wishes and big hugs. This too WILL pass - I promise you. At one point I wanted to die because I was so afraid, but the sun rises... the clouds do part.
In Love,
Dee
In 2001 I had my first panic attack, I had experienced anxiety but nothing like this. It began while driving on the highway, I had no idea what it signified. I began to suffer from pretty regular panic attacks, was diagnosed with panic disorder (severe) and put on an anti-psychotic, anti-anxiety and sent for psychotherapy.
The anti-psychotic helped me to overcome the agoraphobia I developed through time, and I still take the anti-anxiety as needed (Xanax) but the psychotherapy was the most useless AND useful tool for me. It was through mundane judgmentality of my shrink that I rediscovered my voice, in the ability to tell her off one day. I had not stood up for myself in so long, and finally was so tired of her analysing me, judging me, I was amazed to hear myself defending myself! I walked out of her office a relatively 'new' woman.
It wasn't until the last few years that I was diagnosed with peri, and yes it did change the way my panic behaves. Before Peri my panic was horrible. Now it is manageable, but I can not attribute that to the peri, It is through my dedication to myself, meditation, breathing, and looking at the skeletons in my closet (triggers) that I have been able to find peace with my panic.
I think it is important to put this sort of thing into perspective. I remember when I was in the midst of the murk I just wanted to be "normal" again. I would feel a panic response and send myself over the edge worrying about having a panic attack. It was my fear of having an attack that would bring one on. I'd black out, have heart pain, end up having emotional breakdowns, and eventually could not leave my house.
It took a couple of years for me to get back to "good" within myself. And in that time I was meditating daily, examining my abusive childhood, and learning to accept and love myself again after many years of critical self-loathing.
Ativan never really helped me, the Xanax is very similar apparently but for me personally I find the Xanax is more helpful for a quick aid when I have onset. I am back on anti-depressants after a couple years off, due to some health issues this year which I was not coping well with. But nothing helps like some honest introspection, because when our hormones go haywire and send our chemicals surging it is best to be in a good place emotionally regarding who you are. Any baggage or closet lurkers will only amplify the horror you experience.
Keep on keeping on, I send you my best wishes and big hugs. This too WILL pass - I promise you. At one point I wanted to die because I was so afraid, but the sun rises... the clouds do part.
In Love,
Dee
Wow, beautifully put Dee, thanks for sharing. I have been living with, and managing anxiety for over 10 years now, brought on by a personal trauma. Up until two years ago I could go weeks and months without an attack or feeling like I needed any meds to get me through it, but since I fell deep into full menopause (literally went from heavy periods to no period for 18 months now) I have anxiety attacks all the time. I try to manage with supplements, lots of exercise, soy, flax, you name it, but I now have the dreaded insomnia that will not let go (Lunesta 1 mg for that) so I hear everything you all are saying!
Its interesting because most women here on PS are taking or have taken anxiety medication, antidepressants or something else for all the negative stuff with peri and meno, but my family gives me SOSOSO much grief about "needing drugs to manage or go to sleep" that I actually alittle ashamed for it. I have a doctor that's really great, but my insurance doesn't cover most of the medications so I struggle with how to afford the very thing that seems to do any good. Anyone else have problems with family understanding what it is we go through?
I can say that there are goods days and when I have one I am so grateful! I do believe this will all end someday, just wish like everyone it would hurry up!
twistoffate
I know actually what you mean. I'm 46 and 6 years without a period and also have anxiety almost all my life. I was hit hard back in sept. with a major stressor and couldn't recover. I was in the hospital for a week. I had to be on AD's and benzo's. I also had a hard time sleeping so I was put on Ambien CR for 6 months and my family gave me a hard time saying I was on too many drugs. I finally got off of Ambien and now only take Paxil and Klonopin at night which it so nice. Imay just be addicted to the klonopin at night but without sleep I suffer the next day. I'm not sure how long I will be on AD's but for now quality of life is important....
I know actually what you mean. I'm 46 and 6 years without a period and also have anxiety almost all my life. I was hit hard back in sept. with a major stressor and couldn't recover. I was in the hospital for a week. I had to be on AD's and benzo's. I also had a hard time sleeping so I was put on Ambien CR for 6 months and my family gave me a hard time saying I was on too many drugs. I finally got off of Ambien and now only take Paxil and Klonopin at night which it so nice. Imay just be addicted to the klonopin at night but without sleep I suffer the next day. I'm not sure how long I will be on AD's but for now quality of life is important....
QUOTE (chaotichar @ Aug 6 2009, 09:51 AM)
twistoffate
I know actually what you mean. I'm 46 and 6 years without a period and also have anxiety almost all my life. I was hit hard back in sept. with a major stressor and couldn't recover. I was in the hospital for a week. I had to be on AD's and benzo's. I also had a hard time sleeping so I was put on Ambien CR for 6 months and my family gave me a hard time saying I was on too many drugs. I finally got off of Ambien and now only take Paxil and Klonopin at night which it so nice. Imay just be addicted to the klonopin at night but without sleep I suffer the next day. I'm not sure how long I will be on AD's but for now quality of life is important....
I know actually what you mean. I'm 46 and 6 years without a period and also have anxiety almost all my life. I was hit hard back in sept. with a major stressor and couldn't recover. I was in the hospital for a week. I had to be on AD's and benzo's. I also had a hard time sleeping so I was put on Ambien CR for 6 months and my family gave me a hard time saying I was on too many drugs. I finally got off of Ambien and now only take Paxil and Klonopin at night which it so nice. Imay just be addicted to the klonopin at night but without sleep I suffer the next day. I'm not sure how long I will be on AD's but for now quality of life is important....
Ah, "quality of life." That's such an interesting phrase isn't it? I feel that after living with all these symptoms and each day being a battle to just stay level and sane has me wondering if I'll ever really know what quality living is again
I take .50 mg of Xanax and 1 mg of Lunesta at bedtime and have been trying to wean off the Lunesta for two weeks now. The cost without insurance is insane, and to take that money away from my strict family budget is depressing in and of itself, not to mention even taking it I only get maybe sick hours but wake with hot flashes even still. The Xanax is to deal with the raging anxiety I get at bedtime, of course always freaked out I won't get any sleep. So there goes the saga... doctor wants me to increase both meds for effectiveness, but I won't because I'm already dependent on this small does - increasing will only make it worse. Antidepressants are out for me because I'm not depressed and the weight gain is not an option - I run competitively and can't afford the extra pounds.I've started a book "Say Goodnight to Insomnia" by Gregg Jacobs; claims to conquer insomnia and stop the cycle of addicting meds for sleep... we'll see, I'll let you know if it works
I know to come off the Xanax will be SOSOSO hard and what then? Living with panic everyday until this menopause is finally over? I just don't see how being sick and miserable is a better option, but the whole "addicted to" stuff weighs on me too.
When I first realized that the AD's weren't getting rid of my anxiety like they used to and I was going to have to take ativan on a regular basis, I went to my pdoc and sobbed in her office about being addicted. I'm still upset that I have the anxiety and sometimes fight to wait just one more hour before I take it, but most days I realize that I have to take it to function. I'm the breadwinner in the family right now and I can't do anything to jeopardize my family. I, too, have issues with spending so much money on doctor's appointments and medications when money is so tight. My kids haven't been able to do nearly as much when out of school this summer because of me.
And, yes, Twist, I know what it's like to have "family" (mostly my husband) not understand what I'm going through. It's not because he doesn't try, but it's like mental illness, how could someone possibly understand unless they had gone through it themselves. He has issues with depression and self esteem and I think it's hard for him to not tell himself that the reason I've been so distant is because I don't love him anymore. I try so hard to let him know how much I love him and that I'm trying to get better so we can be a regular family again, but it's been almost eight months now and we're all tired.
I would take just about anything I needed to if I could get back to "normal" for my family. (Anything LEGAL, that is!)
Angela
And, yes, Twist, I know what it's like to have "family" (mostly my husband) not understand what I'm going through. It's not because he doesn't try, but it's like mental illness, how could someone possibly understand unless they had gone through it themselves. He has issues with depression and self esteem and I think it's hard for him to not tell himself that the reason I've been so distant is because I don't love him anymore. I try so hard to let him know how much I love him and that I'm trying to get better so we can be a regular family again, but it's been almost eight months now and we're all tired.
I would take just about anything I needed to if I could get back to "normal" for my family. (Anything LEGAL, that is!)
Angela
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