New Meds

It's been awhile again. I wish I could report that my absence between posts meant things are improving, but that's not exactly the case.

As you may remember, I have been taking Xanax to help me during "panic" situations. According to my doctor, Xanax is supposed to a "band-aid" medicine, to get you over a temporary hump until you feel better.

Well, my temporary hump has turned into a long, straight road. I was taking the full dose of Xanax three times a day (the maximum my doctor prescribed) to help me tolerate every day's challenges. If I didn't take my dose, my panic symptoms would return. I started a three-times-a-day regimen to help get things under control. It worked, but it's been going on too long.

So, my doctor has placed me on an anti-depressant called Celexa, which has a fairly good success rate for helping people with panic disorders. I have been taking it for a week and dealing with the annoying side effects, such as stomach pains, insomnia, hot flashes and increased anxiety (isn't that the kicker?).

The side effects should wear off in another week, and then I should start seeing results (and taking less Xanax) within another two weeks. I am remaining optimistic about Celexa because of its high success rate.

On the therapy front, I am enjoying a wonderful 30-minute meditation/visualization CD created by a local therapist. It really puts me at ease, especially when I feel those panic symptoms coming on. And I am really focusing on "slowing down," which is helping a lot!

I will keep you posted on the Celexa treatment. Thanks for stopping by!

Feeling better

I have been negligent on my posting to this blog. When I started it, I thought it would be something I would post to every day or two, but life has kept me busy.

Overall, I am feeling better. I am now taking my medication on a six-hour interval throughout the day. I started this regiment about 10 days ago, and I only had one (small) panic episode. I managed this episode successfully with breathing exercises and mindful thinking.

I am not sure how much longer I will continue this medicinal regiment, but I will give it several weeks and see how I feel.

Additionally, I've tried to slow down and not rush myself. I don't streak through yellow lights; I try to get ready for work at a slower pace; I make lists to help me remember.

And I can't forget Time. It's been several weeks now, and I am guessing that time will heal these wounds too.

Thanks to everyone who stops by and leaves a message of support. It's nice to know people are out there.