New symptoms? How To Combat Them?
Hi Deanna,
Thank you for sharing your story. Panic attacks are not fun, but remember that it won't hurt you. It seems as if you are going through a difficult time. I am on 10mg of prozac and my anxiety has gone away for the most part. Everyone is different (as my therapist and doctor has explained to me) so please don't compare my situation to yours. Theraputic doses for everyone is different. For me 10mg works just fine. Also, you need to give it at least 3 weeks before you start to see your symptoms slightly improve. Week after week, you should feel more like yourself. The trial period is at least 6 weeks to see any notible improvement in symptoms. Also, don't feel bad about taking the Ativan. It you need it to get through this period until the prozac kicks in, then that is what you need.
I have cried too. Mostly because I wanted to feel "normal" too and mostly because I feel that I had no control. Now, I feel much better. And, I know you will too! Keep doing the program. Re-read the sections and continue to post. We are all here for you. When I first started posting I was suprised how many people we supportive and responsive.
This experience is different for everyone, but as my therapist explained it, once the medication kicks in you will be able to cope better with your panic attacks and work on the exposures. The process of "habituation" takes place and you start to feel better about things and as you feel better, an option is to taper off the medications. The process requires patience and be kind to yourself. It is not easy. But know that you are not alone!!!
Yesterday, for example, I took the subway and had no panic/anxiety symptoms. It was the first time I felt like that in years. Now, I am in the process of booking a plane ticket. It takes time. But, don't give up. We are here for you.
Hope that helps.
