Xanax

[wilbanks951]

Hi, so my name is Chance, I'm a 16 year old guy and I'm new to the forum. I'd like to ask a few questions about Xanax. My doctor put me on .5mg 2-3 times per day or when I have or get anxiety. My doctor knows that I have anxiety and I told her that it is mostly school related and socially related. I want to know if Xanax is really that addictive. I've taken it a few times and it just makes me feel great but I feel like ill have to take it more often when I go back to school (doctor took me out for 2 weeks due to anxiety.) Also my dad took my pills because he thinks that I'm going to get addicted to them. I want to keep them myself. I'm 16 and I believe that I am responsible enough to keep myself under control. How can I get my pills back and show my family that I am responsible enough? Sorry for all of the questions but I hope some people can help. And sorry if this is posted in the wrong place or whatever I'm just new so be nice. Thanks though.

[Siegfried]

Hello Chance!!!


First of all thank you for sharing this with us.

I would like you to tell us a bit more about your anxiety: symptoms, date of onset, etc. also, whether your doc is a psychiatrist or a GP. If you feel like it, tell us what makes you so anxious about school.

With respect to Xanax, it does cause dependence in the sense that after taking it for a while you cannot just stop, but need to slowly taper off. It is not a matter of responsibility, but of biochemistry. But I agree with you: you are old enough to make certain decisions and evaluations. Also, millions of people take Xanax every day and they are healthy and productive: it's not crack cocaine...

As to your parents, I believe that the most important thing is to show them that this is something serious, not a teenage tantrum. I certainly understand their concerns, and know how parents can be patronizing when it comes to the psychological suffering of their children, no matter how old. My advice is for you to sit down with them and explain to them all about Xanax, and your anxiety (do some research). You'll find many posts here in this forum of what happens when anxiety gets out of control: show them. They seem to want to get involved... I know that this may not be very comfortable for you, but you're still a minor, and for your sake you'll have to rise above it and concede some things. Why not take them to your doctor for a conversation?

0.5 mg two to three times a day is not a lot, but it is also not a little, especially for someone as young as you. Xanax is not the type of drug that I'd like you to take for more than a month or so - there are better long-term drugs for generalized anxiety, without most of the side effects of xanax. So I'll be waiting for your answers to get a clearer picture and give you the best advice I can.

Regards

[wilbanks951]

Thank you very much for the reply. As to the regard about anxiety I get it at school when I either have to do presentations or in class. I usually feel like people are watching or looking at me all the time. It's hard for me to take the time to calm down and it sometimes can be a struggle when my anxiety gets difficult to control. Sometimes I get so anxious and nervous between classes that I shake. I get a lot of anxiety and its hard for me to calm down. Some things have been happening at home that have made the anxiety more common but I think that I have always had it but now it's just getting more difficult to control. As for the Xanax I think it's starting to work well for me. I don't want to say that I really like it but I do. It makes me feel relaxed and calm. I'm usually a very quiet person and I'm stand-offish in social situations but yesterday I took 2 Xanax in the morning and by the time I got to work around 5 (not sure if the Xanax wore off) but I was in a great mood and I was able to talk to my co-workers and be social and it made me feel proud of myself. Also, with the doctor I did bring my dad. He didn't want me on Xanax but the doctor believed that it was best for me. My dad has problems with taking too many medications when prescribed so I think that he wants control so I don't get into the situation he has been in. As for talking about my anxiety I struggle A LOT with explaining how I feel. It's hard for me to describe my panic attacks and problems because I somewhat feel embarrassed. Please get back to me. Thanks for being someone I can talk to!

Chance

[Siegfried]

Hullo again!!!

Glad to hear from you.

You describe a very common side-effect of Xanax: it releases (all) your inhibitions. So yes! That episode was likely the effect of Xanax. I know it's great because I've been there too. ;-)

I understand that you may feel embarrassed about your condition. But you can talk freely here: I, and most people in this forum, either know exactly what you feel from first-hand experience, or at least have suffered enough from anxiety to be sympathetic. Remember: many people suffer from exactly the same thing you do. People from all quadrants of society, most of whom manage to cope with it and lead happy and fulfilling lives. I'm sure you can, and will, do it, too.

Now, do you have many panic attacks? And do you think you put off doing things fearing that an attack might strike? You see, I'm trying to figure out whether a short term course of Xanax given by a GP is sufficient, or whether it would be better to see an expert (psychiatrist) and try a different approach. When I started having problems with panic and anxiety my GP gave me Xanax as well, but it took me a while to figure out that I needed to see an expert. By the time I did I had already developed agoraphobia... Thankfully everything is ok now.

You seem to understand your father's concern, and it does sound reasonable. We don't want those we love and care about to go through many things we've been through. I reiterate my advice: talk! Make him articulate his fears, explain to him all about the drug, and, if possible, bond! There's no better therapy than a caring father!

Looking forward to hearing from you again.

[alankay]

Chance, xanax like any benzo can result in dependence. But you'd need to take it for a while(months at least). Because it is so potent and relatively short acting, it is a bit more likely to cause dependence(but not for all patients). Some docs use a longer acter like clorazepate(tranxene) or klonopin with their longer half lives or serax as it takes a little longer to start working. I understand your Dad's concern but it is illegal to take possession of your schedule 4 controlled substance but know he's trying to protect you. If you were my Son I ask your doc to add counseling, maybe an ssri and a longer acting benzo with instructions to only use as little as possible. Counseling will help educate you on anxiety and possibly find a source of your anxiety. I hope he gives you back the meds and you come to understand his concern and you work with the docs/counselors on this. Benzos are not the solution but they are a part of it for many. Others can drop them after a while while others never quite need them. I wish I had a better answer for you. PM me any time. Alankay.

[wilbanks951]

Thank you both very much for the answers. My dad told me today that I should be in charge of the medication and so he gave it back to me. I think I'll be able to control myself but I'm seeing that I don't think it will be possible. Today at work I had a panic attack out of the blue. I couldn't breathe my heart was pounding and my body felt weak. I literally thought I was going to die and at that point I was wishing I would just die so it would be over. There wasn't much I could do since I didn't bring my meds. When I got home tonight I took my vitamins including B12, D, and Fish Oil which my doctor thought would help since she thinks I might have ADD. Also after taking my vitamins I took Paxil which was prescribed to me and I took 3 .5mg of Xanax. I feel like without it I can't relax and I feel like I need to take it everyday. It's scary because I was given a 55 pill prescription (even though the bottle said 90) and there's only about 45 left and its only been 2 days. I'm honestly at the point in my life where I don't care if I become dependent or addicted to Xanax and I know that sounds horrible but it makes me feel normal. I just feel like such a bad person sometimes. If anyone could relate to this or help me through these feelings it'd greatly be appreciated. Thank you so much for the replies. I hope to talk soon.

[wilbanks951]

Well to start off, my dad gave me my pills back. He thinks that I should be responsible with the pills and he trusts me to be. At times I feel like I take either too many or I take them too often. Yesterday at work I had a panic attack. I was panicking and thought I was dying. My heart was racing and so was my mind. My body felt so weak I just wanted to die. I should have stated that I am also on Paxil which I believe is an anti-depressant. (Correct me if I'm wrong please.) but as for the Xanax I take it a lot. Last night after I got home I took 3 .5mg doses because I was still a nervous wreck and I just didn't want to feel anything. It sounds horrible to say that I take Xanax almost everyday but I just want it. I feel like if I don't take it then ill have a panic attack or anxiety which I get very often. When I took the 3 .5mg pills I soon felt so drunk and was seeing double but it made me feel nothing. Also I was having a bad day because the back of my iPhone shattered lol. I'm really sorry for jumping around on topics I try to answer all of the asked questions but its hard to when I'm on my iPhone and iPad. Also I forget things easily, I think because of the Paxil but I'm not sure. Thank you so much for understanding. Please get back to me!

[Chiliphil1]

Ok, first off there is nothing wrong with taking the xanax if you need it, so don't feel guilty about that. Second, next time you want to take it, just take 1, see how it does give it a chance to work for you before you take a bunch of them. Personally I have felt the fear of becoming addicted to benzos as there have been days where I would take 2 or times when I would take 1 for multiple days in a row, but all told I am still on the same 90ct bottle of ativan that I got last year!

As far as long term goes, once your ad meds start to kick in you will find that you don't need the xanax at all, and if you do it will be rare this just takes some time, one other thing to mention is that some ad meds with cause a spike in anxiety when you start them, so that could also make you want the xanax more, the simple statement here is that if you need it take it, but take as little as possible and if you don't need it then leave it alone do that and you will be fine.

Also, next time you get your meds count them before you leave the pharmacy, there seems to be a problem with pharmacy personel either miscounting or more likely stealing the controlled substances. My father in law is on pain meds, tramadol, purcocet, oxycodone, etc and he had never gotten a complete script, there are always at least a few missing.

[Siegfried]

Chance,


I agree with the previous post in that you should start with one pill and take it from there. If you're afraid it will take long to work, just stick the pill under your tongue instead of swallowing it. The taste is bitter but should work a little faster.

You mention you're on Paxil, and this is a very important piece f info. Who prescribed it? When did you start taking it? How much (in mg, please) are you taking?

We are here for you!

[Fashoom]

Hi,

Yeah please let us know how long you've been taking Paxil. Paxil is in the class of medicines called SSRI's. They are called antidepressants but they are also used to treat anxiety and very effective. It takes some time for Paxil to take effect as your doctor probably told you. It can take a month more or less, but it is different for everyone. Once you have "ramped up" on Paxil you should find that your panic attacks are under control. That is, they are happening very infrequently, and you can save the Xanax for those rare occasions that you need it.

[alankay]

Yes, take it easy on the xanax and stay with the Paxil exactly as it prescribed. It will help you use less xanax in time as it starts to work.
Also, you really should talk with a counselor to try and identify the source of your anxiety and get educated on anxiety. That in itself often helps(taking the mystery out it all). Alankay

[wilbanks951]

So I've realized this app isn't very good at posting my replies from iOS. Will update on computer tonight. Sorry

[Unccmike49]

Hi Chance. I've been taking Klonopin since last May, and any benzodiazepine can cause addiction; but if taken as prescribed, even less, can cause dependence (heck, alot of medications if you take them for awhile can cause dependence). My prescription was written for up to 4 a day, but I mostly took it as needed and usually would just take 1 or 2 a day, and every time it came up for refill I usually still had some left. It helped me amazingly, basically turned down the volume so-to-speak, so I could chill and concentrate without the anxiety bugging me. I think it's safe to say I am dependent on this medication for the sheer fact that I've been taking it so long. And I've taken antidepressants before, and when I came off them occasionally I experienced some withdrawal symptoms.

Hope this helps!

[wilbanks951]

I've been taking paxil for about two weeks. 10mg tablets 2 per day. Lately I've been having suicidal thoughts. Could this be a reaction to the Paxil or Xanax? Have any of you ever felt this way? And also I've been feeling like I'm dying. I don't know why but its this horrible feeling, I can't breathe and I feel like my body is going to just collapse :/ thanks for everyone's help so far.

[Siegfried]

Hello chance! Glad to hear from you!

Why are you taking it two times a day? Is that how your doctor told you to take it? Usually you take it once, with breakfast. Paxil takes a while to have any therapeutic effect. 3-4 week minimum until you start NOTICING improvements. To work completely you have to wait even longer. That's the bummer with drugs like Paxil: takes a long time to work and, meanwhile, may produce a number of bad side effects.

You seem to be experiencing that. Suicidal thoughts are a well described side effect of Paxil, especially at your age. I suggest you see your doctor as soon as possible for evaluation. Don't worry much about it though, and DO NOT stop taking Paxil unless directly told by your doc. Deal?

That feeling of breathlessness and impending doom may be a direct reaction to both drugs, or a deterioration of your anxiety, also possibly caused by the medication. It's a frequent problem early in the treatment, and it usually (nearly always) resolves with its continuation. Still, after two weeks of Paxil people usually go for a follow-up appointment, and I strongly encourage you to do that.

Keep posting! We're here for you, and soon you'll be feeling much better.

[wilbanks951]

Okay thanks. My doctor told me to take the Paxil in the morning or at night but to take 2 10mg pills. Lately I've been having to take a lot of Xanax, half because of anxiety and half because of problems at home. Last night I took 3 .5mg pills and I took a nap and it just knocked me out. I slept from 7-5 in the morning and then 5-9. I just don't know what to do. When I get suicidal thoughts I just think that I can take the Xanax because it makes them go away. It sounds bad that I'm saying this but I just don't know what to do. I've been thinking of getting a kitten, I saw an ad at my local ATM. I called yesterday and the woman said shed make her decision today. I don't really care if its okay with my dad and grandparents (whom I live with). I think I need something that is mine to take my mind off of everything. Would it be a good decision? I know the kitten would be well cared for by me, we have a stable home, and I have a job so money, food, etc wouldn't be a problem. Idk. Please help me out. Thank you so much? Also my doctor scheduled a follow up for a month. Should I call her and let her know about the suicidal thoughts? Thanks.

[Siegfried]

As long as it doesn't affect your sleeping pattern, you should be fine taking it at night...... But it's not that common, and I am not at all convinced that it makes much pharmacological sense. But as long as it doesn't affect your sleep, nothing hinges on this.

I think you should make that call and tell your doc how you feel. "Suicidal thoughts" covers so much! If they seem to be just fleeting sensations of "damn! If I could just die, this anxiety would stop!!!!", then you'll probably be over them soon. If on the other hand you feel compelled to act upon them, an urge to actually do something that would result in your death, then you need to see your doc ASAP. Either way, call her... That's what she's there for! ;-)

You have been hinting that things aren't going great at home. Is it wise to risk a deterioration of your home environment by bringing in a pet without your family's consent? Having a pet is a wonderful thing, and it helps a lot with anxiety. But it's a serious decision: you can't just get rid of it when you're feeling better. Don't you think that it may be a good idea to wait at least a couple of weeks more, see how you do with Paxil, and then, when you start finding your balance, give this idea some more thought?

I worry about the compulsive taking of Xanax that you describe. Why three??? Was it because after the first something bad happened and you needed another one? Or did you take all three together? If the former, then maybe Xanax is not the right drug for you at this juncture: there are other drugs from the same family that are longer acting - discuss this with your doc! If the latter, then try to follow the advice other people and I have been giving you: take one, let it act, forebear a bit. You can do it!

I hope I am helping you. I can relate a lot to what you're going through, and I wish to make clear to you that if I am great now, so will you.

Keep us posted!!!

[wilbanks951]

Well I had anxiety at work yesterday. I took one as suggested, later on about an hour or two took another. I think I lost my third pill at work or something which is scary. Last night I was just wishing it would all end. It sounds horrible but I took 16 .5 mg (8mg) and half a glass of gin and vodka (grandparents drink to "relax" (aren't alcoholics though they're just calm when they drink. But yeah so I took all the medication and alcohol I described and I slept from 11-7pm I honestly was hoping I would die. I mean that was the goal of the alcohol and 8mg of Xanax. I think I'll cancel the kitten request for now because others want it too. Please help me out. I don't care if I die and I keep seeing double letters on my iPhone. I have to type with one eye closed. I'm so depressed right now.

[Chiliphil1]

Just call your doctor, don't delay it seems that the paxil may not be the be lst choice for you. Call them ASAP you may need an adjustment. If you ever feel compelled to end it again, go to the hospital, don't feel that way when there is help out there for you.

[wilbanks951]

I don't know what to do. Too many decisions. Ill try to call my doctor tomorrow if I wake up... Thanks for everything you guys have all been amazing to me but I just don't see the point in continuing to live a life of hell. Have a good night. Thanks again.

[Siegfried]

Chance,


It is not a life of hell: it's a rough patch. You can get over this!!! Most of us have. You have a wonderful life ahead of you.

I want you to see your doctor today. If she's not available, go to an emergency room. You need to be evaluated TODAY. What you're feeling is a side effect of your medication, and t requires immediate medical action. Don't give up!


We're here for you!

[wilbanks951]

I have a car and I t will explain to her what has been happening. Do you think she will call the police for underage drinking? Also

[wilbanks951]

Also since I took the pills last night I've been having to go to the bathroom and I smash into walls and fall when I get to my bed I am so dizzy and it's embarrassing but I wet my bed 3 time and I'm 16!!!! Is there any way I can get off this addiction I mean I took 30mg l last night and I feel lik need

[wilbanks951]

I just want to find a painless way out of this hell. Any suggestions. But I'm scared the doctor won't give me my Xanax. She gave me a "90" supply which wasn't 90 and that was wednesday. Now its gone except for three pills because of last night. . I want to kill myself. My depression is so bad and my anxiety is 1000% all the time. I feel like I'm dying. I just want to already. I have nothing to live for. I know this isn't the point but what are ways of doing so harmlessly.

[laurandisorder]

Honey - There is no way out of your hell 'harmlessly'.

You can't attempt to or actually kill yourself without causing yourself gross physical pain - or worse... You think anxiety and depression are hell? Try spending the rest of your life with brain damage or organ failure due to an unsuccessful suicide. Suicide may seem like the only option in a cruel world, but it isn't.

Think of your parents, your extended family, your community - all of the people you would hurt if you killed yourself. Now think of the people you will hurt if you stay alive and work through this - I'm guessing that total is one - you. Suicide is selfish and causes more than physical pain.

I don't think that this is the real you. You are having a serious adverse reaction to the Xanax. Read the list of side effects and suicidal tendancies and ideations are right there. The Xanax is causing you to feel like this!

You need to be honest with your family and see your Doctor. You need to try some different medication - perhaps an antidepressant to help you. Maybe your Doctor won't prescribe medication at all - it seems you are very sensitive to them - they might refer you to a specialist or a psychiatrist who WILL be able to help you.

Go and talk to your family RIGHT NOW. Tell them the TRUTH and get your butt to a Doctor or even to hospital today. You need to get off the Xanax right now and possibly be monitored until it is out of your system.

Sadly, life isn't supposed to be easy. The hardest thing in this world is to LIVE in it. But it is also the most worthwhile.

Please go talk to your folks. NOW.

[wilbanks951]

I'll talk to my family today buy it's just hard I find it embarrassing to talk about ill try to get an appointment with my doctor. Thanks. :)

[Chiliphil1]

First off, don't be embarrassed. You are having an adverse reaction to medication, it's pretty common. Secondly, you are only taking xanax like you are for 2 reasons, 1.you are trying to get away from the reaction to the ad, common. 2.you feat addiction to the xanax, so your mind is craving it, this is also coming albeit strange.

Trust me, there is more out there for you then you could even realize, right now you're going through a rough patch, we all have bit it will pass. One day you will look back at this and wonder how you thought there was nothing to live for, believe me on that.

Also, be honest with your parents, and whatever doctor or er you see, if they don't know what you're going through and what the meds are doing to you then they can't help, but tell them flat out that you need a different ad, this one is not working. If they don't give you more xanax, don't worry you will be ok without it, you're not addicted you only think you are that will stop once the proper ad starts working for you. If they do give you more, then I revert back to your first post, I think perhaps your parents should monitor the meds and make sure you take no more than the prescribed dose.

Whatever happens you will get better, but seek help and do it NOW.

[wilbanks951]

I'm planning on taking 12.5 mg and a glass of vodka this afternoon. I have no friends no family that will listen and nobody would take to me the ER. I'm just tired, exhausted, depressed, etc. I love all of you for your help. You've all been amazing to me and I love each and every one of you.

[Siegfried]

Chance,


You won't kill yourself with that... You'll only get a terrible hangover. You don't need anyone to take you to the ER. You can call an ambulance. You can call your doctor.

You're in a dark, vicious circle right now. We're here to help you, but we can't unless you help yourself. And helping yourself at this moment means going to the doc no matter what.

Keep us posted!

[wilbanks951]

What will the er or doctor do for me.? They're in the same building though.

[Chiliphil1]

They will do whatever is needed to help you.

Look, stop thinking so much into it and hesitating. Pick up the phone dial 911 and get in front of a doctor, what good is giving up going to do for you?

[Siegfried]

They will evaluate you, adjust your medication, and reassure you!!!

[Chiliphil1]

I have a friend with major anxiety problems, and he has been in the hospital with it multiple times, there is no shame.

His only regret? Not going for help sooner.

[wilbanks951]

The problem isn't the anxiety it's the Xanax.in the last 24 ours I've taken about 20mg what will they do I'm exhausted tired cant get out of bed I'm addicted I think. I want to kill myself. I've made 3 slits on my wrist I just am willing to kill myself. No need for me anymore.

[wilbanks951]

So of I go to the er what do I tell them. I haven't eaten in 2 days what will they do to me???! Please reputation soon

[laurandisorder]

Please just go to the ER and tell them EVERYTHING. I have had to go in for panic and anxiety attacks in the past and it is the Doctors job to help you.

Tell them about the Xanax and that you aren't eating properly. They WILL help you. Good luck x

[inzombiac]

So of I go to the er what do I tell them. I haven't eaten in 2 days what will they do to me???! Please reputation soon

This post literally made me cry. Everything you're feeling you're not alone chance. And it will and does get better. Believe me I've pondered suicide as an easy way to end it all as well but in the end I realize just how many people that would hurt and all I'm giving up. You can't give up. If you ever need someone to talk to please go to my profile and message me. I get notices real quick because I'm on an iPad. I'm here for you.

[Siegfried]

Chance!!!


Tell us how you're doing!!!

[Siegfried]

Am I the only one worried about good ol' Chance? =(

[laurandisorder]

No. I'm really worried too - even though I know what happens to this poor kid is waaaaaay out of my control.

I so hope that he is ok and in good hands.

[inzombiac]

Am I the only one worried about good ol' Chance? =(

I sure hope he is okay. It breaks my heart because I know exactly how he feels and he's still so dang young.....

[Chiliphil1]

I'm worried too, I've been checking for updates everyday.

Kev, I hope you're right.

[wilbanks951]

Hey everyone. I'm so sorry for the late late late reply. I called 911 and was admitted to the ER that night. I stayed for the night and the next afternoon I was transferred to an inpatient place. It was like rehab kind of. They had to taper me off of the Xanax and gave me Klonopin. I stayed there for a week. I just got out today. We worked on my self esteem, self worth, coping skills, etc. it really helped and I'm so glad I went. While there I had a REAL panic attack. Couldn't feel hands or feet but I got through it with help from the staff and nurses. I'm so sorry for worrying everyone here that cared about me. Thank you so much for everything I am so thankful for having even this. It amazes me the strength of a small group of strangers on a forum that I've barely used. I love you all. I'll try to stay strong. As for meds I'm still on Paxil and Seraquill to sleep which isn't working much. I don't think my doctor is going to give me another bottle of Xanax. I know I'm not getting Klonopin. All my Xanax is gone. What do I do if the coping skills don't work and I panic again at school or in public? Thanks for everything. Please reply soon. <3

[Siegfried]

Glad to hear from you, Chance!!!


Well, Paxil should start kicking in soon, so hopefully you won't need much coping. BUT, number one: learn how to breathe. Check online for tips on breathing when anxiety strikes. Second, camomile tea. Not feeling great? Have a nice cup of warm camomile tea. The very act of doing it plus the anxiolytic properties of camomile are excellent at preventing anxiety symptoms from multiplying. If taken at the right time, from my experience, it can be as helpful as Xanax.

KEEP US POSTED!

[wilbanks951]

I was taught how to breathe it sometimes works. And thanks for the tip on the tea. I talked to my dad and he isn't letting me get a benzo even if my doctor prescribes it. That makes me really mad. He's taking oxycodon for severe back pain but I can't have a benzo for anxiety. I'm SO scared to start school Monday. I haven't been in 3 weeks. What will people think!? I won't be able to stay calm without medicine. And ever since I got out of the inpatient place I've had this butterfly anxious feeling in my stomach. I know I'm depressed and I kind of think suicidally but I can't go down that road again or ill be locked in that place for another weeks I just want to escape all of these feelings and just be calm. I want Xanax or even better Klonopin which I took at the hospital to wean me off the Xanax I ODed on. Please help me. I'm so messed up.

[laurandisorder]

Firstly, I'm so glad you're ok. I have been checking every day!!

I actually agree with your Dad and the Doctors - it sounds like you are highly, highly susceptible to the bad side effects of Xanax and other benzos. Also, you're quite young and the benzos will mess up your brain's ability in terms of cognition (learning things) for life. You need to stay well away from the benzos. They won't help you with panic attacks anyway - its like trying to fix a huge open wound with a bandaid!

Give your anti depressants a chance to work. They WILL help you with the anxiety after 2-3 weeks of taking them.

Are you seeing any specialist doctors to help you with your medication?

As for school. Throw yourself into it. Channel your anxiety into doing the best you can in terms of your work. If you have a panic attack (the one you had at the treatment center would have been withdraw related), then try to work through it - look at the stickies in the general forum. If you can't, go to the nurse. It's nothing to be ashamed of.

I would highly advise that you talk to a counsellor and tell them what is going on so your teachers know what you ate going through. As an educator, I like to know if my kids have problems with mental health so I can help make things easy for them.

Good luck!!!

[inzombiac]

I was taught how to breathe it sometimes works. And thanks for the tip on the tea. I talked to my dad and he isn't letting me get a benzo even if my doctor prescribes it. That makes me really mad. He's taking oxycodon for severe back pain but I can't have a benzo for anxiety. I'm SO scared to start school Monday. I haven't been in 3 weeks. What will people think!? I won't be able to stay calm without medicine. And ever since I got out of the inpatient place I've had this butterfly anxious feeling in my stomach. I know I'm depressed and I kind of think suicidally but I can't go down that road again or ill be locked in that place for another weeks I just want to escape all of these feelings and just be calm. I want Xanax or even better Klonopin which I took at the hospital to wean me off the Xanax I ODed on. Please help me. I'm so messed up.

Glad you're okay! People are always going to talk smack...just take it like a grain of salt. When I was out of school for 2 months I came back and there was all types of rumors...I especially loved the one that I turned lesbian and ran off to Africa on a peace mission...hehe....just laugh and remember how insignificant their thoughts are to you :) in the mean time give the paxil time. I just started a week ago. So far so good and now I don't even use my Ativan :)

[Siegfried]

Well, chance, it's likely that your colleagues and teachers will ask you about what happened, so it's better for you to prepare in advance what you want to tell them. As to gossiping, etc. it wears off pretty fast. Plus, the really important people don't care about that. And you can always come here and vent... We will be here. =)

[wilbanks951]

Thank you all very much. I am going to see a psychiatrist some time soon and I'll let the paxil work. As I said earlier I start back school Monday. Ill try to throw myself into it. I want to be more outgoing but have trouble doing so. Any tips? Thanks

[Siegfried]

Well I'm too outgoing so I have the opposite problem..... I'm loud, eccentric, and sort of brash. So I can't give you any tips because social anxiety has never been my thing...

Maybe the one: remember that, at the end of the day, your bed will be there, the forum will be here, and you can always cuddle up to warm hot chocolate whilst reading a nice Victorian novel. Do you like Charlotte Brontë? Have you ever read Jane Eyre or Villette?

[wilbanks951]

That's true I guess lol and no I haven't :) I'm a 16 yo guy. But thanks for a few tips!

[Siegfried]

Lo! The lad hath called me old!!! ;-(


Lol

[wilbanks951]

Thanks for everything everyone. I am going to try my best to work through the stress and try to be more outgoing. Thanks for all of the support and help through my situation. It means a lot to me and you should all know how thankful I am for each and every one of you. - Chance

[laurandisorder]

Thank you all very much. I am going to see a psychiatrist some time soon and I'll let the paxil work. As I said earlier I start back school Monday. Ill try to throw myself into it. I want to be more outgoing but have trouble doing so. Any tips? Thanks

My best tip; Fake it until you make it!!

People assume that I'm an extrovert because I'm funny and apparently very outgoing, but it's just a big act! My most favourite thing to do is to curl up under a blanket, safe at home with my cats and a good book - not flitter round like the social butterfly everyone thinks I am!!

If you can make people laugh, then you're on the right track.

[wilbanks951]

My best tip; Fake it until you make it!!

People assume that I'm an extrovert because I'm funny and apparently very outgoing, but it's just a big act! My most favourite thing to do is to curl up under a blanket, safe at home with my cats and a good book - not flitter round like the social butterfly everyone thinks I am!!

If you can make people laugh, then you're on the right track.

Lol okay thanks. I'm pretty good at doing that and talking to people, for me it's just hard to start a conversation or start talking to someone i don't know but I'll introduce myself to people and try from there thanks for everything it helps so much to hear from you all :)

[laurandisorder]

Good luck tomorrow, Chance!!

We'll all be thinking of you. Let us know how it goes!!

[wilbanks951]

Thank you very much! Will do!

[Siegfried]

Good luck mate!!!

[wilbanks951]

Thanks ill need it. I'm very nervous for tomorrow! I'm afraid of what people will say and I'm afraid what they'll think of me. Ahhh :X

[Siegfried]

They'll be glad you're back and ok. And if they aren't... Well... Tough!!! Life is soooo much better once high school is over anyway! So look ahead, and be happy!!!

[wilbanks951]

Thanks ill try to. I just worry about everything so much. The only way I ever got it to stop was when I took xanax and that didn't go to well. Do you think my doctor would trust me again with a benzo or probably not?

[Siegfried]

I think you probably won't need it once Paxil is working. How was the dreaded day?

[wilbanks951]

Today is going okay. It's weird to be in classes and everything but it alright. I've noticed that I've been really shaky all day. Like I feel like I've been getting startled easily. It's weird and kind of annoying but I've been keeping to myself like I did before. I don't know if that's good or not. Idk.

[inzombiac]

Today is going okay. It's weird to be in classes and everything but it alright. I've noticed that I've been really shaky all day. Like I feel like I've been getting startled easily. It's weird and kind of annoying but I've been keeping to myself like I did before. I don't know if that's good or not. Idk.

Chase I will be 2 weeks on paxil tomorrow and my shakes finally all together quit yesterday. Just some words of hope :)

[wilbanks951]

Thanks. I've been on Paxil for almost a month and I don't notice a difference :/ I'm wondering if I should ask my doctor for something else?

[inzombiac]

Thanks. I've been on Paxil for almost a month and I don't notice a difference :/ I'm wondering if I should ask my doctor for something else?

Oh I thought you had just started lol my bad well then yeah I would talk to your dr about it.

[wilbanks951]

Oh I thought you had just started lol my bad well then yeah I would talk to your dr about it.

Lol thanks (:

[Siegfried]

A month is still high time for you to notice differences. But do discuss it with them. You're taking 20mg a day, right?

[wilbanks951]

Yes I'm taking 20mg at night before I go to sleep. I'm not sure which doctor to talk to. The regular doctor gave me the Paxil. I wasn't going to a psychiatrist but I have an appointment with a new psychiatrist the 30th. Should I talk to the psychiatrist or the doctor that gave me them?

[Rebecca Storper]

Xanax is very addictive I'd advise you to be very careful.

[Siegfried]

Both!!! How is school going?

[wilbanks951]

Xanax is very addictive I'd advise you to be very careful.

I'm not on Xanax anymore. But thanks for the advice.

[wilbanks951]

Both!!! How is school going?

I don't have school today. It's a day for seniors to do "job shadowing" so I'm just doing all of my makeup work since its due Friday. My stress hasn't been that bad lately. Work definitely helped, I love everyone I work with and it's an enjoyable part time job. Thanks for asking though!

[Siegfried]

Tell us about what you do! =)


Ate you sure Paxil didn't help in making you feel better?

[wilbanks951]

Well I work at Walgreens and I just like my job so much. My managers and co workers are just great people that can always make you smile. They all sent me a huge card that I got in the mail yesterday and it said they hope I get better and everyone signed it!

And as for the Paxil I'm not really sure. I mean it probably did help a little bit but I don't think it helped that much. Idk.

[Siegfried]

That was very nice of them. I'm sure they wouldn't have done that unless they cared for you. See? People seem to like you, Chance... ;-)

[wilbanks951]

Yeah, and I'm so thankful for those people. Earlier today I read some of my earlier posts and I just want to apologize for what I said and how I sounded. I realize now that I probably seemed psycho to you all and I just want to say sorry and let you all know how I feel. Thank you so much for being here with me 100% of the time. It makes a huge difference.

[Siegfried]

Don't apologize. We've all been there, Chance. I certainly have. That's what we're here for.


When is your next appointment, and how are things with your dad?

[laurandisorder]

Don't you dare apologise!!!

You're young, you're anxious and you had a massive adverse reaction to Xanax.

If you're aren't feeling worse, I guess that the Paxil is working. It should take 2-3 months to reach full potency. It's a very good antidepressant for anxiety - most importantly, unlike Benzos like Xanax, it's going to help you work through the anxiety, rather than just blocking it out.

Sometimes you need to feel those bad emotions and learn to deal with them. At least once a day, I'll feel panic onset, but I know the symptoms and know they can't hurt me and I guess I'm used to it.

Good on you for getting back into work and school. Try to treat your body well; eat well, get sleep and don't go crazy with the caffiene.

[wilbanks951]

I wish at times that I could block out the anxiety and just get things done. For example, since I was out for a few weeks I had to make up a project for my government class. Tuesday my teacher told me that my project was due Friday. So today in class (Thursday) my teacher called my name out and asked if I had my project. I said no because I was planning on bringing my project on the day it was due. And due to my anxiety I have a huge problem talking to my teachers especially during class. At this point I'd rather take a 0 than ask the teacher for another day and then have to present it in front of the whole class. I honestly don't know what to do. Can someone help me out!? 😫