Note sure how to cope

[emnic]

I'm relatively new to all of this. Had a few mild episodes on anxiety in the past, but nothing I couldn't manage. In the past few months I feel like it's gotten out of control. Not even sure what sparked it. Depression seems to be a part of it too. Some days I'm fine. Other days I can't function. I'm not myself at all. Is this the new me? Will I ever be the old me again? My relationships suck b/c of all of this and that makes it even worse. Scared to go on meds b/c I hear about all the possible side effects and don't want to get sucked into trying drug after drug. Is it possible to manage all of this without meds? Been in counseling for awhile but not seeing much benefit yet.

[Bam77]

To be honest it can be done, though meds help out a lot. Some people say herbs work. Ive never tried it though. CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) is also good from what Ive heard. I too was very reluctant to try medication. I had finally had enough of feeling the way I did and got on meds. Its a night and day difference. Its true that you may have to try different ones. Its worth it to at least try. Im actually pissed at myself for not going on them sooner. Side effects might happen and they might not, but most are manageable. Im on celexa and have only noticed start up anxiety and some insomnia ( which is a lot better now). Also this med didn't change who I was. I still get pissed, happy, sad etc. My thoughts are mine etc. It just helped take the anxiety and depression away.