I seem to be a world class panic attack owner and I’m looking for a little re-assurance or possibly some advice.  I have a panic attack roughly once every three years (total of 5 so far), but when I have them, they are INTENSE. I normally am unable/barely able to walk, have great difficulty speaking, and feel numbness on my left side.  I KNOW, that sounds like a stroke, believe me, I’ve seen doctors.  Tons of tests have been taken, and every time I get the same diagnosis.  There is nothing wrong with you, go home.  NONE of them have been willing (able?) to diagnos them as Anxiety.  I normally feel AWFUL for a week or two following the attack, then I slowly start to recover after that point.  I would have continued to seek doctors if I hadn’t noticed one symptom that tends to make me think that this is anxiety-related. After roughly 15 minutes of "stroking out", I get uncontrollable full- body shakes that last for about 10-15 minutes. My question is:  Does anybody else get attacks of this frequency (roughly once every 3 years) and intensity with similar symptoms? Should I continue to seek out Doctors, or accept this as my lot in life? I should also say that I do not medicate.  I hate the thought of taking drugs for the rest of my life.  I’m very healthy for 3 years or so, then I have these "Grand Mal" episodes with no warning. Thanks in advance for any thoughts. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I seem to be a world class panic attack owner and I’m looking for a little re-assurance or possibly some advice.  I have a panic attack roughly once every three years (total of 5 so far), but when I have them, they are INTENSE. I normally am unable/barely able to walk, have great difficulty speaking, and feel numbness on my left side.  I KNOW, that sounds like a stroke, believe me, I’ve seen doctors.  Tons of tests have been taken, and every time I get the same diagnosis.  There is nothing wrong with you, go home.  NONE of them have been willing (able?) to diagnos them as Anxiety.  I normally feel AWFUL for a week or two following the attack, then I slowly start to recover after that point.  I would have continued to seek doctors if I hadn’t noticed one symptom that tends to make me think that this is anxiety-related. After roughly 15 minutes of "stroking out", I get uncontrollable full- body shakes that last for about 10-15 minutes. My question is:  Does anybody else get attacks of this frequency (roughly once every 3 years) and intensity with similar symptoms? Should I continue to seek out Doctors, or accept this as my lot in life? I should also say that I do not medicate.  I hate the thought of taking drugs for the rest of my life.  I’m very healthy for 3 years or so, then I have these "Grand Mal" episodes with no warning. Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

the numbness on only one side is troubling to me-the rest seems rather pedestrian as far as a panic attack of high intensity goes-the week or two post episode is rather troubling as well. Not knowing what tests you have had I cannot comment further with anything other then guesswork or assumption. Having something of this magnitude every three years seems a small price to pay for being alive, provided it is purely panic driven-there are those who have multiple high intesnity panic attacks per day every day. I would recommend a consult with a vascular specialist, a neurologist followed by a psychiatrist.  If it is panic, Alprazolam can be given while the attack is occuring at a moderate sublingual dose that could abort the progress of a panic attack and it can be further used for a few days post episode-this hardly constitutes a medical regimen of drugs being used prophylactically for events that occur every three years or so… You could be having tia’s which are not really diagnosable after the fact except possibly with a pet scan and a great pair of eyes evaluating it-a 24 hour blood pressure and holter monitor shoud be done several times to see what may be happening if anything in your vasculature-numbness relating to panic and hyperventilation is stereotypical meaning it would be both arms-left side is highly suspect of a major vascular disruption — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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My question is:  Does anybody else get attacks of this frequency (roughly once every 3 years) and intensity with similar symptoms?

No, mine were more frequent and only at specific times (driving on the highway) but they were just intense. I felt like I was having a heart attack and like I was literally going to jump out of my skin. Should I continue to seek out Doctors, or accept this as my lot in life?

Yes, by all means continue to seek out doctors until you find one who will listen to you and treat your problem. I should also say that I do not medicate.  I hate the thought of taking drugs for the rest of my life.  I’m very healthy for 3 years or so, then I have these "Grand Mal" episodes with no warning.

I understand your reluctance to medicate, as I felt the same way for years. However, nothing else helped my panic attacks and they were severely affecting every aspect of my life, so I gave in. I now take . 05 mg of Klonopin twice a day and I haven’t had a panic attack in six months. Look at it this way; if you had high blood pressure or diabetes, and the only way you could keep it under control was to take medication for the rest of your life, you’d do it, right? This is pretty much the same thing. Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

You’re welcome, hope this helped. Joe — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Wow, thanks guys.  Super helpful, and much much appreciated. Happy holidays Marie — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Hi. From my experience, I can say that a host of physical symptoms can be

related to an anxiety disorder. You should definitely look into it. Best wishes! -z-

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings all.  I am interested in your layperson’s diagnostic opinions, as I find experience much more helpful than clinical analysis in some areas. For 6 years I’ve had health issues and untold diagnostics.  What I DON’T have is diabetes, a spinal leak, a heart problem, adrenal insuffiency, thryoid disease, b-12 deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, lyme disease, or sleep apnea… the list goes on.  What I DO feel nearly every day is extremely "yucky" when I wake up — dizzy, a bit nauseated, and working on a whopper of a headache.  Sometimes I can avoid the headache but any activity where I move around a lot or have to rush around to get ready = banger of a headache. I’ve been diagnosed with migraines over the years but the triptans only sort of work and the preventives only sort of work.  It ALWAYS comes back. Add to this that I *never* *ever* sleep soundly and always have tortured dreams (you know, where you’re supposed to be getting something done for work but can’t find the right stuff to do it, or your car brakes won’t work, or you run into your ex, or you’re working on that proposal for work you’re not done with).  The only truly good sleep I’ve had in YEARS is medicated — like after a spinal proceudre at the hospital where I got Ativan or after an MRI where they give you Versed via IV.  Ahhhhh. I looked up the symptoms of GAD yesterday because both my father and I have these "tortured dreams" all the time and I was AMAZED at how many of the GAD symptoms sound like my mysterious ailment.  Not only irritability and headaches but also having to pee all the time!!  (Who knew?!)  And I *do* worry about stuff a lot — I have three part time jobs and am incapable of not overcommitting myself and I’m always stressed about finishing this project or that project, but then I feel SO HORRIBLE during the day, headachey, nauseated, and unable to concentrate, that I just get further behind at work.  And sometimes the SMALLEST thing will irritate the crud out of me. So… what do you guys think?  Could this be General Anxiety Disorder?  I’ve been searching so long for a purely physical (non- neurochemical) answer I never thought to connect the symptoms to my "normal personality". Would love your feedback, thanks so much for your time and patience, Marie

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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<gently snipped :: And I *do* worry about stuff a lot — I have three part time ::jobs and am incapable of not overcommitting myself and I’m always ::stressed about finishing this project or that project, but then I feel ::SO HORRIBLE during the day, headachey, nauseated, and unable to ::concentrate, that I just get further behind at work.  And sometimes ::the SMALLEST thing will irritate the crud out of me. Dear Marie, Welcome to ASAPM!! Yes, physical ailments can be anxiety related. It’s quite common for people with an anxiety disorder to think they are actually suffering from some sort of physical disorder. From your description it does sound like you may have an anxiety disorder. Since it seems you have ruled out psych doctor and/or psychologist. They are the ones that can diagnosis you for sure. You don’t have to suffer like this anymore. This are effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Here is some info on GAD including some self-tests. http://panicdisorder.about.com/od/gadbasics/a/quizgad.htm http://panicdisorder.about.com/od/gad/Generalized_Anxiety_Disorder.htm http://gad.about.com/ http://gad.about.com/od/symptoms/a/dsmiv.htm Good luck! Jackie ~*~"Strange, isn’t it? "Each man’s life touches so many other lives, and when he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?"~*~   ~ Clarence ~ George Bailey’s Guardian Angel from the film, "It’s a Wonderful Life" — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Greetings all.  I am interested in your layperson’s diagnostic opinions, as I find experience much more helpful than clinical analysis in some areas. For 6 years I’ve had health issues and untold diagnostics.  What I DON’T have is diabetes, a spinal leak, a heart problem, adrenal insuffiency, thryoid disease, b-12 deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, lyme disease, or sleep apnea… the list goes on.  What I DO feel nearly every day is extremely "yucky" when I wake up — dizzy, a bit nauseated, and working on a whopper of a headache.  Sometimes I can avoid the headache but any activity where I move around a lot or have to rush around to get ready = banger of a headache. I’ve been diagnosed with migraines over the years but the triptans only sort of work and the preventives only sort of work.  It ALWAYS comes back. Add to this that I *never* *ever* sleep soundly and always have tortured dreams (you know, where you’re supposed to be getting something done for work but can’t find the right stuff to do it, or your car brakes won’t work, or you run into your ex, or you’re working on that proposal for work you’re not done with).  The only truly good sleep I’ve had in YEARS is medicated — like after a spinal proceudre at the hospital where I got Ativan or after an MRI where they give you Versed via IV.  Ahhhhh. I looked up the symptoms of GAD yesterday because both my father and I have these "tortured dreams" all the time and I was AMAZED at how many of the GAD symptoms sound like my mysterious ailment.  Not only irritability and headaches but also having to pee all the time!!  (Who knew?!)  And I *do* worry about stuff a lot — I have three part time jobs and am incapable of not overcommitting myself and I’m always stressed about finishing this project or that project, but then I feel SO HORRIBLE during the day, headachey, nauseated, and unable to concentrate, that I just get further behind at work.  And sometimes the SMALLEST thing will irritate the crud out of me. So… what do you guys think?  Could this be General Anxiety Disorder?  I’ve been searching so long for a purely physical (non- neurochemical) answer I never thought to connect the symptoms to my "normal personality". Would love your feedback, thanks so much for your time and patience, Marie — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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I cannot drive on benzos (Clonazepam) because of tough scary new laws here. I drive fine on them, but still probably dangerous for legality. I cannot work without taking benzos, and even then, no guarantee. I have tried most/all SSRIs for anxiety, but they don’t work like benzos. What to do ? I live in exurbs in parents’ basement apartment sort of arrangement (own closed space, lower rent, pay my own way on ther things of course), and it is almost impossible to get anywhere without a car, especially on weekends and evenings. Can commute to work for now if downtown. Father can’t drive anymore, mother ok, but they are up there in age. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I cannot drive on benzos (Clonazepam) because of tough scary new laws here. I drive fine on them, but still probably dangerous for legality. I cannot work without taking benzos, and even then, no guarantee. I have tried most/all SSRIs for anxiety, but they don’t work like benzos. What to do ? I live in exurbs in parents’ basement apartment sort of arrangement (own closed space, lower rent, pay my own way on ther things of course), and it is almost impossible to get anywhere without a car, especially on weekends and evenings. Can commute to work for now if downtown. Father can’t drive anymore, mother ok, but they are up there in age.

Almost everybody I know is driving on benzos.  Seriously, would you rather have someone on the road who is anxious and nervous, or someone who is calm and cool.  It all depends on how the benzos affect you.  For me they make me normal again.  The last time I got stopped the officer and I had a nice conversation and he sent me on my way — forgot to turn my lights on when I left a gas station. Without the benzos I would not have been driving at all, and if I had been driving and stopped by a cop without my benzos I probably would have freaked out. If the benzos put you in a drunken state, obviously you should not be driving or working.  The word here is "normal."  When you take your meds are you more normal?  If yes, I wouldn’t worry about it.  If they make you sluggish and sleepy you should not be driving on them. Do they slow your reflexes?  Probably, but what about coming up on a situation where you have to hit your brakes or swerve to avoid an accident? In a calm state you will probably do the right thing.  In an anxious state you may do nothing. It all depends on how you feel when you drive.  I can’t tell you to break the law, but if your meds bring you back to center, and they are prescribed by a doctor, I doubt you will get into trouble. Anyway, that’s my two cents.  Let’s see what others have to say. Sheldon — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I cannot drive on benzos (Clonazepam) because of tough scary new laws here. I drive fine on them, but still probably dangerous for legality. I cannot work without taking benzos, and even then, no guarantee. I have tried most/all SSRIs for anxiety, but they don’t work like benzos. What to do ? I live in exurbs in parents’ basement apartment sort of arrangement (own closed space, lower rent, pay my own way on ther things of course), and it is almost impossible to get anywhere without a car, especially on weekends and evenings. Can commute to work for now if downtown. Father can’t drive anymore, mother ok, but they are up there in age.

If the drive I am about to take is an anxiety provoking one, I’m better off TAKING the benzo.. That keeps both me and the other drivers safe!! Depends on your level of anxiety, but unless you take a large amount, or if you are super sensitive to them – benzos should not be a problem for anyone who has an anxiety disorder. They will make you feel normal, not impair you. If the dosage you are on is too strong, try a half or a quarter.. Are you new to taking this medication? When I first began taking Xanax, before I learned what dose worked best for me, they would make me sleepy – but that only took a few weeks to sort out and now, I take them so I can just feel like a normal person feels. Anxiety is a worse impairment for me than my meds. Sally — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I cannot drive on benzos (Clonazepam) because of tough scary new laws here. I drive fine on them, but still probably dangerous for legality. I cannot work without taking benzos, and even then, no guarantee. I have tried most/all SSRIs for anxiety, but they don’t work like benzos. What to do ? I live in exurbs in parents’ basement apartment sort of arrangement (own closed space, lower rent, pay my own way on ther things of course), and it is almost impossible to get anywhere without a car, especially on weekends and evenings. Can commute to work for now if downtown. Father can’t drive anymore, mother ok, but they are up there in age. Almost everybody I know is driving on benzos.  Seriously, would you rather have someone on the road who is anxious and nervous, or someone who is calm and cool.  It all depends on how the benzos affect you.  For me they make me normal again.  The last time I got stopped the officer and I had a nice conversation and he sent me on my way — forgot to turn my lights on when I left a gas station. Without the benzos I would not have been driving at all, and if I had been driving and stopped by a cop without my benzos I probably would have freaked out. If the benzos put you in a drunken state, obviously you should not be driving or working.  The word here is "normal."  When you take your meds are you more normal?  If yes, I wouldn’t worry about it.  If they make you sluggish and sleepy you should not be driving on them. Do they slow your reflexes?  Probably, but what about coming up on a situation where you have to hit your brakes or swerve to avoid an accident? In a calm state you will probably do the right thing.  In an anxious state you may do nothing. It all depends on how you feel when you drive.  I can’t tell you to break the law, but if your meds bring you back to center, and they are prescribed by a doctor, I doubt you will get into trouble. Anyway, that’s my two cents.  Let’s see what others have to say. Sheldon

I would have to agree with you.  I wish my mother-in-law was on benzo’s when she drives.  Sheesh.  I don’t know who stresses out more, me or her! kili — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I cannot drive on benzos (Clonazepam) because of tough scary new laws here. I drive fine on them, but still probably dangerous for legality. I cannot work without taking benzos, and even then, no guarantee. I have tried most/all SSRIs for anxiety, but they don’t work like benzos. What to do ? I live in exurbs in parents’ basement apartment sort of arrangement (own closed space, lower rent, pay my own way on ther things of course), and it is almost impossible to get anywhere without a car, especially on weekends and evenings. Can commute to work for now if downtown. Father can’t drive anymore, mother ok, but they are up there in age. Almost everybody I know is driving on benzos.  Seriously, would you rather have someone on the road who is anxious and nervous, or someone who is calm and cool.  It all depends on how the benzos affect you.  For me they make me normal again.  The last time I got stopped the officer and I had a nice conversation and he sent me on my way — forgot to turn my lights on when I left a gas station. Without the benzos I would not have been driving at all, and if I had been driving and stopped by a cop without my benzos I probably would have freaked out. If the benzos put you in a drunken state, obviously you should not be driving or working.  The word here is "normal."  When you take your meds are you more normal?  If yes, I wouldn’t worry about it.  If they make you sluggish and sleepy you should not be driving on them. Do they slow your reflexes?  Probably, but what about coming up on a situation where you have to hit your brakes or swerve to avoid an accident? In a calm state you will probably do the right thing.  In an anxious state you may do nothing. It all depends on how you feel when you drive.  I can’t tell you to break the law, but if your meds bring you back to center, and they are prescribed by a doctor, I doubt you will get into trouble. Anyway, that’s my two cents.  Let’s see what others have to say. Sheldon I would have to agree with you.  I wish my mother-in-law was on benzo’s when she drives.  Sheesh.  I don’t know who stresses out more, me or her! kili — The charter is available at:http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm – Show quoted text –

Since my panic attacks started while driving on the freeway, and since my doctor prescribed them for me to take specifically while driving, I don’t worry about it being legal. In my opinion (and obviously my doctor’s), I’d be more dangeorus without them then with them. Besides, I’m on such a low dose (0.5 mg) that I don’t worry about it impairing my driving in any way. Joe — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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10/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur   If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like? Jackie ~*~You all laugh at me because I’m different, I laugh at you because you’re all the same~*~    ~John Davis~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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10/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like?

The other players would all be hidden behind anonymous identities, and they would constantly change the rules, and I’d be the only one who wasn’t informed of the changes. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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10/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like? Jackie ~*~You all laugh at me because I’m different, I laugh at you because you’re all the same~*~    ~John Davis~

Dunno, but it would include a lot of running for safety from mostly imagined threats. I don’t think people would enjoy playing my game very much. I’m sick of it myself. Sally — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like? Jackie ~*~You all laugh at me because I’m different, I laugh at you because    you’re all the same~*~ ~John Davis~ Dunno, but it would include a lot of running for safety from mostly imagined threats. I don’t think people would enjoy playing my game very much. I’m sick of it myself. Sally

I can definitely relate to that, Sally. kili — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Running, hiding, maybe I’d blow up at times when the anxiety was too high, dodging ramps to interstates… smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like? Jackie ~*~You all laugh at me because I’m different, I laugh at you because you’re all the same~*~   ~John Davis~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

If you created a video game that accurately portrayed your anxiety disorder experiences, what would that game be like?

        Sort of like Doom.  Demons and bad guys may or may not lurk around each corner, some that look real aren’t, never sure of which ones are and aren’t…  Never sure of ammo level….  Yuck.  Not a fun game.   Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay.  I will start off with an odd introduction here.  I’ve been diagnosed with recurrent depression, GAD and PD since 2003.  I started a regimen of 25mg paxil and 1mg clonazepam.  Over a course of four years I’ve had it upped to 3mgs (well within the accepted dosage range for controlling panic and anxiety which to my knowledge is 1-4mgs) and discontinued paxil without any withdrawal that wasn’t bearable (only lasted a week, it was more annoying than anything). Now, come late March of this year and my pdoc asks me to start weaning of clonazepam.  I was warned a while ago from someone on an anti- benzo board about extremely dangerous withdrawal symptoms (they told me I wouldn’t even be able to started weaning without going insane… yeah right).  So that added a bit of paranoia and anxiety to someone predisposed to both on top of weaning off anti-anxiety medication. After months of being on anti-benzo boards which perpetuated a self- destructive state of mind, more hope fell apart as I was told things such as: "well, if you haven’t experienced extreme withdrawal yet, wait till you hit 0.Xmgs"; "you absolutely cannot wean directly off clonazepam dry cutting pills, you’re insane" etc, etc.  This at first didn’t put me off, but instead added to an INTENSE state of depression and panic.  I’m predisposed to both as I’ve said, and have had long stints of unemployment and suicidal ideation unmedicated.  Now, I think my self-preservation instincts are kicking in but it’s a tad bit late… but not too late.  I’m just broke, not in college and jobless.  I can remedy that situation once I resolve this issue that I might go bananas when I eventually quit clonazepam. The first step to get better for me is to stay far away from those anti-benzo places since all they throw around is paranoia and self- destruction (in one group, a moderator actually told me to use an online pharmacy to purchase more drugs to slow my taper even more (this taper is already a year long!  yeesh)).  The next step is to say, yes, I’m at a pretty low dosage and haven’t experienced ANY moderate withdrawal symptoms looking back on it all.  At first if I had a headache I’d think w/d.  Not attribute it to that we all get headaches all the time!  Or if I was anxious I’d think "here comes a seizure i think!"  Now, who needs to live in that shell-shocked existence?  I’ve been living like that for the past 6 months, and from now on I’m going to just take it as it comes, since nothing bad has happened yet which pretty much means nothing bad will happen as long as I follow this weaning schedule properly. Now, my perspective on why there’s so much panic about benzos is that there were a few who abruptly discontinued or detoxed rapidly from benzodiazepines and then spread their plights across the internet and through the medical community.  This creates a very negative atmosphere for anyone trying to wean off a benzodiazpeine, since ONLY the negative (and rare) side gets advertised.  The ones that never suffered any ill-effects never join an anti-benzo board, and their numbers are far more vast since I actually have 3 people in my family that had no problem whatsoever with benzo discontinuation even after years of use.  I’m down to 1/2 mg from 3 mgs.  I’m told on all of the anti-benzo boards I’m doing this wayy too quickly and I might drop dead if I continue.  Well… so far so good, so why the scare?  I think so that their methods aren’t tarnished by someone who can withdrawal differently. Sorry for the long introduction.

The mind is a very powerful thing.  You can psych yourself into panic attacks and withdrawal symptoms, or you can psych yourself into having no withdrawal at all.  Look at how many people are cured by the placebo in drug testing.  While getting off these meds may be difficult, some people have problems and some don’t.  It is what it is, and everybody is different. Don’t assume you’re going to be the one who has problems, and don’t immerse yourself in the Internet looking up withdrawal symptoms or you will go nuts. If 3 people in your family did it why not assume you have the same genes and you’ll do it, too.  "If" things get bad talk to your doc and slow it down. He/she should comply, especially with someone prone to anxiety. Hang in there and good luck. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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I did a slow wean off Klonopin over the course of several months and suffered no withdrawal symptoms. However, I did have the return of panic attacks while driving on the freeway. Once the Klonopin was restarted the panic attacks ceased. chip

Chip, I could have written this myself, line-for-line. Joe — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Okay.  I will start off with an odd introduction here.  I’ve been diagnosed with recurrent depression, GAD and PD since 2003.  I started a regimen of 25mg paxil and 1mg clonazepam.  Over a course of four years I’ve had it upped to 3mgs (well within the accepted dosage range for controlling panic and anxiety which to my knowledge is 1-4mgs) and discontinued paxil without any withdrawal that wasn’t bearable (only lasted a week, it was more annoying than anything). Now, come late March of this year and my pdoc asks me to start weaning of clonazepam.  I was warned a while ago from someone on an anti- benzo board about extremely dangerous withdrawal symptoms (they told me I wouldn’t even be able to started weaning without going insane… yeah right).  So that added a bit of paranoia and anxiety to someone predisposed to both on top of weaning off anti-anxiety medication. After months of being on anti-benzo boards which perpetuated a self- destructive state of mind, more hope fell apart as I was told things such as: "well, if you haven’t experienced extreme withdrawal yet, wait till you hit 0.Xmgs"; "you absolutely cannot wean directly off clonazepam dry cutting pills, you’re insane" etc, etc.  This at first didn’t put me off, but instead added to an INTENSE state of depression and panic.  I’m predisposed to both as I’ve said, and have had long stints of unemployment and suicidal ideation unmedicated.  Now, I think my self-preservation instincts are kicking in but it’s a tad bit late… but not too late.  I’m just broke, not in college and jobless.  I can remedy that situation once I resolve this issue that I might go bananas when I eventually quit clonazepam. The first step to get better for me is to stay far away from those anti-benzo places since all they throw around is paranoia and self- destruction (in one group, a moderator actually told me to use an online pharmacy to purchase more drugs to slow my taper even more (this taper is already a year long!  yeesh)).  The next step is to say, yes, I’m at a pretty low dosage and haven’t experienced ANY moderate withdrawal symptoms looking back on it all.  At first if I had a headache I’d think w/d.  Not attribute it to that we all get headaches all the time!  Or if I was anxious I’d think "here comes a seizure i think!"  Now, who needs to live in that shell-shocked existence?  I’ve been living like that for the past 6 months, and from now on I’m going to just take it as it comes, since nothing bad has happened yet which pretty much means nothing bad will happen as long as I follow this weaning schedule properly. Now, my perspective on why there’s so much panic about benzos is that there were a few who abruptly discontinued or detoxed rapidly from benzodiazepines and then spread their plights across the internet and through the medical community.  This creates a very negative atmosphere for anyone trying to wean off a benzodiazpeine, since ONLY the negative (and rare) side gets advertised.  The ones that never suffered any ill-effects never join an anti-benzo board, and their numbers are far more vast since I actually have 3 people in my family that had no problem whatsoever with benzo discontinuation even after years of use.  I’m down to 1/2 mg from 3 mgs.  I’m told on all of the anti-benzo boards I’m doing this wayy too quickly and I might drop dead if I continue.  Well… so far so good, so why the scare?  I think so that their methods aren’t tarnished by someone who can withdrawal differently. Sorry for the long introduction. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I did a slow wean off Klonopin over the course of several months and suffered no withdrawal symptoms. However, I did have the return of panic attacks while driving on the freeway. Once the Klonopin was restarted the panic attacks ceased. chip

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay.  I will start off with an odd introduction here.  I’ve been diagnosed with recurrent depression, GAD and PD since 2003.  I started a regimen of 25mg paxil and 1mg clonazepam.  Over a course of four years I’ve had it upped to 3mgs (well within the accepted dosage range for controlling panic and anxiety which to my knowledge is 1-4mgs) and discontinued paxil without any withdrawal that wasn’t bearable (only lasted a week, it was more annoying than anything). Now, come late March of this year and my pdoc asks me to start weaning of clonazepam.  I was warned a while ago from someone on an anti- benzo board about extremely dangerous withdrawal symptoms (they told me I wouldn’t even be able to started weaning without going insane… yeah right).  So that added a bit of paranoia and anxiety to someone predisposed to both on top of weaning off anti-anxiety medication. After months of being on anti-benzo boards which perpetuated a self- destructive state of mind, more hope fell apart as I was told things such as: "well, if you haven’t experienced extreme withdrawal yet, wait till you hit 0.Xmgs"; "you absolutely cannot wean directly off clonazepam dry cutting pills, you’re insane" etc, etc.  This at first didn’t put me off, but instead added to an INTENSE state of depression and panic.  I’m predisposed to both as I’ve said, and have had long stints of unemployment and suicidal ideation unmedicated.  Now, I think my self-preservation instincts are kicking in but it’s a tad bit late… but not too late.  I’m just broke, not in college and jobless.  I can remedy that situation once I resolve this issue that I might go bananas when I eventually quit clonazepam. The first step to get better for me is to stay far away from those anti-benzo places since all they throw around is paranoia and self- destruction (in one group, a moderator actually told me to use an online pharmacy to purchase more drugs to slow my taper even more (this taper is already a year long!  yeesh)).  The next step is to say, yes, I’m at a pretty low dosage and haven’t experienced ANY moderate withdrawal symptoms looking back on it all.  At first if I had a headache I’d think w/d.  Not attribute it to that we all get headaches all the time!  Or if I was anxious I’d think "here comes a seizure i think!"  Now, who needs to live in that shell-shocked existence?  I’ve been living like that for the past 6 months, and from now on I’m going to just take it as it comes, since nothing bad has happened yet which pretty much means nothing bad will happen as long as I follow this weaning schedule properly. Now, my perspective on why there’s so much panic about benzos is that there were a few who abruptly discontinued or detoxed rapidly from benzodiazepines and then spread their plights across the internet and through the medical community.  This creates a very negative atmosphere for anyone trying to wean off a benzodiazpeine, since ONLY the negative (and rare) side gets advertised.  The ones that never suffered any ill-effects never join an anti-benzo board, and their numbers are far more vast since I actually have 3 people in my family that had no problem whatsoever with benzo discontinuation even after years of use.  I’m down to 1/2 mg from 3 mgs.  I’m told on all of the anti-benzo boards I’m doing this wayy too quickly and I might drop dead if I continue.  Well… so far so good, so why the scare?  I think so that their methods aren’t tarnished by someone who can withdrawal differently. Sorry for the long introduction. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Rob, I’m quite sure that any of us here would respond appropriately to any clear, cut and dried threat. We may not do so well with the "what ifs", because we overthink the possibilities and create too many scenarios in our imaginations. Taking a decisive action simply removes a lot of the "what ifs". Good on you for NOT  caving to "stuffing your feelings". Keep moving ! Sue Western Maine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Good news out of bad news.     The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not around so much.    Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.            Thanks again!                        Rob — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Good news out of bad news.     The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not around so much.    Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.            Thanks again!                        Rob

Rob, The truth is more powerful (and empowering) than what we can make up and react to neurotically in our minds. You don’t need a gf who is not faithful anyway, nobody needs that. You dust yourself off, and try again when you are ready and the right woman appears. Good for you. Sally — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Good news out of bad news. ::    The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I ::broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not ::around so much. ::   Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive ::instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I ::felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" ::view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on ::other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the ::advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no ::chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only. Dear Rob, While I’m sorry this relationship didn’t work out…….I believe it’s healthier to be in no relationship than one that is dysfunctional. Wishing you peace and healing. Jackie ~*~~*~When you find yourself the victim of other people’s bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; remember, things could be worse.  You could be them~*~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Thanks for the support.   I don’t think it’s being in a relationship that’s the problem. It’s the person I’m in it with.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m a self-admitted work-a-holic when it suits me. I am set in my ways but in the past I would get all spun up and do the "what if" thing over, and over, and over. No more.  I don’t know what is changed or if I’m just growing up but settling for less is just not for me.  A crappy mix with depression and anxiety one must admit. I take a lot of the blame but as whacked as it sounds, like I said. I feel solid about this. Something I can’t say I have felt in years.  Living in flux sucks. Too bad it took me so long to "grow a set"

Maybe that relationship wasn’t right. I hope things go better for you from now on Rob. Mary — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

   Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or    depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.

        Wow!  That WONDERFUL, Rob!  Usually in a situation like that I ruminate over it a long time afterwards!  I’m going through that right now over my last job.  You did great, and I’m glad you stood your ground.   Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Glad to hear this, Rob.  Whenever there’s no anxiety, etc., it’s a good thing. Hugs, Di

Good news out of bad news.    The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not around so much.   Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.           Thanks again!                       Rob

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Thanks for the support.   I don’t think it’s being in a relationship that’s the problem. It’s the person I’m in it with.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m a self-admitted work-a-holic when it suits me. I am set in my ways but in the past I would get all spun up and do the "what if" thing over, and over, and over. No more.  I don’t know what is changed or if I’m just growing up but settling for less is just not for me.  A crappy mix with depression and anxiety one must admit. I take a lot of the blame but as whacked as it sounds, like I said. I feel solid about this. Something I can’t say I have felt in years.  Living in flux sucks. Too bad it took me so long to "grow a set" Sorry about your breakup. Maybe a relationship for now was too much for you. Or maybe that one didn’t work out. Good you are feeling better. You can always post here whenever you feel like it. Mary

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Good news out of bad news.     The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not around so much.    Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.            Thanks again!                        Rob

Sorry about your breakup. Maybe a relationship for now was too much for you. Or maybe that one didn’t work out. Good you are feeling better. You can always post here whenever you feel like it. Mary — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Good news out of bad news.     The girl I was seeing and was upfront about me being nuts and all and I broke it off yesterday. I just found out she was with someone else and not around so much.    Now, for what reason I have had no panic attacks, stress, or depressive instance. Not like I’m glad it’s over or anything. That always sucks but I felt empowered by holding my ground and looking at this in a "reality" view/perspective.  It really helped, no joke. Thanks for all that advice on other issues. It sure helped here. I guess you can all take comfort on the advice you have given me- It’s working! No changes in meds. No doc’s no chat. Nadda. Reality 101 only.            Thanks again!                        Rob — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster   Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster   Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement?

Lot’s of room for improvement! Tony — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Room for MUCH improvement.  :-( Di

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,

There is only a little room for improvement.  Klonopin and Inderal keep my anxiety 90% under control. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? At this time there is room for improvement. Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I see a room for improvement.  Still living with underlying anxiety and my fear of driving. smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? At this time there is room for improvement. Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,

hello Jackie do you still have the anxious feelings ? Still on 12.5 mg paroxetine ? Love from Anna — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster   Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,

I am content I am so much better than 10 years ago ! Or for all of my life so : I take the little bad with the much good ATM much love from Anna — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement?

It is better than it was but there is a lot of room for improvement. — Ron P Member of the invisible generation — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

08/25/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own mystery poster Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement? Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,

Tons of room to improve.      Rob — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Would you say your anxiety disorder is adequately controlled or is there room for improvement?

        Lots of room for improvement. Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::hello Jackie do you still have the anxious feelings ? ::Still on 12.5 mg paroxetine ? Hi Miss Anna, I’m having some issues with my thyroid which is causing a lot of anxiety. I had to increase my dose of Paxil to 20 mgs a few weeks ago. The increase has helped Jackie ~*~Sit and daydream, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind~*~  ~~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi Miss Anna, I’m having some issues with my thyroid which is causing a lot of anxiety. I had to increase my dose of Paxil to 20 mgs a few weeks ago. The increase has helped

I am glad the minor increase helped you Thyroid problems can cuase severe anxiety ! Which all together is BLAAAAAAAAAAA Wishing you anxiety free times to come ! Love from Anna — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – lorazepam, in particular.

This is a little late, but maybe you will see it.  Years ago I tried Nortriptyline and it was the first drug that touched my depression. Wishing you good luck, Tony — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for ::which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – ::lorazepam, in particular. :: ::Any comments on possible side-effects and what not?  This is not really ::off-topic because I’m afraid that something might go wrong.  My concern ::stems. I think, from a spate of panic attacks and the consequence of a fall ::I had in Dec ‘06. Dear Info, Just wanted to wish you lots of luck and success with your new med! I know life’s been tough for you lately. Keep us updated! Jackie ~*~Not only is life a bitch, but it is always having puppies~*~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for ::which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – ::lorazepam, in particular. :: ::Any comments on possible side-effects and what not?  This is not really ::off-topic because I’m afraid that something might go wrong.  My concern ::stems. I think, from a spate of panic attacks and the consequence of a fall ::I had in Dec ‘06. Dear Info, Just wanted to wish you lots of luck and success with your new med! I know life’s been tough for you lately. Keep us updated! Jackie ~*~Not only is life a bitch, but it is always having puppies~*~

I read the warning-caution-indication pamphlet on it when it got here and I am not going to take it, yet.  The possible side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, and what not.  I’m emailing my doctor today. I’m too freaking tired from the sleep apnea and with all the anticonvulsants, neuropathy, and other stuff I take I don’t want another load of that.  It also can harden stool.  I already take a stool softener because of the anti-convulsants. I sleep five hours a day in addition to 10 hours a night because of the apnea.  Guess what?  Starting Monday, workmen will be in my bedroom all day working on the repair of the outside of this building. Oh, joy unbounded! Maybe, just, maybe I’ll check into a hotel for the week. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – lorazepam, in particular.

It is a good med to augment the antidepressant effects of an SSRI. Nortrip hits norepinephrine and the SSRI hits serotonin. The drugs (or combo of drugs) that affect two or more transmitters seem to be more effective for depression. The MAO inhibitors affert 3 neurotransmitters, and seem to be the most effective antidepressants. I’m on a similar combo: desipramine and Zoloft to prevent recurrant depression. And Klonopin to keep the anxiety level down. Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for ::which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – ::lorazepam, in particular. :: ::Any comments on possible side-effects and what not?  This is not really ::off-topic because I’m afraid that something might go wrong.  My concern ::stems. I think, from a spate of panic attacks and the consequence of a fall ::I had in Dec ‘06. Dear Info, Just wanted to wish you lots of luck and success with your new med! I know life’s been tough for you lately. Keep us updated! Jackie ~*~Not only is life a bitch, but it is always having puppies~*~ I read the warning-caution-indication pamphlet on it when it got here and I am not going to take it, yet.  The possible side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, and what not.  I’m emailing my doctor today. I’m too freaking tired from the sleep apnea and with all the anticonvulsants, neuropathy, and other stuff I take I don’t want another load of that.  It also can harden stool.  I already take a stool softener because of the anti-convulsants. I sleep five hours a day in addition to 10 hours a night because of the apnea.  Guess what?  Starting Monday, workmen will be in my bedroom all day working on the repair of the outside of this building. Oh, joy unbounded! Maybe, just, maybe I’ll check into a hotel for the week.

The nice workmen just told me they need to be here for only a couple hours on Monday.  Their stupid notice says two to three weeks.  Go figure The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – lorazepam, in particular. Any comments on possible side-effects and what not?  This is not really off-topic because I’m afraid that something might go wrong.  My concern stems. I think, from a spate of panic attacks and the consequence of a fall I had in Dec ‘06.

snip: IMO, I would make a list of all the meds and over the counter drugs including vitamins, etc. you take and give it to your pdoc and pharmacist.  The pharmacist would probably have more information about them.  I would not take it without voicing my concern with my pdoc. I’m concerned about the Prozac/Nortriptyline combo.  Food for thot. -frizz — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

My doctor just added this to my daily regimen.  It is for depression for which I have been taking Prozac for ages.  I’m on a ton of other drugs – lorazepam, in particular. Any comments on possible side-effects and what not?  This is not really off-topic because I’m afraid that something might go wrong.  My concern stems. I think, from a spate of panic attacks and the consequence of a fall I had in Dec ‘06. Thanks — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Oh my goodness Jackie! Weren’t you Hypothyroid? Oops sorry just reread your post. I guess this is why docs monitor our Thyroid function so closely. Just keep reminding yourself that you’ll feel better in a few days. Thyroid problems can really screw us up baby. (((((Jackie))))) Love Cathy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"   ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated!

        Hi Jackie!  I’m glad you found out what the problem was.  Perhaps I shouldn’t say it, but maybe it’s better that it’s a physical problem like that.  I often feel that sort of thing is easier to manage than an anxiety problem.   Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated!

It is a good thing that you found out what was causing this awful experience! I hope that you will be feeling better soon. ((((((((((((Jackie))))))))))))) — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Good luck, Jackie!  I’m glad you found a concrete explanation for this already.  It must have been like a nightmare! Be well. — _TJ_ <TJ_IREL at YAHOO dot IE – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"   ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Take care of yourself (((Jackie))) Chip Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"    ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at:http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm — The charter is available at:http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

sorry to hear that you’ve been going through this. the good thing is that you hopefully found what may have been causing these attacks….the thyroid being off.  i know when im physically off that panic can be triggered also.  hang in there …wishing you the best russ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::sorry to hear that you’ve been going through this. the good thing is ::that you hopefully found what may have been causing these ::attacks….the thyroid being off.  i know when im physically off that ::panic can be triggered also.  hang in there …wishing you the best Thanks for your kind words. (((((Russ))))) Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::I am so very sorry about this. You have all of my support. I hope that ::the reduction in the Synthoid is what you need to help you feel more ::like yourself. This is sad, I know anxiety is cyclical, but my mind ::doesn’t want to accept that. I do hope this has an underlying physical ::cause that can be addressed and fixed – You need to speak up sooner – ::suffering in silence does not work very well – not for me, anyway. ::Please let us know how you are doing and if there is anything we can ::do for you. We care. Thanks (((((Sally))))) for your kind thoughts and support. Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Good luck, Jackie!  I’m glad you found a concrete explanation ::for this already.  It must have been like a nightmare! Thanks (((((TJ))))) The best thing I can do is not talk about it and move on…… and that is exactly what I plan to do Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::I’m sorry you have been through all this but I’m glad a cause was found. ::  Hang tight until the med change works. I’m hanging tight I’m trying to take it one day at a time. A little Xanax will make the waiting a little bit easier Oh hail the benzo gods (((((WB Man))))) ::Oh!  And I finally copied, printed and hung the below in my office. ::It’s so true! So cool! Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Dear Jacky :: ::I wish I could hold you in my arms, the same as I do with my children. You brought tears to my eyes. Thank you! (((((Diana))))) Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Dear Jackie, Sorry to hear you are going through a bad spell. You help so ::many others here. I hope you are doing better by now. But good you found out ::was causing it. ::Best wishes. Thanks (((((Mary))))) for your support and kind words. Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Oh my goodness Jackie! Weren’t you Hypothyroid? Oops sorry just reread your ::post. I guess this is why docs monitor our Thyroid function so closely. ::Just keep reminding yourself that you’ll feel better in a few days. Thyroid ::problems can really screw us up baby. It’s going to take a few weeks. Patient I am NOT! Thyroid problems suck big time! Thanks for your support. (((((Cathy))))) Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::You’re in my thoughts and prayers.  I hope you feel better real soon. Thanks Di! It’s comforting to know I’m in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you! (((((Di))))) Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::anyway, how supportive can a person be thru email or posting other than ::contributing positive thots , energy, how the saying goes???? :: ::if thats what peple need or want, thats what i can offer, as everyone ::should…wordy, but Thanks (((((Victoria))))) for your support and sweet words. Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::      Hi Jackie!  I’m glad you found out what the problem was.  Perhaps I ::shouldn’t say it, but maybe it’s better that it’s a physical problem like ::that.  I often feel that sort of thing is easier to manage than an anxiety ::problem.   When I was told on Monday that my thyroid was hyper……I was thrilled. The problem is hyper symptoms are very similar to anxiety. Also, a hyperthyroid can trigger anxiety, panic and depression. Thanks for your support. (((((Dennis))))) Jackie ~*~I have seen the sea when it is stormy and wild; when it is quiet and serene; when it is dark and moody. And in all its moods, I see myself~*~      ~~Martin Buxbaum — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated!

Dear Jackie, Sorry to hear you are going through a bad spell. You help so many others here. I hope you are doing better by now. But good you found out was causing it. Best wishes. Mary — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie

Hi Jackie, Great that you found a cause for your elevated symptoms! Goes to show how very important good diagnosis is, since so many of our symptoms can be easily dismissed as anxiety attacks. I sweat like crazy in the summer, get hypersensitive, muscle tics or tremors, often have anxiety in the shower, etc., but my blood tests are normal so pretty sure it’s anxiety disorder in my case. Very Best Wishes, Arthur — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie

Oh (((((Jackie)))) I am so very sorry about this. You have all of my support. I hope that the reduction in the Synthoid is what you need to help you feel more like yourself. This is sad, I know anxiety is cyclical, but my mind doesn’t want to accept that. I do hope this has an underlying physical cause that can be addressed and fixed – You need to speak up sooner – suffering in silence does not work very well – not for me, anyway. Please let us know how you are doing and if there is anything we can do for you. We care. Love, Sally — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated!

I’m sorry you have been through all this but I’m glad a cause was found.   Hang tight until the med change works. ((((((Jackie)))))) Oh!  And I finally copied, printed and hung the below in my office. It’s so true! "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"    ~~ Dr. Seuss

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Dear Jacky I wish I could hold you in my arms, the same as I do with my children. Love Diana – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"   ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Take care of yourself (((Jackie))) Chip

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"    ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

jackie, thot i had a question to submit , forgot it already…. anyway, how supportive can a person be thru email or posting other than contributing positive thots , energy, how the saying goes???? if thats what peple need or want, thats what i can offer, as everyone should…wordy, but i know what its like to feel that way, ; remember reading in the thyroid website about the s;ymptoms of hyperthyroidism and how people can confuse those symtoms with heart problems. this is the first time i have heard of someone having a panic attack while sitting or laying down. glad to hear you mite be feeling better and asking for support. ~v~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

You’re in my thoughts and prayers.  I hope you feel better real soon. Love, Di

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi, Jackie, I’m sure this was all very frightening for you.  So much of it sounds like anxiety-related symptoms.  Glad you had this checked out and hoping that the reduction in your Synthroid puts you back into a more normal existence. Wishing you a more peaceful and calmer day knowing what the problem is… smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"   ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi Friends, On June 21 st, I had a nasty panic attack while taking a shower. I tried to shrug it off as just one of those things. On June 23rd, I suffered another panic attack while laying down watching tv. I noticed my heart was beating very fast. Again, I try to shrug it off. On the 24th, I was experiencing a lot of free floating anxiety. Went to work on the 25th and experienced a panic attack. My heart was racing, I felt confused and my blood sugar was through the roof. I finished my shift, drove home in a anxiety-induced daze and suffered another panic attack in the shower. This has been my life since June 22nd. I have pushed myself to do everything that needed to be done, work, shopping and doctor appts. All my physical symptoms, like severe diarrhea, no appetite, losing 14 pounds in 3 weeks, insane sweating, tremors, shaky legs, hair loss, fasting blood sugars reaching as high as 200, sensitivity to light, irritibility……like wanting to scream at the singing birds in the morning and feeling like I was living in a fog……were all attributed to anxiety!! Quess what? I found out that my thyroid is moderately hyper!!! Hopefully in a few days I’ll be feeling more like myself from reducing my Synthroid. Support and reassurances will be greatly appreciated! Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"    ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

07/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur   Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them? Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"    ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them?

        I’ve thought the bad ones owe me restitution.  :-) Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them?         I’ve thought the bad ones owe me restitution.  :-) Dennis —

I have never been to a real therepist, but I have been to several doctors for panic attacks. My doc and my psychiatrist both like to complain about their jobs to me. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

07/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them?

I’ve had that experience so I quit going to him. — Ron P Member of the invisible generation — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I believe in learn and live.  If the therapist isn’t giving you what you need, find a new one… smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 07/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them? Jackie "Be Who You Are.. And Say What You Feel.. Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter.. And Those That Matter Don’t Mind…"   ~~ Dr. Seuss — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

07/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them?

No. But my first psychiatrist (1966-67) was really sick (neurotic). I think she did me more harm than good. One time I came to her office feeling really good cause I had just bought a new golf jacket. She couldn’t stand seeing me feeling good cause my feeling bad made her feel good. So she went to town on me. And told me I must be REALLY sick if nothing but a new jacket made me feel that good. Hearing that made me feel BAD, and I went back into my depressed mode. Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

07/08/07: Today’s question is being brought to you by our very own Arthur  

Have you ever thought that your therapist should, perhaps, be paying you, rather than you paying them? Yes indeed, a couple of my pdocs.  I know one of them was on drugs (he had a huge Haldol mug on his desk and I know there wasn’t coffee in it cause I looked.  We had a group therapist who was afraid of the group and left after the second session — he actually set up off on a dead end path of discussion.  One of my pdocs actually handed me her script pad and told me to write my own (she was sticking it to me cause I was asking so many questions — questioning her knowledge). I like Elise’s answer.  I’ve walked out on at least one.  Luckily I’m happy with the pdoc I have now; altho, I wish he would off label prescribe. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

sometimes its helpful to mention it ; especially when they arent listening and dont plan to; saying something like, sometimes it seems like each of us are on the wrong side of the desk can startle them. ~v~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response: