anxiety Q&A
Q: how can I help my dog deal with separation anxiety without putting her on medication?
A:
Separation Anxiety is a tricky one, it can be very difficult to turn around.
I followed this procedure when fixing my own dog - http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/separation-anxiety-in-dogs.html
Hope you find some good tips there.
Q: Does anyone else take Lexapro for generalized anxiety disorder? If so what side effects do you experience?
I have been taking Lexapro for 2 weeks now for GAD, not depression. I take one 10mg pill a day. I can tell it is helping. If I take it at night I wake up feeling dizzy in the morning, so I started taking it in the morning and if I’m not active it makes me tired and I’ve been getting headaches every day which is the worst side effect so far. Do they go away after a while? Thanks to anyone who answers.
A:
Hi. I have been taking this for about 3 months.Mainly for anxiety.
It was horrible for the first 3 weeks, I used to yawn all the time and grit my teeth, want to sleep all the time, get dizzy spells but one day it just seemed to kick in and I feel really good now. Stick with it for another month and see how you go you can always try something else.
I tried Zoloft once. OMG it turned me into a moron, I used to dribble it was awful. so lexepro is pretty mild compared to that. GOOD LUCK
Q: What is an anxiety disorder or panics attacks..exits a cure for this?
A:
Anxiety disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions that all have a common symptom (i.e. anxiety). You’ll hear about GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) on the TV sometimes. It is perhaps the most widespread of all disorders in this group. Phobias get a lot of attention, too (e.g. arachniphobia — the fear of spiders); they are members of this group.
Panic disorder is also a member of this group. Panic disorder is when a person suffers from recurrent panic attacks that are not due to any specific cause (e.g. LSS, heroin, and other drugs can cause recurrent panic but the person would have a drug problem, not panic disorder). Panic attacks occur when symptoms come on suddenly and at near-full intensity. Symptoms are variable. The list includes, but is not limitted to: dizziness, blurry vision, headache, dry mouth, tingling lips, trouble breathing, chest pain, palpitations, upset stomach, tingling/numbness in fingers or elsewhere, feeling trapped, feeling panicky, feeling as if you are not really the one who is panicking, sense of impending doom.
Yes there are treatments for all (and cures for most) anxiety disorders. The best proven treatment for panic disorder is “cognitive-behaivoral therapy (CBT).” This involves learning what types of things can trigger your panic attacks so that, when a panic attack starts, you can control it and move on. There are some medications to assist with this. For life-threatenning (or other types of very serious panic) there are short-term medicines (e.g. Ativan or Xanax). To aid in reducing panic while learning cognitive-behavioral approaches, other medicines (e.g. Effexor XR) are better than the short-term medicines. But medical studies show that people consistently get better long-term relief from CBT than from drugs alone. You’ll hear stories from people who’ll state, “This drug is the only one that works. You should use it.” It probably is true that that person experienced improvement while on that drug, but each person is different, especially when it comes to medications, and even more especially when it comes to psychiatric medicaitions.
Learn more at http://familydoctor.org/137.xml
Q: Are YOU Pro-life or Pro-Choice?
This isnтАЩt a question I want you to answer with an IтАЩm pro-choice, or IтАЩm pro-life. I want you to tell me how you would feel about getting an abortion. And for men, how would you feel about your baby being aborted by the mother. Whether she is your wife, or a one-night stand mistake. It may be against your religion or beliefs, but what would YOU do. Please be honest. I used to be an extreme pro-lifer, but then I thought about the ethics in making a woman carry another living life form in her own body and decided it should be up to her. Our bodies in reality belong to us, it is the only thing we do have ownership of that cannot be taken away in this world. In a way it is like forcing someone that destroys someone elseтАЩs kidney in a car accident to give theirтАЩs to the victim. There is a strong ethical feeling of responsibility and debt; however you just canтАЩt take the kidney. Think about it this way too, the same thing happens, but you have to carry around this sick person like a sort of living life-support machine for nine months. After that, you are responsible for paying the medical bills of that person and taking care of them for the rest of your life. Would that be fun? However, there is that guilt that remains. However the is the option of adoption, a excellent way to no longer have another human being in your responsibility if you arenтАЩt up to the job. Nearly all of the people that can adopt your baby are wonderful people and married couples that canтАЩt reproduce, or want to take a child into their home. You have the choice to decide where you want the child to go. I believe there is nothing ethnically wrong with giving up your child to a better and loving family. I myself believe in pro-choice; however, I feel that abortion is a horrific thing that is done by either people that blind themselves to the actual life form they abort, or people that are just too selfish to think about creating another life. However, as a teenager, my family was extremely strict. I have severe depression and anxiety problems. If I had ever gotten pregnant, adoption and life would not have been a choice. I mean my life. I would have killed myself to avoid being extricated by my family and facing the horrible consequences of being pregnant. I think too many parents/families make this horrible decision not to support their children when they get pregnant. Mostly parents that are religious. This is why I also hate religion because it creates such fear and guilt in young teenagers for their sexual desires and behaviors instead of realistic and helpful behaviors. Studies show that as abstinence only programs are ineffective and I believe it may add to the pregnancy problem even more drastically. Teen gets pregnant because he/she feels too guilty to pick up condoms/birth control and gets an abortion to avoid persecution from overly righteous parents. If more parents talked to their children and gave them birth control and condoms less pregnancies might occur. If more parents wouldnтАЩt make children feel horrible guilt for having sex and getting pregnant I think fewer abortions would occur. Even now as a young adult, I consider abortion an option. For one thing, I am not financially independent, have bipolar disorder, an unhealthy unstable relationship, and a family that does not accept illegitimate children. If I got pregnant I would be thrown out of my house, my family would treat me like I was a ****, and I would become depressed and feel terrible. IтАЩm not mentally stable enough to handle a child, which is why I avoid getting pregnant. But I must admit, if my family was more accepting, I wouldnтАЩt even consider getting an abortion and instead would think about adoption. The idea of chopping up those little embryoтАЩs, which may not look human but have hands, bodies, and forming organs tears apart my heart. I wouldnтАЩt think about what I was doing, which is what most women that get abortions do. You canтАЩt, because if you did, you wouldnтАЩt be able to do it. After looking at images of babies aborted at 8 weeks, I couldnтАЩt bare the thought of getting rid of mine. But I wonтАЩt take that option away from other women that choose to do it. I think we as a society should stop putting such negative vibes out over birth control and adoption, as if the parent is such a terrible person for not keeping their child. IтАЩd gladly give my child to a loving family with stable finances, mental stability, and compassion. If only the stigmas on women that give their children to other families wasnтАЩt so bad. It is like the child becomes a ghost that comes back later in your life to haunt you with guilt and tales of misery and hell you put them through. In the end, I am pro-choice; however, my choice is not to abort my child if I ever have one. I canтАЩt imagine slicing up that little person that will soon come out of my body and open its eyes to the world. I just hope that world will be a loving and compassionate one that will accept the child with open arms.
A:
I am in favour of abortions, yes. I take this stance because:
- People cannot control their instincts, anyone who argues for abstinence is a freaking moron.
- The world is overpopulated as it is, more babies is the last thing we need.
- The thing which an abortion “kills” is not truly human, it’s brain is not developed enough to justify the claim that it has a soul.
Of course, it is still supposed to be a last resort, only used if the pill, condom etc. fail.
Q: How can I relieve stress?
I am getting tired of life. I don’t hate life, but the things that exist. I just need to know any good tips on how to relieve stress. I don’t drink or do any kind of substances. I have not done drugs in years, but smoke weed on occasion when I get really stressed. Besides exrecising and listening to music, what are some other good outlets to let off frustration? Oh yeah, and besides sex. Courage: That is my attitude to a “T” and I know murphy’s law. Maybe that is why I get anxiety at times. Just like a buddhist teaching. I desire peace and that is how I exist. And that is where I find my happiness. A noble truth is all of our sufferings stems from our desires. And suffering will cease if desire ceases. But I covet peace and will die for it. Martyre of my own. I guess this is just a good test of will for patience and tolerance. Your answer actually made me feal better. Thanks!
A:
You should try to develop a different attitude, try to be more laid-back about things that annoy you. Maybe take on a “don’t care” attitude.
Corny and stupid as this may sound, I have always found that watching silly comedy shows relieves stress, they make me laugh and make me stop thinking for a while. A good long walk always helps me too.
For funny reference, read Murphy’s law lol, it will help you.
Q: is something wrong with me or am i just normal??
i’m a 20yoF and i feel like i’ve been 25 since i was 15. i’ve always been real serious and always really cared about what people thought to an almost displeasurable degree. i’m somewhat a worry wart but not purposely..my mom and her mom were both the same way and sometimes i feel that i analyze things to the point that my brain can’t function anymore. i’m pretty outgoing..most people know me as happy go lucky, yet there is a side of me that only few know about..a side of sheer loneliness, emptiness, sadness, anger, guilt….sometimes i hit rock bottom….sometimeslife is MORE than an effort to live, yet i have absolutely NO reason to feel this way….i’ve been to the doctor and he seems to think i have anxiety and depression….hhmmm…idk…others seem to think that i’m just having normal ups and downs…i’m tired of wondering, tired of going to doctors, tired of feeling inadequate to the world. so, is this normal?
A:
I think you need to change doctors. If the one you are seeing isn’t giving you the answers you need, or helping you feel better, then you need to find one who will. A certain amount of worrying and anxiety is normal and healthy, but when it interferes with your every day life, it is time to do something about it. You sound like an intelligent, bright young woman and should be able to work through this. It is definitely not normal to think that “sometimes life is MORE than an effort to live”. You need to find a doctor who can treat all of you not just your symptoms. And I think you need to find that doctor quickly. Make sure testing is done for chemical imbalances and other physical ailments that could be the cause of your feelings. Only when you find the cause, can you find the solution. Good Luck to you. You will be in my thoughts.
Q: What is good for withdrawl from xanax?
I am weening off of xanax and was wondering when I have breakthrough withdrawls like extended anxiety and heart racing what to do? Any expierience from anyone?
A:
Withdrawel symptoms are natual when stopping a drug like xanax. If you do get some withdrawel symptoms that means you should stick at the dose you are at currently and wait for the anxiety to lessen before continuing to decrease the dose.
(Example: If you are on 2mg of Xanax and you go down and you get more anxious at 1mg, stick at the 1mg for about a week until the anxiety decreases. Then continue to work on getting of the Xanax from there) Good luck…
Q: i have a medicine question?
my doctor has me on buspar in the day time for day time anxiety and on xanax for night time anxiety, i’m also on prozac for depression, and a little small amout of seraquil for sleep. My question is do u know if it’s safe to mix zanax and buspar?
A:
Only a registered pharmacist or doctor can tell you for certain what the effects of a medicine or interaction with another med may be. That being said, the below link should be of great value to you in making an informed decision before calling your doctor.
http://www.drugs.com/buspar.html
http://www.drugs.com/xanax.html
Q: do u think it’s bad for me?
my doctor has me on buspar in the day time for day time anxiety and on xanax for night time anxiety, i’m also on prozac for depression, and a little small amout of seraquil for sleep. My question is do u know if it’s safe to mix zanax and buspar?
A:
Please let your doctor know about all of your medications and get a second opinion. If there is any counter-reactions from the multiple medicines you are taking, it could cause death.
For example, Anna Nicole-Smith’s son died due to a reaction caused by unsafely prescribed medicines. His heart-stopped because of medicines he was on for depression and anxiety too.
Out of concern for my fellow man, check that out soon cause life is too precious for a mistake like that to take your life.
God bless.
Q: I have to take 100mg of Zoloft for my anxiety disorder each day. will I gain weight & Is it safe if I am 37?
A:
I have been on Zoloft for years and it has made no difference to my weight, it has also had no effects of my health in general provided i am taking it as recommended by my doctor (ie regularly, correct dosage, and not suddenly going on and off of it).
Also note that any side effects that do occur (and this is common) generally subside within a few weeks.
Of course every medication has different effects on different people - Check out http://www.rxlist.com - for further info on the common side effects.
Good luck! 
Q: Combining Lexapro and Klonpin, is it dangerous?
Hello. I am taking lexapro but the side effects seem to me very painfull (vomiting, anxiety, nausea, stomach pain, diarhea). Is it possible to combine Klonopin with lexapro?
A:
I have been weaning off of xanax which is in the same class of drug as Klonopin. He put me on zoloft. I was already ill from the withdrawl, but zoloft made it worse. the vomiting was awful. He took me off of zoloft saying it was aggitating the situation and gave me stomach medicine. Already feel better. Lost 22 pounds. Please try and get off of the Klonopin. It is addicting and hard to withdraw. Talk to your doc. soon. before the addiction because too hard to bear.
good luck
Q: what should I do?
Me and my boyfriend, we have some problems…I love him, he says he loves me too but there are 2 weeks now since he acts strange: he never has time for me.I always get the second place.I give him everything and I expect the same thing from him.I am sad every day and I have a feeling of anxiety every moment of the day.Should I brake up with him?
A:
People will only treat you as well as you teach them to. I believe, without a shadow of a doubt, that if you feel something is off in your relationship - there is. Treat yourself with respect and others will too. If your self-esteem and sanity is being compromised you owe it to your self to BREAK it off with him.
Q: Weird feeling in your legs when taking Lexapro or paxil?
I’ve tried a month of each, but after a week or so of taking them, I get this feeling that someone is pouring warm water down the front of my calves! I thought I’d pee’d on myself the first time I felt this sensation! It’s not at all painful, but it is very distracting. Almost like my leg is about to fall asleep. I could really use some medication for anxiety and depression, but I’m afraid of this happening again. Thanks!
A:
I have a friend who described a similar sensation on Lexapro. Let your doc know and stop taking it. There are lots of antianxiety and antipsychotic medications available, and the most frustrating part is finding one that works.
Zoloft usually is well tolerated, as is Celexa (which is commonly used for depression). Try asking for a different medication.
Q: I have anxiety and fear!?
I started having the problems when 8 years ago. I am a male. I had a parent with mental problems when i was growning up which was tough to deal with as a child. Everything was pretty normal for me through my twenties until my marriage started going down hill,then divorce and a family member past away. It was devistating. I started having the anxiety and fear going to work. My heart would fluctuate and my breathing would get hard. I started having allergies to pollen too. I went to the docters and they told me i have anxiety. I cant even feel comfortable in public or a social situation. I tried one after another of the ssri’s and other anti anxiety drugs 6 different ones that made things worse or side effects were too bad. I have tried exercise,breathing,bvitamins but it still seems like its just always going to be there. It makes me dred going in a store to the point that I avoid it because I dont want to run into anyone I know. Ive been off the pills now for almost 2 years. Any sug?
A:
Are you having panic attacks? Those are different than anxiety. Anxiety disorders are intense feellings so strong taht a person is unable to funtion on a day today basis.
Panic attack are periods of intense fear and physical discomfort, in which a person feels overwhelmed and terrified by a range of bodily sensations that causes a person to feel they are losing control. Some symptoms are pounding heart, sweating, trembleing, shortness of breath and so on. A person may hove one or more of these symptoms.
There is social phobia in which an individual experience is specific to certain situations and then there is agoraphobia which is more generalized, meaning intense anxiety about being trapped, stranded, or embarrassed in a situation without help if a panic attack were to occur.
Ok now with all of these there is treatment. Medication is helpful but there should be some thearpy that goes along with it. Such as graduated exposure. If the store causes you anxiety then slowly work your way to it. Start off with a smaller store that causes little anxiety and work your way up to the bigger store.
There is also relaxation thearpy where the psychologist will teach you how to tense your body and then relax.
I recommend that you go to a psychologist tell him what is going on with you and ask him/her about cognitive-behavioral thearpy. Ask about the relaxation thearpy and the graduate exposure. Keep in mind that your not going to get better overnight. It will take time and effort. Also keep in mind that you don’t want to keep living like this, because it is only going to get worse without help.
From what I gather you have maldaptive thoughts and faulty learning experiences that probably started in childhood and then developed into more during your divorce.
While your talking to a psycholgist mention your family history that will also give him/her some more insight. The more you tell the better the chance of recovering. Meaning they will find the right kind of treatment that suits your needs.
Good luck (I am not a professional, only a student in the begining of psychology.)
Q: Always tired is it Seroxat or what????
I am a 28 year old female who for the last 8 years have been taking 40mg of seroxat (paroxatine) daily for anxiety and depression. I am now fat almost 5 stones overweight and constantly tired to the point where I shake if I dont sleep. I wake at night starving and eat chocolate because I am so hungry. I have had blood tests done and they were normal. I am sick of living like this and have not much to offer my kids as I am always so tired to do anything with them like park trips cinema etc…. I have tried to diet and it dont last 2 minutes I am constantly hungry to the point where I feel sick and have to eat. I sleep for 3 hours each day as well as at night. I need some help I am too scared to come off Seroxat as I will become very ill and that would be even worse. My husband is sick of me being in bed and who can blame him???? Please help someone.
A:
Talk to your doctor there may be an alternitive medication for you or even a smmaler dosage might still help but without needing to sleep so mutch.
Q: Is this normal?
I am sixteen weeks pregnant. I know I have awhile to go before labor but I am really terrified of it…Is it normal to have some serious anxiety over labor? I mean I am not even that sure what scares me so bad…if its just not knowing or what..I know its gonna hurt and all and I dont really think thats what it is but I dunno.. is it normal to be real scared about it? Does the anxiety go awhile the more the pregnancy progresses? Thanks for your answers in advance. (first pregnancy) If you are not gonna give good comforting advice and just be rude…then plz dont waste your time answering..cuz I dont wanna hear what you have to say!
A:
First off, congrats on the new bundle coming!! Sorry you’ve gotten some rude answers. Gotta expect that one here though I suppose…
So, I think you are totally *normal* in your fears. Of course, normal is a relative thing too…LOL!!! hey…i have delivered 5 children, and am currently pregnant…tomorrow completes week 12. I am scared too. Silly? Maybe…
So I delivered all but one child vaginally..one over 9 pounds with no meds (not by choice mind you!!) I won’t tell you it doesn’t hurt, but I have been with my sister when she had a baby and she never cried or made a sound until pushing. Do you have a huigh pain tolerance?? I’m kind of in between. However, my fear is, I haven’t really delivered/labored *naturally* since my second…the 9+ pounder. The other 3 were all inductions, which in my opinion…hurt a whole lot more.
I got something called Nubaine…I think they use Stadol too?? Anyway, something like Nubaine. Takes the edge off without drugging you out, and without totally making it pain free. Not too bad with a natural labor. There is an epidural too girlldid you forget that?? I told my doc to sign me up already!! LOL!!! I wanna go totally PAIN FREE!!! however, the odds of me delivering early are high, and the odds of me having a baby over 7 pounds are not that high, so I might choose to go with a natural labor.
relax…you have time to decide. Research all your options. Your are a normal first timer, and everything will work out for you!!!
Good luck!!
Q: Alternative Options to Medicating Anxiety/Depression?
So i just got diagnosed with anxiety issues, and a possiblity of mild depression. I’ve been doing some research on the medications offered, and was wondering what some other options might be. I’ve heard of accupuncture, or message therepy, or natural supplements? Have any of you tried these? Did it work?
A:
I don’t know about the anxiety disorder, but I do know about the depression. No one thing helped me completely. I had to have a combination of a few treatments. I take medication which helps tremendously but does not completely resolve the depression. Massage therapy is helping a lot as are some natural supplements. The combination is doing well. Acupuncture and counseling are out of my price range right now, but I have investigated both and if you get the right people to treat it, I have “heard” it is a tremendous help.
Good luck to you. If you have a good, understanding doctor, do not be afraid of the medications though. He or she will closely monitor you to make sure you are safely on the right medication.
Q: Dropping AP Class Because Of Headaches?
I have Anxiety Disorder and my counselor decided to dump me into a AP course… in one of my worse subjects… Science. Ever since the first week, I have been getting this KILLER headaches everyday day, 24/7. It would get so bad, I had to remove my glasses and just massage my face. At first, I was not sure why my head was hurting, but my mother said it was because of stress. As of now, my head is throbbing because I feel uneasy of a test tomorrow. I am dropping the class before I end up getting panic attacks again, etc. Something which is painful because it makes it hard for me to breathe. Even if I am dropping tomorrow, can anyone give me tips on how to make these headaches go away? It mostly is around my brow area. Any exercises? Please? And do not tell me to stay in AP, my health is more important than a stupid class. This stress can also lead to Sleep Paralysis. Firstly, I am not working for a degree. I am a 16 year old girl in High School. LOL. I have a long way to go before I get into College, thanks.
A:
I used to sweat so bad in HS from anxiety that I had to take medication. I had it so bad it took me a year to start college. Signing up for every class is an accomplishment for me. I have such anxiety about any class in college. If I listening to myself and let my anxiety rule my life I would not be where I am today.
Take it one day at a time. I tried medication and that helped. But taking classes and passing them makes me realize that I really can do difficult things and that I will be fine. I have been waiting to outgrow my anxiety, but I am just letting go of it as I get older.
Good luck! Go get a massage! You deserve it
Q: when I was a young boy I was raped by a department store santa..ever since I have had anxiety about christmas!
as you know christmas is coming up and I am getting anxious just thinking about it!! what should I do? Every time I see a santa I freak out!!! help??
A:
Christmas is natural, Christmas is fun, Christmas is best when it’s one on one! a do do do
Q: Does anyone actually recover from anxiety?
I’ve suffered from Anxiety for most of my 20’s, going on 8 years now since my first anxiety attack. Now I am to a point where I worry about anything and everything, I wonder what the purpose of life is, I obsess about sex being bad, I feel guilty for looking at women and desiring them, I worry about getting old and how I will feel when I am older, I wonder what the purpose of life is, how I would feel if I had kids down the road and had a girl that grew up to become a women and she would have sex, I worry about anxiety and everything. I feel I’ve tried everything, I workout all the time, I eat right, I try to sleep 8 hours a day, medication I just can’t get over these fears and my mind never stops racing….what can I do that I haven’t tried yet? I am in my 30’s now and I don’t want to waiste my 30’s as I did my 20’s. Any advise?
A:
Push and push your GP for help. I am getting it now through cognative behavioural therapy after suffering to the point of almost losing my job and home. It is possible to get better but it requires work on your part to accept that many of your anxieties are created by your own thought processes and you need to re-learn them. Once you have been in an anxious state for a period of time your sub-concious mind learns that this is the norm and leaves you there all the time even when you have nothing to feel anxious about. When something trivial comes along you over-react wildly because you are already in a state of hightened anxiety and on it goes. Push for help for a counsellor through your GP it really does help but it is not a quick fix. Good Luck
Q: anxiety issues………….only serious answers please?
this is kind of two Q’s in one, but they ARE linked, right. i suffer from anxiety really badly, and the thoughts that go through my head are the usual ones associated with it, fears of dying and being poisoned and stuff, and i have a really bad fear of catching leptospirosis (human rat poisoning), and my anxiety symptoms seem to mimic leptospirosis, but the difference is, i don’t die, my first question is… how can i stop the anxiety and my second question is….. how long does leptospirosis usually take to kill a human. i would like to hear from sufferers of anxiety attacks and panic attacks if possible, mainly because only they will understand what i’m going through
A:
I think a lot of these people on this question dont suffer from anxiety becaiuse a lot of them want to tell you that meds are the answer. this is NOT the answer. Anxiety is a mental problem and is sometimes a diet problem. most of the time its mental. would you take medication to get rid of a memory??? how stupid does that sound??
what you need is CBT cognative behavior therepy. this is when you induce the panic and you ride it out without trying to do anything. you will notice that the attacks get shorter when you do this. another good method is to distrxct your mind. pick up a hobby or just start keeping a personal journal. this can be very thereputic and it helps to distract ytour mind from obsessive thoughts that trigger anxiety. try it out. the next time you have anxiety start typing something it can be anything. you will be surprised that once your start concentrating on the words that you are writing the anxiety will start to melt away. another thing you can do is when you have a panic attack (if you do have these because there is a difference) drink some sugar water. if this helps it is your blood that is the culprit. low blood sugar. changing your siet will do wonders anyway. see a doctor about this. if you smoke quit. if you drink…..keep it to 2-3 drinks a day. Alcohol is sugar based and too much sugar will increase anxiety.
work on your breathing. breath through your stomach not your ribs. pause between each breath on the inhale and exhale. this very important. take a deep breath and start counting on the exhale as fast but as clearly as you can. see how high you can get. if you are below 120 you need to work on your beathing. most are not aware that improper breathing is one of the main culprits of anxiety.
I hope this helps. i have suffered with anxiety for years but one of the bets advice i can give you is this…..worry is the cause of anxiety and it is what makes everything snowball. let go of your fear and anxiety will follow.
Questions?
email me at
jsalmons77@yahoo.com
Q: Could difficulty socializing be a sign of another problem?
I am a quiet person. When in a social situation I have a hard time keeping up conversation. I notice other people have no difficulty thinking of things to talk about when the conversation trails off. I know all about the “ask questions about them” and “current events” conversation starters, but I either feel like I will seem nosy or boring. I would much rather listen than talk. I feel bad when someone I just met asks a bunch of questions about me because I will usually come up with a short answer and leave it at that. I just don’t think I am that interesting. I will often think of a response to something and not say it aloud. I just don’t care for chit-chat. I also find that I fail to make eye contact with people. I will look at their face, but I have to consciously make an effort for eye contact. I have read about things like Asperger’s and such, but I am nothing like that. Is it just a mild social dysfunction? Is there something specific it could be? Social anxiety sounds interesting. I don’t recall really feeling anxious though, I can be completely at ease, just watching the scene and thinking. Self esteem probably does play into it. My parents were the opposite though. I always received so much praise… “Amber can do anything” “Amber is so talented” “Amber is so smart” I always felt like I couldn’t live up to any of it though. To keep from disappointing people, I would fail to try/do/finish things unless I was positive that it was perfect. In that aspect, self-esteem makes sense. I very much appreciate all the answers presented here. Everybody offered a slightly different perspective while still being similar to the other answers given. Each comment helped me in a uniqe way, and I know it will be a difficult task selecting the “best answer”. Thanks, you guys.
A:
It is not any type of dysfunction but moreover an introverted personality to a higher extreme. There is nothing wrong with that. Your strengths lie in your observatory and listening skills rather than in your speaking skills.
What you can always do when someone asks a question to you is you can answer it in a different way. For example, after someone asks you how your day was, you can answer back in something besides good, ok, and bad. Something that does not have to be corny, but has something that can leave the other person itching to answer back. It is not a matter of whether or not you are interesting (which, of course, you must be if you would think up of such a good question) but finding people with the same interests.
Since you thought up of such an elaborate question, perhaps you would be more suited in an environment that was more suited to psychological fostering. What I’ve done (since I used to be pretty introverted myself) is that I went to places like Coffee Shops where people perform poetry and things. You can meet some people who share similar interests. Not only that, but you can always go alone or with other people (whichever you would prefer).
Good luck.
And there is nothing wrong with being introverted.
Good Question
Q: I am going on anti-Anxiety meds, my kids know I have been struggling….?
because I have not been the most wonderful person to live with lately, I have been really hard on them. Should I explian it to them, and if yes- how? Or do I just let it go and hope that this helps??? (they are 7 & 5, and very bright)
A:
This is kinda one of those…six of one; half dozen of the other.
I don’t guess it really matters if you tell them or not. The meds will either work; and you will start feeling abit better,and theywill notice it, or you won’t be affected by the meds and they will notice that nothing has really changed.
My problem when I started on my meds was that my hubby would get mad whenI got upset about something, and his first response would be” Have you taken your meds? If I said no, then he would say, “well, then that is why you are acting this way!” and if I said yes, then his response would be, “Well, then they aren’t working!”
Nothing was ever his fault or the situations fault…only mine.
I was not allowed to get angry or upsaet or something (anything) that anyone else did that was stupid, irresponsible…..I was supposed to be in a zombie-fies state all the time…not reacting to any stress or problems.
Well, my doctor continually told him that the meds weren’t supposed to take away all myanger…they were supposed to keep me from going totally over the edge when I did get upset!! But, he never wanted to believe that, and so finally I quit worrying about it and always refused from then on to answer his “Have you….” questions.
You will notice that you will not notice a change in yourself with your meds (at least not of any significence), but rather it will be your family and those who are around you that will notice the change first.
My first two monthly appointments after I was on my meds…my doctor made me my appts. to come in, but told me that I had to bring either my spouse, or a freidn or family membver with me and he usually would ask me how the meds were doing, asnd I would say that I hadn’t really noticed much of ca change, and then he would turn to my family or whoover I had brought with me and ask them how I was doing, and they would normally say, “Doc, she’s so different! It’s like night and day! She is doing so much better!!” But, it took me alot longer to see that change…but those aorund me noticed it alot sooner.
Believe me, your children will definitely pick up on your mood changes way before you do!!!
So, the decision as to whether to tell them is one of your choice.
Onlyyou will know if they can fully comprehend what you are telling them, but they will let you know by their actions and possibly verbally, if they notice that there is a good change in you after you start on them. But, remember also, it takes about 4-6 weeks for most meds to get enough of the chemicals in your body and system to even start making a difference, so don’t be upset and quit taking it if you don’t notice an instant change. You didn’t get this way overnite and you won’t overcome it that way either.
Good luck!!!!
Q: I am going on Anxiety meds, my kids know I have been struggling….?
because I have not been the most wonderful person to live with lately, I have been really hard on them. Should I explian it to them, and if yes- how? Or do I just let it go and hope that this helps??? (they are 7 & 5, and very bright)
A:
It is important that you talk to your kids about what is happening. They already know it hasn`t been good, they need to know why and what you are doing about it. When parents struggle and kids are exposed to this, their security is threatened. You are in charge of their security so it is up to you to reinstate it. You don`t have to give them big long explanations, excuses etc just let them know that you have been sick(mood disorders are classified as an illness) but you have seen a physician and you are taking medicine to help.If you are seeing a therapist, let them know you talk to someone who helps. Remember you are modelling, so what do you want them to learn? Having trouble in life is normal, doing something about it is normal,talking about it is normal. Talk about behaviors, so that they know you should not have behaved certain ways so they can see you take responsibilty for this. Tell them what you will be doing to help yourself. Don`t ask for their help…kids are famous for taking responsibilty for their parents troubles and we all know it is not their job…let them be kids. Don`t over talk about it. Kids are simple. They want to understand so their world won`t be so scary, and they want to know that their mom is going to be ok, so their future won`t be so scary. Acknowledge your strengths…love your self and your kids…lighten up as much as you can. As Barbara Colorosso says don`t sweat the small stuff
Q: My wife rejects all sex-fun, claiming anxiety. All I wish to do is be nude with her, to get her used to me-aid
I’d simply like to take my clothes off and be nude in her presence, in order that she can become accustomed to me naked again, and thus not feel anxious about this. I’m not demanding penetrative sex or even oral. She has suffered very badly with anxiety, and I have supported her throughout - even to the extent of being celibate for 5 years. I am, however, getting to the end of my tether. Im 49, and the wife is 44. Can anyone help me out. Porn does not help, and, as I love my wife, seeking a mistress is not a possibility. I’ve suggested we go to Relate, to get her some counselling, but this, like all my other attempts to get some sort of response, is stonewalled.
A:
foghorn,
you are very admirable, you convictions to your wife are very much appluaded by alot of people, im sure you have a list of things in which you have tried, so even trying to suggest somthing would probably be met your already trying. you suggested coounseling but it wall stonewalled. i would then suggest you set the date for a counseling session let her know how much it means to you, and when its time to leave for the appoinment, go more then likely she wont go with you, but you still need to go. fog… your not the only one in your shoes at this point and its safe to say the counselors have heard of this before and can counsel with just you and share ways for you to coax her into coming with you or ways to help …. i wish you much luck
Q: Is teaching a good career to go into?
I am considering going to school to be a teacher, majoring in Early Childhood Education, but my big concern is whether I will find a job when I get out of college. I live in the upstate of South Carolina and I don’t want to work in the “ghetto”. So basically my question is that I am wondering if teaching is a good career to go into? Are there jobs available in good districts or are they all in places that people wouldn’t want to work? Another thing is early childhood education a good major or should I try to teach something else? As for everybody who is critcizing me for saying I don’t want to work in the “ghetto” I am not opposed to teaching students who need me at all… I just don’t want to work in a place where I will be fearful to come to work because somebody might bring a gun to school or something. I know that my best friend had to do a clinical at an elementary school and she was punched, kicked, cussed at, spit on, and personally, I don’t want to deal with that. So it’s not because I don’t want to teach low income children, because I am low income myself, I was raised in a trailer by a single mother who was on disability. I just want to know that I’m not going to be abused. Are all teacher’s abused at school? I know that I have anxiety attacks and can’t handle stuff like that so if all teacher’s are abused then I don’t want to go into that field of work.
A:
In my opinion Teaching is a very stress full job, especially in 2006, where the kids can do as they want and get away with it. James
Q: help me with paraphrasing please..?
can anyone help me to paraphrase this paragraph for me.. the first one is : a second major problem is maintaining astronauts mental health. Being confined for long periods of time in dark and hostile space undoubtely produces anxiety. Loneliness and boredom are other psychological concerns. the second one : Finally, how can astronauts ” let off steam ” when interpersonal conflicts develop? Even best friends can irritate each other when forced to spend weeks together in isolation. Space stations are small, cramped, busy workplaces, and there is little privacy. Also, space exploration is dangerous, which adds to the stress aboard a spaceship. thanks..and get the 10 points =)
A:
A major problem with astronauts staying mentally healthy is the long periods of darkness and confinement. The anxiety can become overwhelming with facing the unknowns of space. The inactivity and having nothing to keep them busy is also a concern.
Finally, the forced proximity can become very irritating. Even the closest, most compatible people can become irritated with each when they spend weeks together isolated from others. The smallness of the space and lack of privacy is also a big concern. The danger of the job they are doing only adds to their exasperation.
Q: I am confused about what do major in…?
I am a 20 yr. old married female and I am wanting to go back to school. The only problem is I don’t know what to major in. I am somewhat talented in art and english and I love to read. I have considered going to school to be a teacher or graphic design or maybe even English, but my problem is I don’t want to go to school for four or more years and not be able to find a job when I get out. There are other issues as well, like I take care of my disabled parents and I have anxiety attacks, so that’s something I have to take into consideration. Is there anybody out there who can give me some advice? Seems like everybody I know tells me something different….
A:
I dunno if this helps but I wasn’t sure what to major in either and my strengths are also in English and Art so I’m majoring in Multimedia I love it…….almost done it’s a little more tech. then a normal art degree or English but the job market for it is huge and I’m already getting job offers and I’m not even finished…..It’s like an digital art degree and you can also put your English skills to good use in a fun way also you can freelance at home which I do as well…………and it’s only a 2 year degree everyone I know who’s majoring in multimedia is loving it……not to many of us either
Q: Who suffers from PASS - Post Abortion Stress Syndrome - how long did it take for you to get it??
How long did you suffer and what did you do to get well. I’ve heard it can cause self abuse and abuse of others, depressions, anxiety, all kinds of weird unexplainable behavior. Is this right?
A:
I know that anyone that wants can call 1 800 848 5683 this is a free national pregnancy hot line they will hook you up with a Pregnancy Resource Center near you - all their services are free and confidential. The Center has counselors trained in treating PASS and some have even had abortions themselves. Please call if you think you are suffering. They can really help you.
Q: Who suffers from Post Abortion Stress Syndrome? If you have or had it what did you do for help?
PASS - Post Abortion Stress Syndrom is bad and can cause many kinds of self abuse an abuse of others, phobias, nightmares, anxiety, all kinds of weird things.
A:
look up Rachel’s Vineyard on the web - this would be helpful if you could manage it.
You are not alone.
Q: has any body ever heard of seredyn for anxiety?
i have heard it is good for panic attacks does anyone know about it before i try it.
A:
It’s one of natures answers.
A fast acting, long lasting medication for stress and anxiety. Quite well known
Q: My son turns into a clingy wreck when husband is around.?
My 16 month old son is going through some issues, he has chronic ear infections and is scheduled to have tubes put in plus he is cutting teeth and has a pretty good cold right now so I know he is ging through alot but when my husband comes home he will just start bawling and hang onto me for dear life, if I leave the room he bawls, if his dad tries to pick him up to give me a break he loses his mind and cries and kicks and tries to throw himself out of his arms, I know there is such thing as seperation anxiety but this is awful. And please no responses that maybe he’s afraid of him because something he did to him because its not like that, my husband has never so much as smacked his hand. But when I leave the house I guess he’s fine, he will play and play and laugh and run around crazy with his dad but if I am there he has a total fit if his dad even walks toward him. Is this a phase?
A:
Aren’t you the same person who posted about issues with your husband? This may be part of that problem. I would imagine your hubby is pretty stressed out working long hours and then coming home to that.
In any case — your son is YOUNG and I’ve seen that before. It’s a safety thing and kind of an “ownership” thing. He’s used to being with you and around you and looks to you for everything. Talk with your pediatrician. I urge you to go with your husband to the appointment.
Q: i have pins and needles and shortnes of breath doctors said it is due to anxiety and depression?
so what medecine is suitable for me doctor only give lithium carbonate but no effect why?
A:
Ya I had this sort of problem 5-6 months ago,u mean pins and needles on hands and face isn’t it? , but dont worry at all u dont have any kind of disease at all. Take homeopathy treatment it will work wonders for you. But continue the course until the panic attacks totallly disappear. They maytake 2-3 months or even earlier depending on your will power to become a better and a +ve attitude person. Good luck !
Q: How do you deal with a drastic job- routine change in your life?
I worked for 20 years at the same job-took the same 9 mile drive there, went to lunch and shopped at the same places. I decided to retire from there and start cleaning houses fulltime and it has only been a week but I have this horrible anxiety and panic since I am out of my routine. It isn’t like I had to do everything the same way everyday-I guess I knew I had to be somewhere on the dot 9-5 and now I have a more relaxed schedule. I feel lost, even though I am pretty busy-not packed with customers but enough to get me started. I thought I was going to have fun since my job got to be so miserable and before I quit I was planning things and just really excited about it. I can barely get in the car and drive anywhere with these panic attacks I am having. Is it all going to blow over when I get into THIS routine?
A:
You have taken a big step and should be proud of yourself for doing so. its only natural to feel anxious as you have stepped out of your comfort zone but if it was so comfortable then you wouldn’t have wanted to change.
you probably miss all the social interaction that you had as well as feeling a little daunted by the new challenge but this will ease over time. You will meet new people and form new bonds with people.
i think you should give yourself a pat on the back for doing something that a lot of people would want to do but don’t have the courage. stick at it!
Q: Are you on meds. for anxiety,depression,OCD…?
If so…how easy was it for you to get help, and open up.I’m 18. Do you think i will have to go through alot of therapy to get on med’s? I know drugs are the only thing that will keep me sane. 
Anyone can email me, be a friend.
A:
hunni read my e-mail, and u’ll be fine, ( be strong) love mary xo
Q: The link between anxiety and mental/physical health?
I know that prolonged exposure to anxiety can be the cause of mental illnessess such as depression and ‘Obsessive Compulsive Disorder’ (O.C.D.) and physical conditions such as stomach ulcers.
A:
Any stress can lower your immune system.
Q: Do you take or have taken Cymbalta?
I like it for the anxiety relief - but I find I need about a 2 hr nap each afternoon. Do you or have you taken it at night? Did you find it worked well taken at night? I currently take it in the morning.
A:
Yes. My Doctor told me to take it when I go to sleep at night. No need for a siesta!
Cymbalta also helped with anxiety AND with my almost constant inactivity. Now I can do everything I have to with joy.
Best wishes!!
Q: How to change back to your self?
How to change back to your self? I here it is. I am 21 now and Ive been trying to be someone also for last two years. What happened was I read this book about improving your dating.It teaches you in order to attract women you need to have certain personality.So I was always trying to be that person in the book,watching everything I say,how I talk,walk,my face expressions,what kind of jokes I make,how I behave evertying according to the book. While I did got more attention from the girls,but in the long run I started feeling bad to my stomach.I knew it just wasnt me I was always so fake. I think I started being very self concsious,and started having social anxiety and panic attacks because of that.Before I just did whatever I wanted and I felt great. Now Ive been someone also for so long I dont know who am I. I always think now is this the way should I behave,or is it something that I learned in the book.I always think how to act now in all situations,which give me great anxiety. How do I change back to being my self and without thinking about what am I doing all the time,if its right or now,is it me or not.Stop caring what people think about me. How do I erase all the programming from that book?
A:
Try looking at your thoughts. Either your old self, or your new one that you don’t like so much, exists in your thoughts. It’s like a file in your memory. You keep bringing it out by reopening the file. If you see that this problem exists only in thoughts, you can then see that, because thoughts have no substance, you can delete them, or let them go. They will no longer have a hold over you. Then you will not have to think about how to behave, for you will then be free to act any way the circumstance requires.
Q: What is the best herbal remedy to treat anxiety and depression?
A:
St. John’s Wort has been wonderful for me — it has worked, and the only side effect I have is my son (it overmetabolized my birth control pills). And after the initial shock, that was a gift!
First — you need to be sure that you are not clinically depressed, because that may need a different type of medication/therapy.
Second — if you are on blood thinners, birth control pills, or other types of medication that can be affected by it, you should consult your doctor before trying it. It also can make you more likely to get sunburn. By the way, my OB/GYN knew I was on St. John’s Wort — and I had been for over 2 years — but after I had my son in 1999 a bunch of articles started appearing about some medications being affected by it. It just wasn’t known then that it could happen.
Third — it takes several weeks (usually 4 to 6) to really begin to feel a difference.
The reason I started it is that I saw a show on 60 minutes about it. I have always been kind of moody, and I would overthink things. I read the book they talked about on the show, and tried to find out more about it from other areas, too. When I started it I was overwhelmed with work and life and instead of trying to wade my way through it, I was just vegging in front of the tv every night. Chores even weighed heavy on me, I just couldn’t seem to get anything done, and was constantly behind.
About 3-4 weeks into taking it, I suddenly realized that my kitchen was clean, my laundry was finished, and I didn’t dwell and lament over the fact that I “had soooo much to do” I just did it. For me it worked, and worked in a very noticable way. I stopped over thinking, and feeling anxious, and feeling overwhelmed. For others, they say nothing changed. I think it depends on the chemistry of the brain — I didn’t start being “good” to myself (eating better, exercising, etc.) until I started feeling better, so I can honestly say that the only thing that changed was that I was taking this herb, and doing things the way I usually did, until I started to have more energy and got more things done. The reason I wanted to go herbal is because I didn’t want to be dependent on a pharmacutical drug. In fact, I’ve read a couple of reports just in the last month that say that it is very difficult to get off of anti-depressants, and that was something that I was concerned about. I was off St. John’s Wort for over 2 years (I stopped them after I got pregnant and nursed for 2 years). I don’t take it regularly anymore, but when I do take it I usually take it for a month or two. Oh, it’s important to take the recommended dose of 900 milligrams (3 pills) a day.
Try to get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, eat healthy, that will help too.
Q: Does hypertension (high blood pressure) have anything to do with being “excessively tense”?
If not why is it called hypertension? Is there any causal relationship between stress and anxiety and hypertension?
A:
Ninety percent of hypertension is primary hypertension - that is there is no particular organic source of the high blood pressure. As blood pressure is variable by design (ready to fight or run from that saber toothed tiger at a moments notice) it can change based on the level of excitement you are experiencing. This is a temporary change as opposed to the consistently high readings associated with high blood pressure needing treatment.
Exercising is another example of when our blood pressure raises substantially while engaging in the activity, to level off after stopping.
Having said that there was an interesting study done that demonstrated a relationship with the number of hours a person worked per week and their associated blood pressure. The more hours worked the higher the blood pressure on average. It would therefore be hard to argue that day to day stressors in our daily lives - which release cathecolamines into our blood stream - do not play a role in hypertension. Vigorous cardiovascular exercise is a great antedote to that influence, by the way.
Good luck.
Q: What to do about stress?
My fiance (fixing to be ex if he dont stop his nonsence) has stressed me out to the fullest, He always targets my oldest son who is ADHD and is on medication and receives couceling, hell make sarcastic comments to him and just picks on hi in general, he babies my 6 year old who isint ADHD and isint on meds. My grandfather is ill and in the hospital, I may be loosing him, I walk around numb becaused Im so upset about it. Im to the point that I cant eat Ive dropped 10 lbs in two weeks from nerves and the dude wont give me space. As soon as he says something to my oldest son I can literaly feel like Im going into an anxiety attack and going to throw up. I cant take it anymore even whe the dude is around me I feel anxiety and when I bring it up he thinks Im lieing. he knows what Im going through with my grand dad but yet he still adds to everything. What can I do to relieve my stress and feel norml again?
A:
Ok, breathe.
Take a good look at what is happening. You can’t focus on what is happening with your grandfather, and you need to feel those feelings and have time to assimilate them. Your oldest is being verbally abused. His self-esteem is going in the pits and he already has problems he needs to cope with. You are doing constant damage control for your son due to your fiance’s treatment of him. Your little one lords his preferred place over the other one, and undeservedly so. You are not receiving the support you need in time of crisis.
If this man cannot ease your burden and be a source of comfort for you now then he never will. He will continue to divide your family and put you in a place where not only do your kids not have him to count on, but you will be too emotionally drained to deal with them too…..read, he is robbing them of their mother.
You need some support. Go to your best friend. Let her sympathize with your grief for your grandfather. Let her say and do the things that remind you that you are a wonderful friend and deserving of love and respect.
Somehow you are going to have to find a way to tell this man that it is over. Tell him thanks for when the times were good but it is not going to work. Ask if he can move in with a friend. You need space now. If he can’t leave take your kids and go stay with your girlfriend. You need the space and the recovery time.
Do not argue with him.. You don’t have what it takes right now….Just keep telling him you can’t address the relationship now and maybe after the grandfather recovers you can talk and focus on what you need to say. The end.
Then go about putting your life back together. Seek out family and friends and spend time with your kids. Let the morning be the dawn of a new day for you again. You have to put things right. Take your time and find the path when the crisis is over.
Q: what drug/herbs are good for people with borderline personality disorder?
symptoms such as anger depression anxiety paranoia
A:
If you mean unprescribed drugs, then none. It’s confusing enough having a personality disorder, although plenty of people try to self medicate and drug taking is almost always part of the problem. This includes alcohol, nicotine and cannabis. They are all powerful drugs that actually cause anger, depression, anxiety, paranoia and stress.
Exercise is very useful - don’t underestimate how good it can be and NLP (neurolinguistic programming) and counselling helped me enormously.
As for herbs chamomile, lemon balm and lavender can help aid sleep and promote relaxation if used sparingly. Whatever is suggested always consult a doctor or specialist first.
Q: Needle phobic!! Help!?
I’m 15 and I am extremely afraid of injections and shots/needles My doctor is not really aware of this yet since i switched doctors. Tomorrow, I have to get some kind of booster shot. This is going to be an issue already because I expierence anxiety attacks. My last shot a few years ago, i ran around the exam room and hid under the table screaming and crying until people had to hold me down. I want to avoid that situation if possible, but I know it’s impossible from screaming and crying and my heart racing and me going all fidgety. Also, I don’t think my doctor has any numbing medications to apply so I’m at a loss for solutions! Please help!!!
A:
try to tell yourself that freaking out will only make it worse, so just relax and get the shot, don’t watch while they do it. And relax the part of your body that it’s happening to (ex. leg, put your weight on the other leg and let the one getting the shot hang loose) this will prevent soreness then next day. Just think of if as, shots are not there to hurt use, they’re made to prevent and cure sickness. Just relax, you’ll be ok. And don’t embarrass yourself, that could be worse than freaking out over a shot, good luck
Q: I keep having anxiety attacks. What can I do to alleviate them?
Work is what stresses me out. The enormity of it. The lack of understanding among my peers….. Help!
A:
If you can’t eliminate the stressor (your job), then try various stress management techniques. The first is to make sure you exercise-it can be the best at reducing stress. Other things that will help are yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, and just getting out and doing something you really like. Medication should always be the last resort.
Q: Anti anxiety medication?
What side effects do they have? What do they alter in your brain chemistry? Does it CHANGE the way you are or your personality? Just a little afraid of taking this option for treatment if it means the meds changing me and making me into a perpetually NON-CHALANT person with no feelings.
A:
Anti-anxiety meds don’t change who you are or your personality in any real way. But when you can’t stop obsessively thinking about — and getting yourself all worked up over — something that happened 20 years ago. . . well, they can help you stop your mind from spinning out of control and caring WAY TOO MUCH about something you really don’t give a crap about. But they don’t change how you feel about your family or your dog or your favorite TV show. You still have the full range or normal healthy emotions — they just help keep you better within that range.
Q: I think I have anxiety attacks…HELP!?
I worry way too much for my own good. Is this normal? Or is it something that needs to be treated?
A:
worrying is not the same as a panic attack. A panic attack is a total, physical freak-out, where you get a thumping heart, sweats, dizziness, gasping breath, etc. Since it doesn’t gewt triggered by anything threatening, the fear is really frightening because It Makes No Sense. Then, they can happen more, ironically because you are afraid of the panic attack.
Unless you are having true attacks, don’t worry. Learn to relax more. Most people are tense and stressed out. Take a class in deep breathing or something! I drink chamomile tea instead of coffee (caffeine - and nicotine too - just gets people even more tense)…
Drugs are overrated and not appropriate for everyone.
Q: Stress induced contractions?
Can extreme emotional stress and anxiety induce early contractions?
A:
yes it can….i had stress induced contractions and i went into false labor 2 times and actually into labor 1 but they stopped it and made me come into the hospital for a stress test on the baby everyday. when the baby moves there heart rate is suppose to go up and my babys heart rate was going down thats when they knew sumthin was definetly wrong.
Q: anyone started weaning off paxil and wanting to try something different to help with anxiety and depression?
Paxil as a known fact causes the dreaded weight gain but helps anxiety-does anything else after weaning off paxil help like cymbalta with anxiety and depression like paxil without weight gain?
A:
Hi…as you may know you are taking an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). You may want to ask a doctor to prescribe you a different medicine in this category like Prozac. Cymbalta is also not a bad option but it works a little differently affecting a different neurotransmitter caller Norepinephrine. Good luck
Q: getting a cavity?
today in an hour i am going to get a cavity filled…i have had them done before and something about the novicane and my mouth being numb really freaks me out…i start to get all sweaty and i almost feel like i cant breath and my heart starts to race and i get dizzy..i know that nothing can happen and the numbness is just an effect but i dont know what it is that makes me so upset…i have been stressing all day about this and now i am rly starting to get nervous..is there any suggestions on how to make myself calm so i dont hyperventalate again..im afraid that im gonna pass out or something…please help me so i can not get as nervous..what should i do..also..im a 14 year old girl..and i cant not go cause i’ve already put this off for awhile now because i’ve been so nervous but i have to go today..thanks i dont think it was a reaction because this was also as soon as he was going to start the novicane and before and also i’ve had cavitys filled like when i was younger and they didnt bother me …its just anxiety or a phobia or something but i just need suggestions to calm myself…but thanks i couldnt do it…i thought i could but right when i sat down in the chair i freaked out…i couldnt do it. i dont know what it is but now i need to go back again..
A:
I’m so sorry you’re so frightened calm down and take a deep breath. Usually your imagination makes things 10 times worse than what they really are. Actually what you’re doing right now is the best thing to do to relieve stress.Talking to someone or getting it off your chest can help also just keeping yourself occupied like you’re doing is great. Just remember the Dentist isn’t going to make it any worse than he has to and if you talk to him about your fears first maybe he can help you to relax Good Luck
Q: do you know if lorazepam is good for anxiety?and what are the side effects?
I have tried it once and it worked well for anxiety,but I don’t know if its good.
A:
You need to be under a doctor’s care if using this drug and should only use it short-term since it is addicting.
GENERIC NAME: lorazepam
BRAND NAME: Ativan
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Lorazepam is an antianxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves in the brain use to send messages to one another. GABA inhibits activity in many of the nerves of the brain, and it is thought that this excessive activity is what causes anxiety or other psychological disorders. Because lorazepam is removed from the blood more rapidly than many other benzodiazepines, there is less chance that lorazepam concentrations in blood will reach high levels and become toxic. Lorazepam has fewer interactions with other medications than most of the other benzodiazepines.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets (white): 0.5mg and 1mg, 2mg
STORAGE: Tablets should be kept at room temperature.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Lorazepam is used for the management of anxiety disorders, the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depression. The effectiveness of lorazepam, or other benzodiazepines , have not been adequately studied for treatment beyond 4 months. Lorazepam also has been shown to be effective for improving sleep in people with insomnia, for panic attacks, and as an adjunct (i.e., when added to other medications) to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy.
DOSING: The dose of lorazepam is tailored to the patient’s needs. Scheduled doses, given twice or three times daily, are sometimes used for persons with continuous anxiety or at bedtime for insomnia. Alternatively, lorazepam may be prescribed on as “as needed” basis, the physician instructing the patient to take lorazepam when he/she feels anxious.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Lorazepam and all benzodiazepines, interact with other medications and drugs that slow the brain’s processes such as alcohol, barbiturates, and narcotics. There have been cases of marked sedation when lorazepam was given to patients taking the tranquilizer loxapine (Loxitane); it is unclear if there is a drug interaction at all, but concern is warranted.
PREGNANCY: Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines have been associated with fetal damage, including congenital malformations, when taken by pregnant women in their first trimester. Lorazepam is best avoided if at all possible in the first trimester and probably throughout pregnancy.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if lorazepam is secreted in breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most commonly noted side effects associated with lorazepam are sedation (which is reported in approximately 1 in 6 people), dizziness (1 in 15), weakness, and unsteadiness. Other side effects include a feeling of depression, loss of orientation, headache, and sleep disturbance.
Like all benzodiazepines, lorazepam can cause physical dependence. Suddenly stopping therapy after a few months of daily therapy may be associated with a feeling of loss of self-worth, agitation, and insomnia. If lorazepam is taken continuously longer than a few months, stopping therapy suddenly may produce seizures, tremors, muscle cramping, vomiting, and/or sweating.