Where do I go for help?

Julie 00 · 03-31-2006, 02:42 AM

Hi,
For as long as I can remember I feel I'v been struggling with anxiety problems. I'm usually very shy and really lack confidence in everything that I do. I'm always paranoid that I will do something that will lead people into thinking bad things about me. There are many things that I want to do but I don't because of this anxiety problem. I'm considering quitting my job because of this and I feel like I'm not in control of my own life. This makes me really sad and I'm tired of living like this. I need to do something about it but I'm not sure where to start looking for help. Do I see a Dr? a Phsycologist? Should I consider taking meds? Counseling? Does anyone else have this problem, what did you do about it?

Thanks

03-31-2006, 02:48 AM

Hi, I'm not sure about Canada but in Australia you would go to your doctor & get a referral to a psychologist/counsellor. You doctor may also prescribe medication. Its entirely your choice.
Personally I had anxiety induced depression so my doctor prescribed Lexapro 20mg. But now that Im ttc I'm not on any AD's. Just the counselling.
In my opinion its the counselling or psychotherapy that helps the best.
So sorry you are going through this, definitely there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Also its very important that you don't make major life decisions i.e. quitting a job when you are suffering from anxiety and/or depression.

sleepydumpling · 03-31-2006, 02:50 PM

I would start with your regular doctor Julie. And if they don't listen or make you feel better - then get a second opinion. We PAY doctors to make us better - not pay for them to make us feel inadequate or not listen to us.

It took me a few goes but I finally found a good GP, and she has helped me SO much with my depression.

barneyb · 03-31-2006, 07:26 PM

I have a panic disorder and it really messed up my life before I took control. The best place to start is your regular dr., or if you don't have one, your girlie dr. can be as helpful. As SleepyDumpling said, you don't always get one who is helpful on the first try -- I know I didn't. I now have a great GP who has helped me deal with my panic.

I'm only on meds, no therapy, and doing well. I'm not opposed to therapy -- it was a huge help for my mother and sister (our panic is at least partially genetic) -- I just haven't gone for this. I've been through therapy in the past and rely on the things I learned then.

And if you choose to go with meds, keep in mind that it can take time to find the right one. I did okay on Zoloft, but was sleepy all the time; Lexapro made me feel more anxious and sooooo sick all the time. Effexor XR has been the best for me, but I know of people who have trouble with it. Patience is hard to have when you just want to feel normal again, but try to hang in there either way.

Good luck, Sweetie. A lot of us have been where you are and we're here for you.

sleepydumpling · 04-01-2006, 04:38 AM

Meds are very person specific aren't they? What works for one person is great, but then it can make the next person's life hell! I'm lucky that Lexapro has been working for me so far without any of the nasty side effects other people have complained about.