Went to the Dr today and this is what he gave me. I have not been on any meds before and I am scared to start this one but I am not functioning well at all. I get no sleep, I cannot focus, I have headaches and panic attacks about 3-5 times a day. (These are only some of the things that I deal with each day as far as symptoms). I have to do something to try to maintain function throughout each day. I am going to give it a shot. My Dr has ordered thyroid tests as well. This is a whole new aspect to my condition. I wouldn't have even considered it if I didn't feel so out of control. I am supposed to feel relieved about this med right? Not more anxious. Anyway. Just thought that I would ask. ~ Flutterby

Thanks dena, I did look it up after seeing your reply. All of the information that I can get is helpful. ~Flutterby

flutterby,
I too am terrified of the drug thing. Have tried a couple but they had too many side affects for me. I have been drug sensitive since I was a kid, not just anxiety or antidepressants - antibiotics, cold meds. etc. I noticed on Andrews location thread that you are from IOWA!! Wow, me too! Where at? If you feel like telling me. Check my post on Andrews thread on page 3...you'll get a chuckle out of it I'm sure. Hang in there...didn't mean to sound negative about you starting the meds, they help and work for so many. I got really depressed about NOT being able to take them. I'm trying the vitamin route now. Doing a lot of reading and being very cautious....it's my nature. LOL
Would love to chat with you sometime. Chins up! Mick

Mick40,
Things are going pretty good with the med thing so far but I am not on the full dose yet. I have two more days before I get there. The whole working you way up to the full dose makes me nervous but this drug is not supposed to be habit forming. I have had better sleep the past two days and have been able to live more in the moment. Less negative thinking. I think this results from the program, therapy and possibly the drug. I know that I am doing everything in my power to overcome anxiety and depression. I have never been so focused on anything before but I have had this condition since I was about 9 years old and the past 4 months my symptoms were getting out of control. I could no longer hide them even from myself.

I did read your post on "where from" and it was very funny. I have never heard either one of those sayings before. I am right around the Cedar Rapids area. How about you? I would love to hear from you sometime too. Feel free to e-mail me anytime. The e-mail link that is here now is my work. I will be setting up my own e-mail at home very soon though. Hope that you have a great weekend and thanks for your reply! ~Flutterby

Hey BUTTERFLY,
Glad to hear the med thing is helping. Wish I could take something. I can handle and do take an occasional xanax. They make me sleepy tho' so I have to be careful. Is this med an antidepressant or an anti-anxiety drug?? You sound very determined and focused!! Way to go!! STAYING focused is MY BIGGEST problem. Glad to hear you are sleeping better, probably a combination of everything. Sleep really does make a big difference. Keep up the good work, and don't forget to praise yourself!! By the way, I am from Waterloo, so we are just a skip and a hop from one another!! That's pretty cool. I was so surprised to see someone on here from IOWA!! Maybe we can meet up someday!! My girls are 10 and 11...how old are yours? The 11 year old will be 12 this month....if I let her live that long!! LOL The 10 year old will be 11 in July. This preteen thing makes me crazy!!

I better get something done...will e-mail you soon. Take care Mick

Mick40,
My girls are 7 and 8. I am trying to stay focused and determined. Each time I get feedback from someone it helps me stay focused and not give up. Thanks...we will have to get in contact sometime. ~Flutterby