Posted by SLS on September 26, 2006, at 8:18:56
In reply to do I need something for anxiety?, posted by Lindenblüte on September 25, 2006, at 22:47:46
> short version:
> Is there a short term med for anxiety that is non-sedating, and can be taken as needed- that won't be depressive or emotion-blunting?For the intermittent use you are indicating, Xanax or Ativan probably make the most sense. Benzodiazepines can be enormously effective and safe tools if you look at them as such. If you respect them, they can be very helpful. Personally, I have not found either of these drugs to be depressive, sedating, or emotionally blunting. They are calming. I think, in a way, this is emotionally diffusing. Xanax is probably more so than Ativan. I used Ativan at night for sleep. However, during the day, it was anxiolytic. Xanax is probably better for panic disorder or social phobia. I prefer Ativan because I felt less intoxicated and more clear-headed. Everyone is different, though.
> I explained to him that I was having uncontrollable outbursts of really strong emotions, like rage, and tears, and inappropriate laughter, etc, and that I was spending hours at home, shaking, and having suicidal thoughts for the first time in a long time
For stuff like this, I think Xanax would be better. It is more potent as an anxiolytic and has antidepressant properties.
By the way, is there any history of mental illness in your family? Bipolar disorder?
I agree with Alexandra that you should do as much as you can to reduce your levels of anxiety through techniques of the mind since it is activity of the mind that is triggering the anxiety episodes in the first place. If you reduce the "anxious pressure" that you are placing on the brain, you might be able to reduce the biological force that drives these episodes. Perhaps you can ask some questions over on the Psychology board for suggestions on how to deal with the anxiety as memories, thoughts, and emotions emerge as a result of your psychotherapy.
What's going on with the Seroquel and the Provigil?
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:689265
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060919/msgs/689329.html