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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by ednababish on February 22, 2004, at 18:30:17
In reply to lex and confidence, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:05:45
Lexy-I always had a big shadowy thing lurking behind me, too, only I mistakenly thought it was my unfinished dissertation. I used to say that without it done, it would follow me around lurking in corners and I would never get free of it, that it was like an episode of the X-Files (and not one of the funny ones either). Sometimes as we get older, and especially in a graduate school situation, our confidence wanes. Trust me, I know. I hope your still considering increasing your dosage, and I would suggest that you write out the circumstances of your developling depression.
Thinking of you,
Edna Babish
Posted by ednababish on February 22, 2004, at 18:35:36
In reply to Re: New to the board and to Lexapro » Bubbasmom, posted by tmhwrite on February 22, 2004, at 11:01:43
Hey Bubbasmom,
Just admitting to yourself that something needs to change says how brave you are. I went through three depressive episodes and was smack in the middle of a fourth when I said I'm sick of always feeling this way. I still can't say I have a depressive personality with feeling horrible. I still don't completely believe it. But I do know that I can write, drive a car, love my husband and myself when I take lexapro.
So I applaud you,
Edna Babish
Posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:48:43
In reply to Re: lex and confidence, posted by ednababish on February 22, 2004, at 18:30:17
Uhhhh,
Anyone spotted between periods on lexapro? I know this may be too much info but I do not know who else to ask, I have had brownish/pinkish discharge for a week now, I thought it was the old period coming on but no thus far. Anybody feel me?
Lexy
Posted by mrs c on February 22, 2004, at 21:07:16
In reply to Re: lex and a female question, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:48:43
Sorry Lexy, I have had this happen many times in my life but not since taking Lex. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 22, 2004, at 21:21:11
In reply to Re: New to the board and to Lexapro -- Bubbasmom, posted by BobYuma on February 22, 2004, at 10:11:09
Hi Bubbasmom, Welcome to the board! I have been on lexapro for over 4 months now. It took about five weeks to feel improvement and nine weeks to feel happy again. That's just my experience. But coming here every night after putting the kids to bed got me through and still does. I have never taken any kind of medication long term before. At first the only people who knew that I was on an SSRI was my husband, my doc and the people here. I was worried about what others would think. I got up the courage to tell some of my close friends and realized that it's okay to need help. I was someone who tried to be everything to everyone. I gave the impression that I had this perfect life but inside I was a basket case. Constantly insecure, worried, anxious, and kind of miserable to live with. It was very hard for me to admit to friends that I actually wasn't perfect! Once I did I found a new strength and bond with my friends. I still have not had the courage to tell my family and probably never will. They look at mental illness as something that can be controlled. Something I know now, takes alot more than control! I'm learning everyday to overcome my issues. Thanks greatly in part to the wonderful and supportive people that come to this board. I wish you luck in this journey. You will be forever changed by it and you will be glad you took the first step. I promise. Mrs. C.
Posted by Journeyman on February 22, 2004, at 21:21:32
In reply to New to the board and to Lexapro, posted by Bubbasmom on February 21, 2004, at 0:21:13
Hi, and welcome. Feeling like a failure because you've chosen to use medication is not at all uncommon. There are many of us who post on this site who've had to make the necessary mental adjustment to allow that to be all right, and perhaps even a good thing. Accepting things as they are is the first step in working with the challenges we face. The meds., if they work for you, will help you get back to a place where you perhaps will be able to cope on your own.
As for being accepted as a contributor, that's already done. All who come are accepted.
The results ARE immediate; see how many people you've already connected with!
Here's to the beauty of acceptance and the strength of hope.
Journeyman
Posted by mrs c on February 22, 2004, at 21:24:26
In reply to Re: New to the board and to Lexapro, posted by BobYuma on February 22, 2004, at 10:00:06
Hi Hans, Welcome to the board. Congratulations on feeling better so soon. That's wonderful and nothing to feel guilty about. Let us know about your progress. Mrs. C
Posted by Journeyman on February 22, 2004, at 21:25:46
In reply to Re: Did remember to say I love you? » mrs c, posted by Jayslace on February 20, 2004, at 9:35:07
Ruthie,
How are you? Just wanted to check in.
Journeyman
Posted by Journeyman on February 22, 2004, at 21:33:45
In reply to Re: Lexapro and Thyroid Problems, posted by Mariposa on February 13, 2004, at 11:04:00
Hi,
How are you feeling? Any news on the thyroid? There are a lot of us thinking about you, wanting to know how you're doing.
Journeyman
Posted by lepus on February 22, 2004, at 21:53:56
In reply to Re: lex and a female question, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:48:43
> Uhhhh,
> Anyone spotted between periods on lexapro? I know this may be too much info but I do not know who else to ask, I have had brownish/pinkish discharge for a week now, I thought it was the old period coming on but no thus far. Anybody feel me?
> LexyI feel ya. I spotted last month (first month on Lex) and this month I am not sure Aunt Flo is coming or if she is she is really late! Not sure what to do...
Posted by Simus on February 23, 2004, at 1:37:42
In reply to Re: lex and a female question, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:48:43
> Uhhhh,
> Anyone spotted between periods on lexapro? I know this may be too much info but I do not know who else to ask, I have had brownish/pinkish discharge for a week now, I thought it was the old period coming on but no thus far. Anybody feel me?
> LexyYeah, most annoying SE for me. Spot for 3 1/2 weeks a month - no real period. I have been on Lex for three months now and this hasn't gone away.
Posted by Jayslace on February 23, 2004, at 8:12:55
In reply to Jayslace, posted by Journeyman on February 22, 2004, at 21:25:46
Journeyman,
Thank you so much for asking. I am doing much better! Taking things one day at a time, but truly, better. No crying, and even have enjoyed some laughs.My sister made a drive 3 hours down to see me, and then my brother came over and believe it not, it's been a year and a half since the 3 of us have been together like this! I've seen my brother and sister, but my brother and sister haven't seen each other. We had such a nice time. We then got on my computer, with my webcam, called our Mom and Dad and had them get on their computer and webcam. It was like a dream!! Our family together, though we are in Ohio and they are in Florida, it was great! We then used the speakers. LOL Memories galore!
We had a big dinner (My husband made the roast.. yummy too) and with my house full of people, I was in my glory! The best medicine ever!
But even last week, I did good too. I went grocery shopping and saved $129.00 with my coupons. That made it a 45% savings. (Yes, I am a coupon queen. LOL ) But the good thing about it,besides the savings, is, I was able to concentrate enough to shop, save, and handle all the crowd. I saw a few people I knew, and was able to smile and hold a conversation without my speech loosing to many words like I usually do.
I really hope that others are going to have good days like I do. Lex does work.
Health and friendship,
Ruthie
Posted by ednababish on February 23, 2004, at 8:35:10
In reply to Re: lex and a female question » sexylexy, posted by Simus on February 23, 2004, at 1:37:42
Lexy-did you say your depression was birth control pill related? Certain birth control pills, and even the adjustment after stopping birth control pills has resulted in lots of spotting for me.
Edna Babish
Posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 10:13:41
In reply to Re: Feeling Flat on Lexapro, posted by Samm on February 20, 2004, at 10:22:10
>How long have you been on lex and what dosage? I have been on 10mgs for little over a month and am feeling only a little improvement. In fact anxiety has seen to increase sometimes, especially in the early morning. Some people have said that it can take up to 6 to 9 weeks.
linnie
In response to feeling "flat", I went to see my doctor this week and he said the main thing he is trying to avoid is giving me a dosage of Lex that will make me feel no emotion at all or "flat". (Just to remind you, I'm the new member of the "Lex club" and taking it for my anxiety and panic attacks). Anyway, he told me that too much "Lex" can often do it. Just something to keep observing I guess.
>
> I haven't hit the magic numbers yet of when the Lex will start taking full effect, but I have a question for everyone...are headaches a common side effect? I've been having SO MANY headaches lately. I really like what I've heard about the Lex so far, so I don't want to stop taking it. Has anybody else had this problem and does it go away?
> Thanks!
> Sam
Posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 11:27:32
In reply to Re: to all novice lex-er, posted by Samm on February 20, 2004, at 10:34:22
Need Help
I am going on week 5 of 10mgs of lexapro. I think I am feeling better but sometimes I am not sure. I feel a little more unsure of myself and lost at times but I want to give this a chance. Some people say that it can take from 6 to 9 weeks to work and I hope that they are right. I am enjoying these posts and find them encouraging and supportive. Thanks to all who are part of this. Another question I have is how can you get a conversation going with someone on these boards?
linnie
Posted by TexCuz on February 23, 2004, at 11:56:02
In reply to Re: Feeling Flat on Lexapro, posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 10:13:41
> >How long have you been on lex and what dosage? I have been on 10mgs for little over a month and am feeling only a little improvement. In fact anxiety has seen to increase sometimes, especially in the early morning. Some people have said that it can take up to 6 to 9 weeks.
> linnie
>
>
> In response to feeling "flat", I went to see my doctor this week and he said the main thing he is trying to avoid is giving me a dosage of Lex that will make me feel no emotion at all or "flat". (Just to remind you, I'm the new member of the "Lex club" and taking it for my anxiety and panic attacks). Anyway, he told me that too much "Lex" can often do it. Just something to keep observing I guess.
> >
> > I haven't hit the magic numbers yet of when the Lex will start taking full effect, but I have a question for everyone...are headaches a common side effect? I've been having SO MANY headaches lately. I really like what I've heard about the Lex so far, so I don't want to stop taking it. Has anybody else had this problem and does it go away?
> > Thanks!
> > Sam
>
>All these messages about Lexapro - ye Gods! I didn't like Zoloft, Celexa, Effexor and then Lexapro. My doc said "STOP taking the Lexapro right now" and started me on Carbatrol for BiPolar Disorder/Mild -to-Moderate symptoms. This is after 3 years of treatment with SSRI's. I am also on Klonopin and Neurontin which are ALL anti-seizure drugs. I am a MESS. Withdrawal from SSRI's? Side effects of Carbatrol? I'm anxious, crying, dizzy, unsteady, horrible dreams, etc. I'm 6 days into Lexapro withdrawal...but how much longer? ALL I want is to feel NORMAL....not happy, or joyous, just NORMAL!!
Posted by KathrynLex on February 23, 2004, at 14:13:37
In reply to Mariposa, posted by Journeyman on February 22, 2004, at 21:33:45
Richard,
I just have to ask...much of what you write is very centered and seems to come from a very calm, clear mind. What's your secret?
K.
Posted by BobYuma on February 23, 2004, at 14:29:33
In reply to Re: Feeling Flat on Lexapro, posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 10:13:41
> > > ... I have a question for everyone ... are headaches a common side effect? I've been having SO MANY headaches lately. I really like what I've heard about the Lex so far, so I don't want to stop taking it. Has anybody else had this problem and does it go away? Thanks! Sam
-----------------------------------
Hi, Sam.
Unfortunately, the headaches are a nuisance that most of us had to put up with at least for a while after starting Lexapro. They will finally go away, meanwhile, I would be prepared to take the pain killer of your choice.
I always like to hear other's experiences and compare them to my own. So, my question is, which part of your head usually hurts the worse - or does it just hurt "all over"?
Take care, and please keep us up to date on your progress.
BobYuma
Posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 15:53:43
In reply to lex and confidence, posted by sexylexy on February 22, 2004, at 18:04:58
>I know what you mean about the lack of confidence. I am hjoping to feel better too. Been on lex for 4 weeks. I would describe it as a crisis of confidence. I never had that problem before and it is maddening.
linnie
Hey Ya'll
> Just wanted to write and say hello. I went out of town to for the weekend to visit my friends. It was a nice weekend, I was pretty happy but am just not back to "me" again.
> However, from what I have heard it takes about 6 months to really feel "back". For me its really a lack of confidence. I used to be really secure, happy and confident. Now I just kinda feel like there is a shadow lurking around waiting to pounce and make me depressed. I am just ready to get some inner light and confidence back. Any one feel the same, anyone have any ideas? I would love to hear. Hope everyone else had a great weekend.
> Lexy
Posted by KathrynLex on February 23, 2004, at 16:44:02
In reply to Re: lex and confidence, posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 15:53:43
Hi Lexy,
It's good to hear you had a nice weekend. While I know you hate the idea of increasing your medication, it sounds like you could really benefit from upping your dose. Before going from 10 mg to 15 mg I felt a shadow following me around too, but since taking 15 mg the shadow is gone and hasn't dared to come back.
Remember that 15-20 mg is still a fairly low dose, there are lots of people who take that amount of lexapro.
I can understand why you're uncomfortable with raising your dose. I felt the same way. But it really has been worth it to increase. Staying anxious and depressed is far worse than taking more Lexapro.
Yesterday I was looking back at the last six months of my life. It seems like an entirely different person was living my life, because I'm not that anxious/depressed girl anymore. For the first time in a year I can look in a mirror and like what I see.
Lexy, that shadow is preventing you from getting well. I hope I don't sound like a drug pusher, I just know that increasing has been a wonderful decision for me and has helped me to get well. Taking just a bit more lex can get rid of your "shadow." I would love to see you get well.
K.
Posted by sexylexy on February 23, 2004, at 17:18:13
In reply to Re: lex and confidence, posted by KathrynLex on February 23, 2004, at 16:44:02
K
What a sweet note. So glad to see you are doing better and you can see yourself again.
I made an appointment with my p. doc and really hope to increase, I just do not want to do it till I talk to her. Unfortunatley, I cannot see her until march 18th yuck. Thanks for the inspiration. I totally agree with you that taking more lex is much much better than not feeling happy. Thanks again,
Lexy
Posted by Bubbasmom on February 23, 2004, at 17:25:41
In reply to Re: lex and confidence » KathrynLex, posted by sexylexy on February 23, 2004, at 17:18:13
Hi everyone;
Just wanted to say thanks for all of the supportive messages. I am starting to feel like this might be working... still anxious a little when it comes to certain things but not so "tight inside" most of the time. I have had a couple of headaches but nothing that advil didn't make go away. I've been kind of thirsty and kind of sleepy about three hours after I've taken it. Anyone had this happen? Tomorrow is a big day - back to work - the major cause of my stress lately. Hopefully I'll have a good day. Wish me luck! And thanks again to all who wrote!
Michelle
Posted by mystic on February 23, 2004, at 18:49:44
In reply to Day 4, posted by Bubbasmom on February 23, 2004, at 17:25:41
Hello this is almost my 3rd week on Lexapro...Week one I was on 5mgs and that was tough I had gone right off Paxil 10mgs for 5 years to Lexapro...After about 5 days my Dr. changed me to 10mgs and this is the 2nd week on 10mgs..I'm feeling much better depressed wise but still anxious and scared...Is it anyones experience that it takes longer for the anxiety...How about the weight gain..is there any..it has been great reading all the postings havent been able to get hooked up for 3rd week...Thanks everyone...take care
Posted by mrs c on February 23, 2004, at 19:12:28
In reply to Re: to all novice lex-er, posted by linnie on February 23, 2004, at 11:27:32
Hi Linnie, five weeks has been an important number for many of us on this board. Many of us felt like we were backsliding at around five weeks. Your feelings are normal and will improve as you progress. It was about nine weeks for me to feel the full benefits with Lex. Keep the faith. Mrs. C
Posted by mrs c on February 23, 2004, at 19:14:53
In reply to Re: Feeling Flat on Lexapro -- Sam, posted by BobYuma on February 23, 2004, at 14:29:33
Bob, when you say "take the pain killer of your choice" I wonder if you mean something stronger than Tylenol or Advil. I will be having dental surgery in a few weeks and was wondering how codeine or even something stronger will mix with the Lexapro. Does anyone have any experience with this. Thanks. Mrs. C
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