SSRI's and Panic

[freespiritgirl]

Hi there,

I understand that SSRI's keep levels of Serotonin raised in the brain which improves calmness and mood. I've read that researchers are not entirely sure how they specifically alleviate symptoms of anxiety and panic. I'm wondering if based on their experience, someone can tell me if their SSRI has helped improved their physical symptoms over time? My SSRI helps me to be more calm and positive, however I still have physical symptoms of panic and anxiety such as tingling hands and tight chest occasionally. Any feedback is appreciated :-)

[live42morrow]

Physical aspects of anxiety or panics may still be present but the SSRI do help to give perspective to issues and while taking a deep breath and slowly thinking about the reality of fears and where they come from, ( not knowing) the outcome, we must step out with faith knowing we can go forward giving our best , not worrying about the outcome , but keeping positive attitude.I have found some are past habits formed in situations, maybe stop and analyze what is causing this the situation can we change our perspective or avoid the situation , or is it diet related , caffeine,supplements etc, or possible the meds do they need adjusting.

[Paxiled]

Just to clarify, ssris don't increase serotonin.  They alter the way the brain naturally uses serotonin.  In the brain without an ssri the body breaks down used serotonin with an enzyme and then makes more.  With an ssri serotonin is directed to targeted receptor sites, which differ depending on the medication, and breakdown is prevented so the serotonin washes around longer in the targeted sites.  Other sites, in turn, shut off because the brain doesn't see them as necessary anymore.  You have the same amount of serotonin, it's just hanging around longer in the targeted receptors.  Because serotonin is a mood stabilizer in the brain we feel calmer and less depressed when we metabolize the drug properly, it works and the side effects don't overwhelm us.  But these drugs just mitigate our symptoms, they don't do anything about the causes of our depression or anxiety as we don't yet know what those causes are physiologically, and they seldom will completely rid us of all of our symptoms.

[birdie0907]

Here is my story since you asked. It takes more than just a med - attitude adjustments and mental training are needed. http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/44456/12--Experiencing-each-second-of-each-minute-only--and-not-looking-ahead

[freespiritgirl]

Thanks! :)

[anxiety860]

Tons of physical symptoms but I believe they were all caused by my anxiety/stress. The Prozac helped reduce my anxiety/stress therefor reduced the physical symptoms.

[freespiritgirl]

Did you have any physical symptoms and did Prozac help those?

[anxiety860]

Ssri. (Prozac) has helped me a lot, but I do more than just take Prozac. I try to keep busy. Positive thinking. Stay away from things that I know trigger my anxiety. I used to go to therapy but I can't now. I'd suggest trying coping methods. Positive thinking. Staying busy. Etc. along with whatever ssri you are taking. Diet, workout, hobby. Etc.