Suffering

[badshadow]

I have had a problem with anxiety most of my life.  I also have a bad Sleep Disorder.  I take 150mg of Trazodone, and 10mg of Valium at night, I've been on that for years.

These past few weeks my anxiety level is gotten very bad.  The past couple of nights I haven't been able to sleep without taking another medication that has been prescribed for me "Ambien."

I've taken it two nights in a row and I'm afraid to take it again because I don't want to be "Dependent" on it, but I'm so afraid of not being able to sleep.

I've tried some Herbal Remedies, B12, L-Theanine, Calcium and Magnesium, but it's not helping.

I don't want to go on any more Psych Meds than I'm on now, but I need to be able to get some sleep at night.

Any Suggestions?

Thank you.

[badshadow]

I don't understand what you meant by the "D" word.

I have found that if I take some Dramamine it helps for my Anxiety.  Is there anything I should be concerned about taking the Dramamine for this.

I'd rather take Dramamine than Valium.

[badshadow]

Hi, thanks for the support.  I'm sorry, but I don't know what the "D" word refers to.  I try to function as best I can, get out and get some exercise, do what needs to be done around the house.

It hasn't been this bad since my first breakdown, when they started me on the Medication.

Sillygirl, you said Ambien did not help with your Sleep Disorder, did you find something that did, or do you just deal with it as best you can.

[RubyWitch]

Hey Silly............thanks for what reminder?
I know what you mean about forgetting names! I've been known to speed down grocery store aisles when I spot someone I know I know but can't think of their name. Then I have to creep around like a stupid Ninja shopper to avoid them. Like I don't have enough problems already!

Your advice, as usual, was spot on!
Greenie

[29sillygirl]

Thanks for the reminder, G.  I need to start writing down complimentary med suggestions.   Always forget names when at store:).

[29sillygirl]

Hi,
Sorry you are having sleep problems and medicine anxiety.

It sounds as though you've tried all remedies, but with no success.

You will function better with less daytime anxiety if you get a sound night's sleep.

I realize you know this, but just to reiterate....LOL.

Ambien is not habit forming from my vague memory of trying it many years ago.  Unfortunately for me, it did not help with my sleep disorder.

What I urge you to consider, is changing you focus from the D word to the F for 'functioning as well as possible, phrase.

All of us here struggle with negative labels, either connected to our conditions or the medications we need to function.  If you and your doctor agree on your diagnosis and treatment, please take whatever you need to feel well.

Good luck.   Sleep well.

[RubyWitch]

You say you've been on the Trazodone and diazepam for YEARS. It's very possible that you just reached a tolerance level and need to have the dosages tweaked a little. This is certainly not uncommon. It could also be the reason your anxiety level has suddenly increased. Perhaps you could speak with your doctor about upping the dosages of the Trazadone and diazepam and see if that helps before adding the Ambien.
You might want to also post this on the Complimentary Medicine Forum, both Laura and Paxiled are great at recommending natural alternatives.
Let us know how you're doing and if you still can't find any relief, we'll all put our heads together and come up with more ideas! Don't give up.
Peace
Greenlydia