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Overwhelmed single mom, Effexor, Weight Gain, Irregular periods
I left my emotionally abusive, alcoholic, unemployed husband about two years ago. We are now divorced and I have primary care and control of my three wonderful boys. I've been working really hard to give them a good life and keep it all together. The boys are very active in sports and I do the majority of the running around with them. I'm employed full time with a great company and I've also recently started a part time side business to supplement my income because I don't receive consistant child support from my ex. I feel exhausted most of the time and I tend to feel overwhelmed alot. Most of my friends and family tell me I'm amazing and they could never do what I do but I feel like I don't have a choice because my kids mean the world to me and I'm the sole provider.
My doctor precribed my with Effexor Xr 75mg's to help control my bouts of depression and anxiety. Since I've been on it I've gained about 20 pounds and I am now smoking full time. (I used to smoke only socially). I have contant cravings for food, cigarettes and sometimes alcohol. The other problem I'm having is that my menstrual periods have been very irregular. I'm bleeding in between cycles and having alot of cramping. I can't get in to see my doctor for a few more weeks, but I'm considering switching to Wellbutrin (based on what I've read) to control the weight gain and cravings.
I feel that I need to stay on medication for a while to handle my emotions, but now I'm worried about other health issues. I'm wondering if anyone else out there has experienced anything similar?
My doctor precribed my with Effexor Xr 75mg's to help control my bouts of depression and anxiety. Since I've been on it I've gained about 20 pounds and I am now smoking full time. (I used to smoke only socially). I have contant cravings for food, cigarettes and sometimes alcohol. The other problem I'm having is that my menstrual periods have been very irregular. I'm bleeding in between cycles and having alot of cramping. I can't get in to see my doctor for a few more weeks, but I'm considering switching to Wellbutrin (based on what I've read) to control the weight gain and cravings.
I feel that I need to stay on medication for a while to handle my emotions, but now I'm worried about other health issues. I'm wondering if anyone else out there has experienced anything similar?
I've been on Lexapro for 3 years for what I refer to as EXTREME PMS all the time. My doctor says its due to strees and stretching my self too thin ie. kids, work, hubby, etc...
I've gained about 25 lbs on this anti-depressant and that alone is depressing. I've talked to my hubby and mom and they're both lovingly told me they're rather have me a little plump than a Raging "you know what!". I'm sure aging has allot to do with the weight gain too, seems like I hit 30 and my metobolism quit.
I wish you the best of luck with your decision and please remember it's much better to feel sane than skinny!
Good luck!
Kristen
I've gained about 25 lbs on this anti-depressant and that alone is depressing. I've talked to my hubby and mom and they're both lovingly told me they're rather have me a little plump than a Raging "you know what!". I'm sure aging has allot to do with the weight gain too, seems like I hit 30 and my metobolism quit.
I wish you the best of luck with your decision and please remember it's much better to feel sane than skinny!
Good luck!
Kristen
I would suggest therapy along with changing your med. Don't knock it, talking it out with a non-involved person gives a much clearer perception of life and how we handle things.
The most important thing that I learned when I was re-adjusting to life after hell, was that you need to find time for yourself. If you don't rejuvenate your mind and soul, you will be of no use to anyone. Even if it's just 1/2hr a day soaking in a hot bath with a glass of wine and a book, do it. Some form of exercise would be better. Endorphins are my life line.
And don't forget, there are a lot of other women out there that are doing just what you are. We have made it to a better place, you will too.
peace
The most important thing that I learned when I was re-adjusting to life after hell, was that you need to find time for yourself. If you don't rejuvenate your mind and soul, you will be of no use to anyone. Even if it's just 1/2hr a day soaking in a hot bath with a glass of wine and a book, do it. Some form of exercise would be better. Endorphins are my life line.
And don't forget, there are a lot of other women out there that are doing just what you are. We have made it to a better place, you will too.
peace
Thank you all for your responses. I got choked up just hearing encouragement from others. Hearing other peoples' stories does really seem to help. It's hard to explain the crazy emotional rollercoaster that goes along with divorce.
Ish, I hate even reading the word Effexor. I was on it for about a month and was seriously ready to commit suicide. Coming off of it, even after a such a short period of time was terrible.
Wellbutrin worked well for me however, if you have anxiety issues, it may increase those levels. I tend to get anxious and it only made things worse. I would take 150 mg of Wellbutrin and 25 mg of Celexa at night. I'm not saying that would be the right combo for you. You definately need to talk to your dr.. I was only on it for about six months after my first miscarriage. Coming off was not terrible and I did lose about 10 lbs. I had more energy. I started walking 5 miles a day three times a week. I think that may have had something to do with the weight loss.
I know how hard it is to take time for yourself but you need to give yourself some quiet time too. Even if it's only 15 minutes a day. Good luck.
Wellbutrin worked well for me however, if you have anxiety issues, it may increase those levels. I tend to get anxious and it only made things worse. I would take 150 mg of Wellbutrin and 25 mg of Celexa at night. I'm not saying that would be the right combo for you. You definately need to talk to your dr.. I was only on it for about six months after my first miscarriage. Coming off was not terrible and I did lose about 10 lbs. I had more energy. I started walking 5 miles a day three times a week. I think that may have had something to do with the weight loss.
I know how hard it is to take time for yourself but you need to give yourself some quiet time too. Even if it's only 15 minutes a day. Good luck.
I too am on Lexopro. I understand a lot of the emotional issues you are going through. I am a mother of 3 boys, also who's father was emotional and physically abusive no job and alcohol and drug problems. We have been divorced now for 6 years. I have my own home and am raising my children on my own. I am only 30 yrs old. I've been on Paxil and lexopro. The Paxil was more for anxiety, the lexepro is for both depression and anxiety. However, with me I still have the cravings on Lexepro. I think that it's different with each person. It may help also to know that others go through what you are going through and that you are not alone. Keep you head up and focus on those kids, you can do anything you put your mind to. I tell myself all the time, especially when it gets to the point that I feel like given up, that I'm better than that I my children and I deserve the best out of life.
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