Xanax/ panic disorder

[etq22]

I was given 0.25mg of Xanax and I'm absolutely terrified to take them because I don't know what they will do to me. Do you still feel like yourself, like have control over your body? I'm having major panic issues and haven't been able to leave my bed in 4 days minus to use the bathroom, and have a panic attack every time i get back to the room. Does anyone have any words of wisdom for me?

[mele48]

I 100% agree with cnote.  I've successfully used xanax at that same dosage to help my off/on anxiety for several years.  Because my issues have become chronic, I'm now on a daily medication.  I didn't want to take medication either - especially daily!  But I can tell you, I was a prisoner of my anxiety, and as much as I didn't want to take pills, I wanted my life back more.  And it was the best decision I ever made.

The biggest piece of medical truth I was given that helped me was this - this is not about me being weak.  This is not about me "failing".  This is about a chemical imbalance in my brain that is causing this.  In just the same way I take allergy medicine for my allergies to correct what my body can't do on its own, I am now taking medication for my anxiety.

Medication + therapy has been life-changing for me.  Cnote is right - this isn't forever!  Take things just one hour at a time, keep breathing, and better days are coming!

[cnote]

First off, I'm NOT a Dr.. And we can not tell you what to do on here.

I will tell you through my experience. Xanax will make you feel GREAT within probably 15 minutes. You will feel chilled out. I used to take Ativan, which is a little longer lasting than Xanax. But its in the same group of Z drugs called benzodiazapines.

Xanax and or Ativan, made me feel like putting on my nice warm Christmas Jammies, and snuggling up on the couch and watching a good movie. You just feel Calm and Relaxed. :)

However, in my experience, I got physically dependent on them. I later found out, 4 years later, by another Dr., he told ME that benzos should not be given to a patient more than 1-2 weeks because they cause physical dependency. Not addiction. There is a difference.

I would LISTEN to your Dr. and take the xanax as prescribed if that's what he wants you to do.

Sometimes medicine IS needed. Don't be afraid of it. It will help you calm down.

You will still have control over your body. The wonderful thing about how advanced we are in medicine. If you do not like xanax, just call your Dr. and tell him. There are many medicines out there to help with anxiety.

Also are you seeking therapy? Panic attacks can be easily treated with CBT and in even more severe cases of panic, CBT and a combo of a medication can work WONDERS.

My adivce, don't be afraid of the medicine. Right now you probably need a little something to get through a rough patch.

Also remember, THIS IS NOT FOREVER. THIS TOO SHALL PASS.

I have a history of ups and downs with anxiety. As much as you feel "STUCK"... and feel "Life will always be like this... ill never feel normal again." That is simply not true. :)

Keep at it. Stay on top of it. And you will win. :) Youre in a great forum.

Nursegirl might chime in soon to give some great advice as well. She's awesome. :)