Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Feeling Nervous

I took a half dose of my antidepressant this morning as the beginning of an attempt to come off it. Whether or not I’ll be able to come of the stupid things altogether, or whether I’ll need a new one remains to be seen. My doctor and I will work that out as time goes on.

I’ve been unhappy about some stuff in my life for a while – basically all my creativity seems to be abandoning me, from my creative writing (just gone with everything untouched for about two years) to my stitching (just don’t feel like doing it) and even my reading (getting harder and harder), along with some other stuff that doesn’t need to be mentioned in a public place.

I recently went to see a CFS specialist (something I meant to blog about but never did – maybe one day) and something she said made me wonder if these things related to the antidepressant rather than it being a case of “just me” as I had been assuming.

All the same, trying to go off an antidepressant is always rather scary as you never know if the depression will come back or what the withdrawal will be like. And the withdrawal from this one (Effexor) is supposed to be especially nasty.

So all in all, I’m feeling pretty nervous about it all. A few good thoughts would be appreciated and we’ll see how it goes as the days go on.

6 comments:

orannia said...

*crosses fingers*

GOOD LUCK! You know where I am if you need someone to talk to :)

Aussie Stitcher said...

Hi Kerry, I came off Effexor about 6 months ago and went onto Zoloft. I don't remember having too many problems, mainly feeling light headed, but I was also dealing with high blood pressure, so I can not be sure if the symptoms were the change of medication or not. Take care, I hope it goes well for you (((HUGS)))

Marg said...

I have everything crossed for you Kerry, hoping that you make a smooth transition!

Kerry said...

Aussie Stitcher - thanks for that. It's good to know it isn't always bad. So far I have dry eyes and I'm starting to feel pretty lightheaded. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Thanks orannia and Marg - your good thoughts are much appreciated. I'm glad I'm doing it, but it's still a bit scary.

fudgey said...

((((hug)))
i am definately thinking of you and hoping the side effects are not to bad..
i know how scary it is

ps ( i have your silks.. i just need to actually get to a post office!)

Nicole said...

Antidepressants are tough. I came off some last summer and, let's just say, I'm back on. The withdrawl can be scary, but I'm glad to hear you're doing it with your doctor's knowledge and help. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!