topic How long did it for medication to work for you in Treatments, health professionals and therapies

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 08:48:01 GMT

Just wanting to see how long it took to notice a change once starting medication?

I'm only at day six but I feel like I'm getting worse. All I want to do is sleep because I don't want to be in "reality" the anxiety hasn't died down. I feel like my heart is about to jump out of my chest, its so bad it hurts. I feel like my whole body is shaking and having "tick" like sensations. I must add this was all here before starting medication.

Ive been prescribed two different medications is anyone able to give feed back?

Prescribed for helo in treatment for PTSD

TIA

How long did it for medication to work for you

PatT — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 23:29:40 GMT

Hi ribbonwhite,

I also have PTSD and I've tried a number of different medications for that and anxiety/depression/bipolar and many of them take at least a couple of weeks to work. They don't fire up a big immediate response but rather a slow and gradual change. Lots of people report feeling worse off during the onset and that's because your brain chemistry is adjusting in response to the medication. I know that I've had much worse anxiety when i've started taking medications for anxiety and this often lasts a couple of weeks. Fortunately the drugs do work, it just takes a little while for the meds to build up in your system.

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 00:19:56 GMT

Thanks PatT for your response

You mentioned you have tried a few medications, do you mind me asking how many you tried before you found something that helped?

Also are you able to describe how medication has helped?

I suppose im skeptical because PTSD comes from a traumatic time in my life. I don't see how medication can help me "move on" from all the hurt that was caused

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 00:33:40 GMT

Hi ribbonwhite,

I've been prescribed a variety of medications for anxiety and depression during the past 20 years.

It's perfectly natural to want the meds to work as soon as possible, but in my experience, most psychotropic drugs can take up to 6 weeks before there is a noticeable change and, as PatT wrote, because they are working to adjust your brain chemistry, the change is usually gradual.

However, everyone's brain chemistry is different. I found that the meds for depression began to work after about a month. About a year later, I was diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder and prescribed a major tranquillizer and a mood stabilizer which both took about 3 weeks to "kick in". Again, everyone is different in their response times. I remember that, after I was prescribed the meds for anxiety, I expected them to work within a few days and ended up making myself more anxious when they didn't.

In the meantime, can you speak to your doctor or therapist about your concerns? It may also help if you can find a way to temporarily distract yourself - anything that can take you out of yourself for a period of time. I find relaxation and guided visualization CDs extremely beneficial. These are also available in app. forms that you can download.

I have no doubts your meds will begin to give you some relief soon - just try to be patient for a few weeks and talk to your doctor/therapist if need be.

Best wishes

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 05:17:23 GMT

Hi ladyhawke

Thanks for your response.

I didn't really expect a major change this early. But I suppose I had hoped the anxiety might die down a bit.

I have been doing everything i used to do to keep everything "under control" but nothing is helping this time. even going out and walking isn't helping at all. I see the psychiatrist this Wednesday to see how I'm going. I know I need to give them time. But as I said previously I don't see how medication can help to overcome what has happened.

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 11:13:32 GMT

Hi again ribbonwhite,

I felt the same way when I began taking psychotropic medication and I think many people do.

I can only speak about my own particular experiences; others may have had completely different reactions.

When I finally found the correct antidepressant, after trialling many, I found that, after a while, there was a feeling of detachment from the depression and certain issues which seemed to trigger it. I still had a level of depression and the memories were still there, but they weren't foremost in my thoughts all the time. I was able to compartmentalize them and not spend most of my waking hours ruminating over them. I felt a certain distance from those thoughts, which enabled me to speak about my feelings with my psychiatrist without bursting into tears every time I spoke about painful issues.

I found the medication for my anxiety worked in much the same way and it also worked very directly on the physical aspects of the illness - after spending years waking up shaking and feeling nauseous, I would take the meds about an hour before getting up (as prescribed) and within an hour I was able to get up and function. Again, these meds created a level of detachment, so that if I experienced distressing, intrusive thought, I wouldn't immediately have an anxiety or panic attack.

For me, the treatment for the severe anxiety has been more successful than the treatments for depression. I have just spent 3 weeks in hospital with a resistant bout of depression.

Again, everyone's experiences are unique. It may be very helpful if you speak with your psychiatrist on Wednesday about the issues you've raised here. Reassurance by a professional can be be enormously comforting, particularly in the early stages of treatment. I really hope all goes well for you. Feel free to contact me if you wish - I check into the forums about every 2/3 days.

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 23:53:27 GMT

Thanks ladyhawke for sharing your experience.

It gives me a little peace of mind that the medication may help "soften" the memories that constantly linger around in my head.

I hope you are doing better now after your hospital stay.

I go back to work tomorrow after just under two weeks off. I'm not sure if I'm ready to. But not being at work means no income. I'm still at this stage where I just don't want to be anywhere, I still feel very lost. I'm trying to stay strong for my son. But in the same respect feel like he deserves so much more than a mother that's sad all the time.

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 00:38:40 GMT

Hi ribbonwhite,

Thank you - I'm feeling much better after my stay in hospital.

Yes, it does help to speak to people who may have had similar experiences - you feel like you're not the only one going through it.

Very difficult to work if you're not feeling well. Perhaps it may help a bit if you try to see each day as being one step closer to the medication taking effect and softening the harsh edges of your illness. Perhaps you could visualize certain activities or things you may like to do once you are in recovery - daydreaming never hurts; I'm a huge fan of it.

As a mother, it's difficult not to feel responsible for everything. However, you are not responsible for your illness and there are tens of thousands of people experiencing similar feelings. Try not to feel guilty over something you cannot control. You've taken the most positive steps available to enable you to feel better and, after a few months of therapy and medication, your little boy will have a Mum who isn't so sad.

Take care and let me know how things go for you - I'm genuinely interested.

How long did it for medication to work for you

PatT — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 01:31:58 GMT

Hi,

I've tried about 6 medications since I was 12 (24 years old now) and in my case some work for a period then stop. It's quite strange but that's just the way some operate I suppose. I know doctor's don't have a firm understanding of how SSRIs actually work (or why they stop working) but I've been on the same one for about 2 years now and it's been going well.

Medication certainly doesn't help you "move on" but it can greatly reduce the amount of mental trauma you experience around the issue. I know my PTSD manifests in different ways like night terrors, huge outbursts of anxiety/hysteria in some situations etc. and from experience when I'm on my meds then I know these manifestations occur less. To move on from PTSD is certainly a difficult thing to imagine and I am nowhere near yet. But have you considered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)? I believe it has one of the highest success rates in helping people with PTSD.

Personally meditation has helped me more than anything. Any other questions, please ask away

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 03:40:26 GMT

Thanks for your response ladyhawke.

At this stage I am just trying to take each day as it comes. Some are a little easier than others I really struggle to get out of bed. I'm trying to set myself a goal by starting at a gym. This in itself is a hard task with a little one and very little support network. I'm hoping to find one with childcare that's not too espensive.

You have said you have suffered for many years. Do you mind measking if you feel this has impacted on relationships? Friendships, romantic or otherwise? Just curious as I have found in my case it has. I only have a very very small support being my closet friend and sister and feel those relationships are strained. And anything romantic has not lasted long.

I very much appreciate you taking the time to reply

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 03:56:07 GMT

Thanks for your reply PatT

I suppose with the medication it will just have to come down to trial and error. One of the medications is a sedative to help me get off to sleep but so far I haven't had any luck with that helping. I haven't tried CBT. I spent two years with a DV Counsellor six months with a sexual assult counsellors and six sessions with a psychologist. They helped for a while. But then I could feel it all building up again. This time being the worst and could only be described as having a "break down" I really feel at a loss because I don't see how anything can help me anymore. I am trying to take each day as it comes, but I can't help but think "what am I doing here all my life has been is hurt and trauma" I am trying to stay strong for my son. I know how much he needs me. I suppose I just don't see that light anymore

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How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 05:15:23 GMT

Dear ribbonwhite,

When I first began seeing a psychiatrist, 20 years ago, he suggested that until I stabilised, I should simply concentrate on getting by, one hour at a time, and viewing that as a small achievement. It began to make sense after about 2 weeks. I had tended to negatively project ahead to days, weeks and months until I felt I was suffocating with anxiety. I'm sure you're psychiatrist can be of great help with this type of behaviour modification when you see him.

I think it's terrific that you've attempted to set yourself a goal to go to the gym. Just don't beat yourself up if you don't always make it - the gym will still be there tomorrow or the day after that - try not to feel like a failure. You're going through hell - you're entitled to lapse every now and then.

My anxiety began at the age of five, when I started school. I was a highly sensitive child, suffered severe separation anxiety and was raised in a very dysfunctional family environment. The depression kicked in when I was about 9.

My anxiety had an enormous impact on friendships and relationships men. I've had two long-term relationships with men and both were married. My anxiety prevented me establishing relationships with single men because it worried me that it may lead to marriage and me being trapped. I have never had what would be considered a "normal" male/female relationship. My romantic involvements only lasted because both men were unattainable. I enjoy male company enormously, but strictly on a platonic level. I came to the realisation about 6 years ago that I would never have a life partner which sent my depression spiralling for about a year. I gradually came to accept the situation and now my view is "life is what it is". Like you, I have a very small network of friends who I see fairly infrequently.

Interestingly, I have developed a correspondence on these forums with another female anxiety sufferer over the last few months. She is in her late 20s and has also had severe anxiety for many years. Last week, she brought up the subject of relationships and her complete inability to form relationships with males due to her anxiety. I was surprised, but I also think it must be reasonably common for many people ( male and female) with severe anxiety disorders to be unable to bond with others in the "normal" manner.

I hope this has been a bit helpful. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or just feel like a bit of reassurance.

Regards

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 09:39:35 GMT

Thanks for your response ladyhawke

My anxiety started as a teenager at the time I couldn't associate it with anything. It was once becoming an adult and having a child of my own I could put it down to growing up with a narcissistic mother. All my life I have walked on egg shells. I did start to question why she treated me the way she did around the age of 15 her response to that was calling the police and getting me put in a 48 psych hold. (She had told the police I had been violent to her. Which I hadn't) from that she then went to the doctors and reckoned she had numerous mental health issues arise because of me. Growing up everything was "my fault", her marriage to my father ended because of me (she was pregnant with me at the time of seperation) her "illnesses" were because of me and so on. By putting me in the pshyc hold and going to the doctor for the mental health issues I "caused" she was then able to get a disability pension. Just in time before her payments would be cut off because I would be turning 16 convenient hey? So I suppose all my life I have done stuff to try and please others hoping that it would prevent others telling me I was a terrible person like my mother did on a daily basis. That's why I believe today that I have been in two DV relationships. The second one was very violent and happens to be the father of my child. I have had a couple of short term relationships since him but they ended quickly due too various reasons. Then there is the one that ended a couple of weeks ago. To me it finally felt like I was in a "normal" relationship. Everything was going along perfectly we got along great. And then suddenly out of nowhere he ended. I can't help but think it was due to my PTSD and anxiety but I will never know. I can't help but think that I will never having a loving normal long term relationship. But I can't blame the guy for that, who would want to be with someone so broken. The psychiatrist said my longing for family and loving partner is a lot higher than most because I've never experienced having loving parents or a partner that's treated me right. I feel stupid for wanting something so badly that in reality is probably never going to happen.

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 11:44:31 GMT

Hi again ribbonwhite,

Although my mother did not go to those extremes, she was a very unwell woman mentally who denied she had any issues and seemed to take pleasure in inflicting emotional and psychological abuse. From what I have told my psychiatrist, it seems she had a number of severe personality disorders. I understand, after 20 years of therapy, that her long-term emotional/psychological abuse is the major reason why I was never able to form normal relationships. She passed 21 years ago and all I feel is relief; she should never have had children. She was the reason that I decided, in my early 20s, that I would never have children. I was worried that her behaviour may have been genetic and that if I had a child I may have ended up treating them in the same manner. There was never any consistency with her and this contributed enormously to my distrust of people and consequently my anxiety/depressive disorders.

I was also a "pleaser" - always wanting people to like me but always feeling rejected.

I'm sorry your relationship ended suddenly; that would certainly send your anxiety levels through the roof and really give your self-confidence a major shake-up. If it was only a few weeks ago, you may still be experiencing the shock from the sudden ending.

It's odd that when we start out in life, we have certain expectations of how life will go. It comes as one hell of a shock when, bit by bit, those expectations are chipped away and we find ourselves very different to what our younger selves were. I suppose there is some comfort in the fact that this is the human condition.

I am very glad that you have the professional support of your psychiatrist. I was very fortunate to eventually find someone who was the right fit for me and have been seeing him weekly for the past 14 years. I consider myself very fortunate to have his support.

I hope the next few days are tolerable. Contact me whenever you wish, even if you just feel like venting to someone. I would be interested to know how you feel after you see your psychiatrist on Wednesday. Don't feel as though you are an imposition if you need to make contact. We've all been through the wringer here on the forums and by helping someone else, we usually end up gaining a little more insight into our own issues.

Best wishes,

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 07:14:14 GMT

Hi again ladyhawke

Its amazing how much damage is done growing up with parent/parents that really shouldnt be. I have had no contact now for just over two years. She(mother) on the other hand still tries. her punishment to me for cutting contact was putting in an affidavit to the family court saying I was abusing my son and that my sons abusive alcoholic father was a saint. Luckily for me the judge could see right through her and in his findings mentioned she should never been a parent and in final orders it states no family members are able to have contact with my son. I still get the occasional threatening / abusive message from her now and then. She just can't help herself. Narcissists don't understand no contact or boundries.

It saddens me that you felt it best not to have children. But I understand as this is a fear of mine with my own son. But I also know that I am nothing like her because everything I do is for my son. She is all about what she can get where I am all that I can give.

I just had a conversation with a friend that had an absolutely horrific upbringing about opening up to a partner or potential partners about whats happened. We are both agreed to not. It changes the way someone sees you. They treat you differently. I've found they either think they can also get away with treating you the same way or they just can't handle it so they walk away. I'd like to think it wasn't this way but I've seen it first hand.

I had a psychologist tell me that I would never be able to have a stable relationship. Maybe he was right.

I'm pleased for you that you have found the right psychologist. Do you find this slightly comforting?

regards rw

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 03:34:55 GMT

Dear ribbonwhite,

Firstly, I must apologise for not responding earlier. My elderly father has been quite ill and I have been completely preoccupied with his care.

I completely understand you not having contact for two years. It's sad and unfortunate, but I regret not limiting the amount of contact I had with my mother whilst she was alive.

I'm glad that you have a close friend who had a similar set of circumstances to deal with. It makes a huge difference to be able to share experiences with someone you trust.

I'm not a mental health professional, however, I really feel the need to take issue with what your previous psychologist told you about you never being unable to form a future stable relationship. Not only do I find that incredibly insensitive, I also find it an unbelievably negative thing to say. It's a terribly defeatist statement to make to someone who is feeling fragile. Have you brought this remark up with your current psychiatrist? I would do so; each therapist has their own take on these issues and it may bring a little light into your situation.

Yes, I saw four psychiatrists before finding my current doctor. It makes an enormous difference to know that he really understands me. He is incredibly supportive and I am very grateful to have him in my life.

I would be interested to know how things are going with your own psychiatrist.

Again, I'm very sorry for not responding sooner and I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 09:03:40 GMT

Hi lh

No need to apoligise. I hope your father is ok.

I thank you for still taking the time to reply.

I haven't taken it up with my psychiatrist as yet. But I will as he has a better understanding of PTSD. I was meant to have an appointment with him yesterday afternoon but my son came down with gastro yesterday morning. Due to not being able to go to work. And having time off to get my self better I unofficially was fired yesterday. (Was told I was being taken off the roster all together with no actual return date) even though medical certificates have been provided. So now this has been another major set back. Especially at this time of year.

I hope you are well

Regards rw

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Sun, 20 Dec 2015 03:42:33 GMT

Dear rw,

I'm so very sorry about your work situation; I really feel for you. I know what it's like to be expected to carry on when all you feel like doing is curling up in a ball. I can only imagine how difficult it must be dealing with such a situation when you have a child.

I realise people in business need to keep things turning over, but I still cannot comprehend the lack of compassion when others are genuinely unwell and provide documented support. I am aware of three other people who have been in a smilar situation - two also had children. They eventually all found their feet, but it was difficult for a little while.

I understand you have provided documented support of you illness to your employer. I wonder if you could perhaps ask your psychiatrist to make direct contact (via telephone) with your employer/human resources manager to discuss the issue. Is that something worthwhile, do you think? I would definitely give it a go, were it me, but then I tend to be a little aggressive in these sorts of matters.

I can understand how you must feel like you've had the stuffing knocked out of you.

My psychiatrist told me, a while ago, to try to view everything, especially negative experiences, as temporary. It did take a while to sink in, and I don't always remember his words, but when I can, acknowledging that everything is in a constant state of flux and is not permanent has been enormously helpful.

Please keep me informed, if you're up to it. I'm particularly interested in the progress with your psychiatrist. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers,

ladyhawke

Between appointments with your psychiatrist, do contact one of the professionals at beyondblue if you start to feel overwhelmed or your anxiety rising. With all that you're going through, missing one appointment can be a huge deal. Often speaking to a kind professional can sometimes help to avoid the negative feelings escalate.

How long did it for medication to work for you

ribbonwhite — Sun, 20 Dec 2015 05:48:02 GMT

Hi lh

I did seek legal advice regarding what has happened. I didn't know where I stood only being casual. But due to being there over a year and the hours I work on a regular basis I have very high grounds for unfair dismissal. I do have a meeting with my boss tomorrow morning. I have been told to not go in there and beg for my job as I have done nothing wrong. So I will see if he reinsates me. If not I will be left to lodge unfair dismissal. I have barely a cent to my name and have no savings left. He knew that I had time off for mental health reasons. But obviously only sees dollar signs and no compassion. Do you mind me asking the outcome of people you knew in his position?

It has been a set back not making that appointment. But I have one for this week. I feel the meds are starting to take effect now. All though I forgot to take them last night, now today I am not having a good day.

How is your father doing? I hope you are taking care of yourself aswell. I'd say you a very much like myself that cares tremendously about other but forgets about oneself. So Dont forget to take that time out for yourself.

Regards rw

How long did it for medication to work for you

Ladyhawke — Sun, 20 Dec 2015 10:43:07 GMT

Hi rw,

Well I'm very glad you've decided to "have a go" regarding the work situation. I was going to mention it, but wasn't sure where the situation was and didn't want to bring up anything that may have stressed you out further. I know it's tough to play hardball, especially if you're feeling slightly fragile, but if you are able to, stand firm and try not to take any crap. From what I can gather, you've been treated appallingly. This person sounds as though he will continue to be clueless about employees with mental health issues unless he is "educated". I have issues with people in power abusing those they consider to have very little power (my mother issues again).

Of the three people in similar situations to yours, one was reinstated after going through mediation; one sued for unfair dismissal and was successful and the other individual was fortunate to find another, better position after about six weeks. I am really hoping that you can prevail and achieve an outcome you're satisfied with.

Very glad the meds have begun to kick in a bit for you. Try not to be too hard on yourself if you miss the odd dose ocassionally. I have found the only way I can keep on track with my meds is to write the time and med taken in my day diary. I don't want to rely on my memory and I have found this is the only way I can be sure all meds have been taken; I've been using this system for about 15 years and it's worked well for me. So, you'll take your meds tonight and hopefully feel a little better tomorrow.

My father's health fluctuates - one day OK, the next not so good. You're absolutely right, in times of this type of stress, all thoughts of myself go out the window and I end up running on empty. I'm trying to get adequate sleep because if I'm sleep-deprived I have great difficulty functioning.

All the very best for tomorrow and try to be as strong as you can. Will be thinking of you - let me know how it goes, if you feel up to it.

Take care.