Can medication help derealisation??

[Kittyg]

Hi there,

I would really love to hear if anyone has had success taking medication/antidepressants for a dissociation disorder? Or even anyone who experiences this condition? Over the past 2 years I have experienced quite bad episodes of anxiety and depression. Currently my mood and my life is great and I can handle anxiety a lot better now... but I have this horrible brain fog that is bringing me down to rock bottom again. Most days I feel as though I am living in a dream state and its horribly depressing. I am currently traveling around Canada and intend to stay here and work for a year. The problem is I feel as though I wouldn't even be able to start a new job because my brain is so foggy. It really is upsetting because I just want to enjoy my time here... but I feel like its such a struggle with this derealsation -if thats what I even have? I feel quite lost and helpless and I have made a doctors appointment...but I am wondering if going on anti depressents will even help? It has always been my last resort and I would rather not go on them...but if anyone thinks its a good idea or if it will help then maybe I should? Feeling lost.

[blondguy]

Hello Kittyg

The feeling of derealisation can be a pain. I have had anxiety/depression since 1983 and having a 'foggy' brain is like having a heavy blanket placed over your head which can make it hard to find our way.

You are a pro-active person with self care which is clear from your post and good on you! Can I ask you about any symptoms re anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing?

Just my humble opinion through experience but a foggy brain can sometimes be a 'tired' mind. Are you sleeping okay? Sleep (or lack of it) is usually a good indicator of what is happening

You are not on your own where having brain fog is concerned Kitty

Kind Thoughts

Paulx

[white knight]

Hi kittyg

Paul is right and I know that foggy feeling well.

Many years ago when first sent to a therapist he had to constantly ask me if I was realistic in my thinking and conclusions. Of course I wasn't.

Part of my recovery was a small dose of antidepressants and over the years each time I went off them I felt the changes. I now know my brain needs these to get the balance as right as it could be.

Not all of us humans have perfect minds. We need to rely on some assistance to allow us to function as close to normal as possible.

Please don't be wary of medication. Meds are just one part of the cake mix for success. The mix includes exercise, sleep, therapy, calm relax friendships and a good financial situation among others you might think of.

Google ...Topic: what life's like at the end if the tunnel- beyondblue

Tony WK

[Ben1]

Hi Kittyg,

So sorry to hear about your experience. Dissociative symptoms can be some of the most confusing when it comes to anxiety and depression as they are often so different to what people have experienced before. It doesn't feel good at all to feel foggy or unable to fully enjoy the world around you. However, what white knight said is completely true. Medication, exercise and taking care of your wellbeing are ingredients in a plan to make you feel better. Medication can seem scary and a 'last resort' to many people, but with proper management it can be a hugely helpful tool in helping depression and anxiety.

When I experienced your symptoms, of a foggy mind and disconnection with reality: medication, trying to connect with others and some light exercise really helped me to take control of the world around me. Also, surprisingly, a cup or two of coffee really helped me as well.

I hope you can enjoy the rest of your holiday, please let us know what is happening on this thread 🙂

All the best,
Ben