Struggling but know it will get better

[Mopani12]

Hello- had depression 10 years ago which was pretty horrific until I got help, medicated for two years and then was able to come off it. Have had no reoccurrence until last Friday-tightness across chest, churning stomach, heavy arms, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. Tests have shown no heart problem so have started on medication. Have had to call ambulance twice (they were fantastic) and settled me down and assured me I didn't have to go to hospital. Tightness across chest has improved but heavy arms, churning stomach, difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite still remains. Am financially OK and live comfortably. Would love to know if others have had these symptoms and how they overcome them.

[jess334]

Hi Mopani12,

Welcome to the Beyond Blue forums. I hope you find the community here as much help as I have.

You mention that you have been put back on medication. How long have you been on it? It can take up to 6 weeks for it to reach maximum effectiveness. If it isn't helping with all of your symptoms perhaps you should speak to your doctor about trying a different dose or medication? It can sometimes take a while to find the right one.

I think a lot of people are struggling with anxiety and depression right now. This is uncharted territory and even if you are financially solvent the changes happening around the globe are still stressful.

What do you do when the symptoms start? Do you try to distract yourself? I sometimes use tv, or play games on my phone to get my mind off the panic.

Keep posting, Jess

[Mopani12]

Medication working feeling so much better and my doctor has been wonderful. Just need to get a good night's sleep and will be even better

[jess334]

Hi Mopani12,

Great to hear from you. Thanks for coming back and updating us.

I'm so glad that you are feeling better and your medication is working.

I hope you get a good nights sleep soon. If you're having difficulty falling asleep I find the Smiling Mind app is really helpful. They have sleep specific mediation that is great.

Kind thoughts, Jess