social anxiety & medication

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-14-2005
social anxiety & medication
4
Fri, 07-14-2006 - 3:17pm

Hi everyone-

I was recently diagnosed with social anxiety although I've known about it for about 12 years, it just got increasingly worse and worse. I have been having panic attacks almost daily, thinking I was losing it, almost driving myself to the hospital, etc. Well, my psychiatrist prescribed me 1 mg clonazepam daily and it's been helping with the severe symptoms, although sometimes chest tightness/difficulty breathing is still there. I know it's only been a few days, but will I eventually get completely better? I just don't believe that a little pill every day can give me normal relationships. I'm scared to deal of any relationships and conversation. Will it eventually help or is this something I'll have for life?

Thanks
Meg

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Fri, 07-14-2006 - 6:11pm

I believe that with the proper treatment, we can all get better.

Sheri Ann

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-14-2005
Fri, 07-14-2006 - 7:22pm

The thing is, the klonopin is helping with the physical symptoms, it's just that I'm still afraid of relationships. I'm just confused about whether or not anything can change that? I'm seeing a therapist but only for 4 more sessions before I go to school... hopefully he can help.

Thanks for responding!
Meg

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Fri, 07-14-2006 - 7:27pm

Hi, Meg! I take klonopin(clonazepam) twice a day. It has helped me through my latest spell of extra anxiety. Like Sheri Ann suggested, call the dr. for a med adjustment.


I think counseling would help to learn how to face your fears of social situations. Meds are only a tool. Learning to cope is the answer for many of us. You can get better. Your issues have been around for a long time. Noone expects them to disappear overnight. Though I am sure you are impatient to feel better. Maybe once you get your meds adjusted, you will be able to join in some social situations that you are uncomfortable with. I wish you well. Good luck! (((hugs))) jan




 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Fri, 07-14-2006 - 8:49pm

Continue to see the therapist until school starts & work on lessening your social anxiety, using the skills you should be learning in therapy.

Sheri Ann