Paroxetine problems
Question
After six months of taking the antidepressant Paroxetine, I stopped taking it over a year ago. Since then I've felt like my mind isn't 'in sync' with my body, or even with the world around me. It feels like things have shifted to one side and I can't get back to where I once was. I also now feel that my anxiety-related symptoms are returning. Am I experiencing long-term side-effects?
Answer
It's good to hear you've received some treatment, but it's understandable you're concerned about the long-term side effects of Paroxetine. Feeling like your mind is out of balance with your body sounds distressing, especially since it has been a year since you stopped taking antidepressants.
Antidepressants are commonly used to treat cases of anxiety. As with any medication, they can have side-effects. It may be worth making an appointment with your doctor (GP) to discuss your concerns about the impact Paroxetine has had on you and the anxiety-related symptoms you feel are returning. Alternatively, you can also call the UKPPG Psychiatric Medication advice line on 020 7919 2999 for further information about the medication.
Everyone feels anxious some of the time, especially when stressful things are happening in their lives, but some experiences can be more intense than others. Other factors may be worsening your feelings, such as those related to your relationships or work, so you may want to consider these issues individually. Even so, sometimes there's no obvious reason for feelings of anxiety, so it can hard to know what is causing it.
There are alternative methods of treating anxiety such as talking treatments, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Your GP will be able to discuss the options with you, or suggest other avenues of support available to you.
Talking to someone like a counsellor or therapist can be very effective. They may help you to explore your feelings and work out ways of handling your anxiety in a confidential, non-judgemental environment. If you wish to seek this form of support independently, you can find out about local services in your area from the British Association for Counsellling and Psychotherapy. Alternatively, your GP might be able to refer you to an appropriate service.
If underlying emotional problems are the cause of your anxiety, discussing them with friends or family may help in dealing with them. Doing this can seem be difficult, but if there is someone you trust to confide in, you might find it helps you to make a start on understanding your needs. It may also give them a better insight into your situation, so they can offer you more effective support and understanding. If you feel uncomfortable talking to someone you know, you might like to consider talking in confidence to an advisor at SANELINE on 0845 767 8000. This helpline is available to anyone experiencing mental health issues.
No More Panic also offers comprehensive information, support and advice via its website, while First Steps offer further sources of help, including telephone counselling, support groups and a helpline, available on 0845 120 2916.
Updated: 10/06/2010
Question answered by SANE
