Stressful side effects
Question
Recently I've been experiencing a lot of stress because I work in a very pressurised environment. My Grandfather, who I'm very close to, is really ill and, on top of it all, my car has been broken into on more than one occasion.
I went to see my doctor about it and he prescribed fluoxetine. I've been taking it for three weeks but I'm still struggling because I'm suffering from headaches, the shakes, a dry mouth, etc.
When I told my doctor this he changed my prescription to Citolpram but I'm unsure about changing medication and sometimes I'm unsure about whether I should be taking antidepressants at all. I want to start trying for a baby soon, which isn't recommended on either drug, and it worries me that the drugs might just be masking my feelings rather than actually doing any good.
I just don't know what to do. I think my job is at risk because I've been off for a while and I don't know how to sort it all out. Please help me.
Answer
Feelings of worry and stress can be difficult to cope with, especially when they are a constant part of your life. Stress and anxiety can have various causes and can be a result of pressures in a particular area of someone's life. Tackling the causes of this pressure could help relieve the stress.
You may find it beneficial to spend some time looking at possible reasons for why you feel the way you do. If underlying emotional problems are triggering your stress, you may need some help in dealing with them. For example, being a victim of any crime can be very hard to deal with. It is completely understandable that you've been feeling so stressed after your car was broken into. The effects of a crime may last for some time, but it is unlikely they will stay long-term. Talking about these feelings may make you feel better. If you'd like to talk to someone in confidence about what's happened to you and how it's made you feel you can call Victim Support on 0845 30 30 900.
Stress and anxiety can also be part of a condition, such as depression. If you feel depression might be a factor, you may want to consider discussing this further with your doctor (GP). Mind also produce a Guide to Managing Stress, which you may find useful for dealing with stress on a day-to-day basis. Some people find simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and taking time out for themselves very helpful.
It is good to hear you have consulted your GP about how you're feeling. Both fluoxatine (Prozac) and Citalopram are antidepressants, which are also prescribed to help ease symptoms of anxiety. From what you say, it sounds as if you have experienced some of the common side effects of fluoxatine, but it's worth knowing that it can take up to six weeks for any antidepressant to begin having a significant impact and for side effects to subside. Although it's understandable you're unsure about changing your medication it's important you don't stop taking the antidepressants abruptly, because doing so can trigger discontinuation symptoms.
Realistically, antidepressants only form about 10% of treatment for depression or anxiety. Talking about how you feel to a close friend or relative would allow you to share your feelings and identify your needs. It may also provide your friends or family with a better insight into your situation, so they can offer effective support and understanding. But sometimes it is easier to speak to someone we don't know. This is where talking treatments can prove very useful.
Speaking to a counsellor or therapist can be helpful, as they will be able to help you work through your issues in a confidential, non-judgemental environment. Your GP should be able to give more specific advice on the kinds of talking treatments, such as counselling, or alternative medications such as natural remedies that might work for you. You can also discuss your concerns about conception whilst taking antidepressants.
As an alternative, you might like to consider talking in confidence and without judgement to SANELINE on 0845 767 8000.
Good answer? Bad info? Want to tell us what you think? We'd really like to hear what you've got to say about this answer so please click here to take the survey. Your feedback is confidential and as anonymous as you like.
Question answered by SANE
Print this page Email this page to a friend Add to favourites
