My anxiety has come back

[danielle89]

I was diagnosed with Agoraphobia about 5 years ago, but for the last 3 years life has been pretty great. A few panics here and there and general worry but nothing like it was before. But within the last few weeks my symptoms have returned, almost like I have stopped taking my meds or like them have stopped working. I dont know what to do, is it possiable for my meds to stop working or for my body to become uneffected by my meds since it has been 5 years since I have been taking them? I take 75mg effexor Xr, I try to use the skills I learned in therpy to rid myself of the uneasy feelings with breathing and such, and I have even given advice to people over the years that developed anxiety. I dont know what to do, should I go to the doctor? I dont even feel good at home and thats always been my safe place, Im afraid ill fall back into depression if my life is altered anymore by this anxiety.

[Varrian]

It's definitely possible to reject medications/prescriptions that have been working for years. If the doctors have helped you in the past, I would definitely revisit them about this.

Does a glass of wine help to soothe your anxiety? If you're comfortable with drinking, it might help as a stop-gap measure until a far better solution can be found. Some of my oldest friends have only been able to beat out stage fright, etc. with the assistance of a small touch of liquid courage - and never went further than that.

Best wishes - is the agoraphobia eased by being around others?

[roiben]

^ I wouldn't advise drinking as a way of coping with anxiety - it is no better than SI, too addictive and too harmful in the long run.

For the OP - If you symptoms have changed or are returning, it is a good idea to speak to your GP, as otherwise they will assume you are fine. It might be that they can direct you to services to help, perhaps a refresher on the coping skills and a review of your medication.

Do be gentle with yourself.

Roiben x