Afraid of medication

[Macchiato]

I feel I Need it bc the depression and anxiety I deal with is overwhelming.

For those on meds , how did you get over the fear? I just wanna cry all the time, I feel I'm always anxious, Don't want to eat. I also feel like there's more than anxiety/depsson at play. I'm afraid of passing out or having a heart attack bc of the immense anxiety I feel.

I'm afraid of being a bit more mentally ill. I'm not sure how to cope or come to term with needing meds.

I'm afraid, once I take them it may not work, mess me up mentally to the point I'm not myself or ill have horrid side effcts.

 

[AlexB23]

I feel I Need it bc the depression and anxiety I deal with is overwhelming.

For those on meds , how did you get over the fear? I just wanna cry all the time, I feel I'm always anxious, Don't want to eat. I also feel like there's more than anxiety/depsson at play. I'm afraid of passing out or having a heart attack bc of the immense anxiety I feel.

I'm afraid of being a bit more mentally ill. I'm not sure how to cope or come to term with needing meds.

I'm afraid, once I take them it may not work, mess me up mentally to the point I'm not myself or ill have horrid side effcts.

I understand that you are dealing with overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, and fear, as I have gone through the latter two (luckily not depression). It's important to remember that you are not alone in your struggle. Here are some Biblical verses and medical/psychological perspectives that may help:

1. God is with you in your struggles, and He cares for you deeply. (Isaiah 43:2-3, Psalm 147:3)

From a medical/psychological perspective, it's important to recognize that anxiety and depression are complex conditions that can affect various aspects of your physical and emotional well-being. It's not a sign of weakness or mental illness to seek help from medication, therapy, or both.

2. Anxiety and fear can have physical manifestations, including increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and feelings of dizziness or passing out. (Matthew 14:26-33)

Medically speaking, anxiety can cause the body to produce stress hormones, which can lead to various physical symptoms. These symptoms include rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and feelings of dizziness or fainting. It's essential to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider, as they can assess the potential risks and benefits of medication and work with you to find a treatment plan that addresses both your emotional and physical needs.

3. Seeking professional help does not make you any less of a person or take away your identity. (Psalm 46:1, Psalm 30:5)

From a psychological perspective, it's essential to understand that seeking help for your mental health does not define you as a person. You are more than your struggles with anxiety and depression. Your identity is rooted in being a unique creation of God, and seeking professional help is an act of self-care and love.

4. Medication can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety and depression symptoms. (Proverbs 17:22)

Medically speaking, medication can help manage the chemical imbalances in your brain that contribute to anxiety and depression. With proper dosage and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider, you can experience relief from symptoms and improved overall well-being.

5. It's essential to approach medication with an open mind but also realistic expectations. (Ephesians 4:23-24)

From a psychological perspective, it's crucial to remember that medication may not work for everyone or provide an immediate cure. It may take time and adjustment to find the right dosage, medication, or combination of treatments that works best for you. Approach this process with an open mind but also realistic expectations, knowing that it may be a journey that requires patience and perseverance.

6. Lastly, consider incorporating practices like prayer, meditation, or mindfulness into your daily routine as additional coping strategies. (Matthew 6:34, Psalm 119:25)

From a Biblical perspective, turning to God in prayer and meditation can provide comfort, peace, and strength during challenging times. Additionally, mindfulness practices like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety symptoms and improve overall well-being. Remember that seeking professional help is not a replacement for these spiritual practices but rather an additional tool in your journey towards healing and wholeness.

 

[Macchiato]

I understand that you are dealing with overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, and fear, as I have gone through the latter two (luckily not depression). It's important to remember that you are not alone in your struggle. Here are some Biblical verses and medical/psychological perspectives that may help:

1. God is with you in your struggles, and He cares for you deeply. (Isaiah 43:2-3, Psalm 147:3)

From a medical/psychological perspective, it's important to recognize that anxiety and depression are complex conditions that can affect various aspects of your physical and emotional well-being. It's not a sign of weakness or mental illness to seek help from medication, therapy, or both.

2. Anxiety and fear can have physical manifestations, including increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and feelings of dizziness or passing out. (Matthew 14:26-33)

Medically speaking, anxiety can cause the body to produce stress hormones, which can lead to various physical symptoms. These symptoms include rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and feelings of dizziness or fainting. It's essential to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider, as they can assess the potential risks and benefits of medication and work with you to find a treatment plan that addresses both your emotional and physical needs.

3. Seeking professional help does not make you any less of a person or take away your identity. (Psalm 46:1, Psalm 30:5)

From a psychological perspective, it's essential to understand that seeking help for your mental health does not define you as a person. You are more than your struggles with anxiety and depression. Your identity is rooted in being a unique creation of God, and seeking professional help is an act of self-care and love.

4. Medication can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety and depression symptoms. (Proverbs 17:22)

Medically speaking, medication can help manage the chemical imbalances in your brain that contribute to anxiety and depression. With proper dosage and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider, you can experience relief from symptoms and improved overall well-being.

5. It's essential to approach medication with an open mind but also realistic expectations. (Ephesians 4:23-24)

From a psychological perspective, it's crucial to remember that medication may not work for everyone or provide an immediate cure. It may take time and adjustment to find the right dosage, medication, or combination of treatments that works best for you. Approach this process with an open mind but also realistic expectations, knowing that it may be a journey that requires patience and perseverance.

6. Lastly, consider incorporating practices like prayer, meditation, or mindfulness into your daily routine as additional coping strategies. (Matthew 6:34, Psalm 119:25)

From a Biblical perspective, turning to God in prayer and meditation can provide comfort, peace, and strength during challenging times. Additionally, mindfulness practices like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety symptoms and improve overall well-being. Remember that seeking professional help is not a replacement for these spiritual practices but rather an additional tool in your journey towards healing and wholeness.

Thank you. I'm still afraid to take the plunge

 

[AlexB23]

Thank you. I'm still afraid to take the plunge

You are welcome. I'd say, well, just do it, take the plunge and get the meds, my friend. God is our refuge, my friend, as stated in Psalm 46. If worse comes to worse, the doctors can slowly reduce your dosage and take you off the medication. Also, there are verses about trusting medications (well, doctors).

Catholic Bible Analysis - Sirach 38:1-15 & Matthew 9:12

Hello folks. This will be the first time that this Bible analysis series will cover a Catholic book. Today we will be discussing the importance of medical doctors, as stated in Matthew 9:12 and Sirach 38:1-15. Date May 8, 2024 Verse Matthew 9:12 (NIV): "On hearing this, Jesus said, ‘It is...

www.christianforums.com

Date	May 1, 2024
Verse	Matthew 6:25-34 (ESV): "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Explanation	These three passages from the Bible offer comfort and reassurance to those who are anxious or fearful. Let's examine each passage in turn: 1. Matthew 6:25-34: In this passage, Jesus is teaching his disciples not to be anxious about their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and safety. He reminds them that God takes care of even the smallest creatures, and that they are of greater value than these creatures. Jesus urges them to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and promises that all their needs will be met. This passage is relevant to our modern anxiety in several ways. We live in a world where there is an abundance of news about conflicts, natural disasters, and other sources of fear and uncertainty. We may also face everyday stressors related to work, relationships, and finances. Jesus' message is that we should trust in God's provision and focus on seeking His kingdom and righteousness, rather than being consumed by our anxieties about the future. 2. Isaiah 41:10: In this passage, God speaks to His people through the prophet Isaiah, reassuring them that He is with them and will strengthen, help, and uphold them. This passage is especially relevant for those who are facing significant challenges or fears, whether related to personal struggles or larger global events. God's promise to be a present help in trouble is a source of comfort and encouragement, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles. 3. Psalm 46:1-2: This passage from the book of Psalms is a powerful reminder that God is our refuge and strength, and that we can find peace and security in Him, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. The image of God as a refuge and strength is a powerful one, and it is a reminder that we can find comfort and security in Him, no matter what is happening in the world around us.

 

[returntosender]

I feel I Need it bc the depression and anxiety I deal with is overwhelming.

For those on meds , how did you get over the fear? I just wanna cry all the time, I feel I'm always anxious, Don't want to eat. I also feel like there's more than anxiety/depsson at play. I'm afraid of passing out or having a heart attack bc of the immense anxiety I feel.

I'm afraid of being a bit more mentally ill. I'm not sure how to cope or come to term with needing meds.

I'm afraid, once I take them it may not work, mess me up mentally to the point I'm not myself or ill have horrid side effcts.

I've taken anti depressants over the years. They can be a big help. Don't be afraid. If there is any problem you can try a different one. Your doc knows your history and will keep it in mind. The meds are very helpful. As much good as they do any side affects out ways. I can remember only 2 side affects 1;for two different meds and you will be aware and can alert your doc. They are not serious. I hope you will try it. You will feel much better. God bless you and give you peace over it.

 

[returntosender]

I think you're scaring your self by thinking to long on it. Just get the meds and take one without thinking so much on it. Then do it again and again unless they've improved they take a few weeks to kick in. If when they kick in you don't like it, quit. Best to give it a try. What can it hurt. You can stop anytime. Your fear is unreasonable and you're causing it my mulling it over so long. How CAN YOU BE AFRAID OF SOMETHING YOU'VE never tried. Man up,

 

[dms1972]

I agree with the above post, its best not to overthink it.

Well prescribed and at a low initial dose gradually increased to the correct level, they won't mess you up mentally. SSRI antidepressants can take a number of weeks till they are working fully. Some anti-depressant medications such as Fluoxetine have a longer half-life. Ideally for daily use they should have a half-life of around 24 -36 hours. However if they have a longer half-life, then you can gradually lower the dosage once you've improved. Half life does vary a little between people, deepening on age, sex and perhaps other factors. Of the SSRI's Fluoxetine (Prozac) has one of the longest half-lifes. A longer half-life medication can be helpful when stopping.

Here is some more info on anti-depressant half-life.

https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Approximate-half-lives-of-antidepressants_tbl1_304534875

I think it usually recommended they be prescribed as an adjunct along with speaking to a counsellor.

 

[soldier of light]

I feel I Need it bc the depression and anxiety I deal with is overwhelming.

For those on meds , how did you get over the fear? I just wanna cry all the time, I feel I'm always anxious, Don't want to eat. I also feel like there's more than anxiety/depsson at play. I'm afraid of passing out or having a heart attack bc of the immense anxiety I feel.

I'm afraid of being a bit more mentally ill. I'm not sure how to cope or come to term with needing meds.

I'm afraid, once I take them it may not work, mess me up mentally to the point I'm not myself or ill have horrid side effcts.

It's ok to take meds. It won't chase God away.

 

[Macchiato]

It's ok to take meds. It won't chase God away.

I know. Im just scared and its hard for me to keep pushing through in my own strength. I have 5 months till i graduate i should be excited and happy but im in the throws of mental mess.

 

[soldier of light]

I know. Im just scared and its hard for me to keep pushing through in my own strength. I have 5 months till i graduate i should be excited and happy but im in the throws of mental mess.

Praying and singing a song in my heart helps sometimes. I'll pray for you my friend

 

[dms1972]

I know. Im just scared and its hard for me to keep pushing through in my own strength. I have 5 months till i graduate i should be excited and happy but im in the throws of mental mess.

I wasn't at university. I had some difficulties at home and at work. The nature of my job meant I couldn't get any private space most of the day, as I worked in a busy shop. My boss wouldn't let me have time off either. Its a good while ago, but at first I thought about taking meds. This isn't my fault, why should I be the one who has to take a medication? But I wasn't coping well with some of the stresses in my life. So eventually I agreed to take them. I was taking on a lot of responsibility at times for things that I wasn't responsible for. If you can find someone you can talk to and unburden some of your concerns to it helps. Someone with good common sense, and who knows how to listen. You have to sometimes be a bit "selfish" too, ie. other people's problems are their own problems to solve. Its not really being selfish, its just maintaining your boundaries with others. When things are good with you again you can help a friend or sometimes a stranger, as you feel led. Each has to carry their own load though.

What is it you are studying?

 

[Macchiato]

I wasn't at university. I had some difficulties at home and at work. The nature of my job meant I couldn't get any private space most of the day, as I worked in a busy shop. My boss wouldn't let me have time off either. Its a good while ago, but at first I thought about taking meds. This isn't my fault, why should I be the one who has to take a medication? But I wasn't coping well with some of the stresses in my life. So eventually I agreed to take them. I was taking on a lot of responsibility at times for things that I wasn't responsible for. If you can find someone you can talk to and unburden some of your concerns to it helps. Someone with good common sense, and who knows how to listen. You have to sometimes be a bit "selfish" too, ie. other people's problems are their own problems to solve. Its not really being selfish, its just maintaining your boundaries with others. When things are good with you again you can help a friend or sometimes a stranger, as you feel led. Each has to carry their own load though.

What is it you are studying?

Im in school for nursing.

 

[Macchiato]

I think you're scaring your self by thinking to long on it. Just get the meds and take one without thinking so much on it. Then do it again and again unless they've improved they take a few weeks to kick in. If when they kick in you don't like it, quit. Best to give it a try. What can it hurt. You can stop anytime. Your fear is unreasonable and you're causing it my mulling it over so long. How CAN YOU BE AFRAID OF SOMETHING YOU'VE never tried. Man up,

Its the stories i read thats a bit scary lol but ill try eventually.

 

[Hvizsgyak]

Its the stories i read thats a bit scary lol but ill try eventually.

I think alot of those stories are either over-exaggerated or happen to a very small minority of people. I've been on LexaPro for 20 years and it has helped me tremendously. I did not want to deal with my mood swings and depression any more. I wanted to feel happy for more than a day or two. I wanted to live a somewhat normal life. I never worried about side effects, I wanted help. It has worked for me ever since then.