Posted by Mimi on May 27, 2003, at 14:14:47
In reply to Re: Social Phobia » deanobravo, posted by froggyanna on May 27, 2003, at 12:18:50
Froggyanna and Deanobravo,
One word: Buspar (for social phobias). Of course I had to deal with 25+ years of double depression before I even got to the anxiety problem. I tried all alternative therapies except bodywork (massage,etc.). I tried homeopathy for 2 years (nada); I saw a nutritionist for my symptoms (nada); I bought a lightbox (some improvement); I exercised daily; I spent over $10,000 on psychotherapy; I went to support groups for depressives; I lived my life as a loner, etc.
I hit my bottom when I had ECT treatments two years ago. For the first time in my life I am happy and comfortable in social situations. In effect, I am cured although I paid a very big price by not getting treatment sooner. I'm in my early 40's, engaged for the first time to a wonderful man, am comfortable in workplace settings or at any party, and am happy with my social status as a "mentally disabled" woman who lives in disabled and elderly housing.
I am cured but I do take low doses of 5 different meds to function as a normal person. Meds have made all the difference to me. I used to be brilliant but emotionally dysfunctional. I've found that emotional IQ and emotional health are much more integral to success and well-being than intellectual IQ and/or just physical fitness.
I was highly resistant to medication for many reasons. The meds that keep me healthy and in balance are Seroquel, Celexa, Pamelor, Buspar and Ambien (for sleep). My doses are so low they are off the charts for someone my age. Never mind, do what suits you. I must add that it did take me some years to find the most helpful mix of meds.
My delay in getting treatment cost me most of the productivity and some of the social relationships of the first half of my life. Now, I would never not take meds. For me, they are the answer. I know that is also true for others.
If you can just get away with taking Buspar for social phobia/anxiety, you are indeed a lucky soul. Best of luck and good skill in doing your research, Dean.
Keep me posted. This site has been my saving grace during a recent new med trial. I am so happy to go back to my old med regimen.
Mimi
poster:Mimi
thread:229092
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030525/msgs/229475.html