[I_DID_IT]

So yes, I went slow and took about 4-5 months to come off the 10 mg dosage.

[Hopeful 285]

Hi Skyer,
I am glad to hear that your depression is getting better. I know what you mean by not trusting it.
I saw an expression of your passion when you were so steadfast in giving your wonderful advice to Schootchu.
You passion is still there. It will take time for you to get back into full swing.

Thanks for asking how I'm doing. I have felt better yesterday and today. I don't need my cane. I'm not falling. This is so weird. I feel normal again. I did this for 3 days the week before last.


Hi Elizabethmaria,
I know what you mean about the tv. I've had the same issues. It also happens when I'm using the computer. I read this somewhere that this can happen. I think we have had a lot of the same things.
I never received your email. Either you can email me again or ask the question on the forum if you want. clmackan@aol.com
Recovery time in Hawaii, etc sounds good.
It would be nice to meet everyone. You never know what the future will bring. Who knows, Oprah, 60 Minutes,........
I wonder about some of the people that were on this forum regularly and went off. Are they better, worse?
So many people are misdiagnosed. My sister inlaw was on an antidepressant and got a bleeding disorder. There was a problem with her platelets. (this is a known SSRI side effect) It was a mystery to us. She passed away 3 years ago. I believe it was her medication.
I mentioned this in a earlier posting but I know it was her medication.
I didn't even have her on my mind when I heard that small inner voice say to me that she died from her medication. I believe it was an angel.
I have had experiences like this in the past and they haved turned out to be true and in a couple of instances it saved peoples lives. I give all the credit to God. He sends messengers and he talks to us Himself.

Lisa,
Thanks for the detox link. I was thinking about doing this. It came at a good time. I hope you are doing well.

Everyone, thanks for caring and sharing.

[tavee]

I_did_it- Is This Sarita???? It Sounds Like U Sarita??


Please Let Me Know

Tavee

[elizabethmaria]

Hi!
Hopeful - I just sent you another e-mail, sorry that I didn't send it right away.. but I hope you get it this time.. Yes, it happens to me on the computer too - right now in fact! Do you think we will ever be less sensitive that way? I am so sorry to hear what a terrible time you have had -- I pray that you will be able to walk soon without a cane, ..... and all of us here better..
Skyer, I'm so glad that you are feeling less depressed!!!!!!!! I hope it lasts, but it's just wait and see now... Did you notice any less depersonalization with less tv, or symptoms? it is sooo powerful for me, it's amazing that it doesn't affect some people - I actually have to turn my head and shut one eye sometimes on the computer...
I am at 3.5 months right now Skyer, seems like years though! I don't know if it's just after my period, but I have been sooo weak, and then I get depressed and really really low, crying so much, and then a few hours later, it will be gone... maybe it is period related though, but it was bad this time -- I get so weak, that it takes me like 4 hours to get up, take a shower, eat breakfast, and get ready to go outside... the shower ends up going cold because I get too weak to finish rinsing, even though there was tons of hot water -- then, 2 hours later, it'll feel almost normal... so strange.. happens at odd times of the day, one hour it's fine, the next is too weak to eat food...! Arg!

How are you Tavee?? I love your posts -- I think you have enough passion and excitement for all of us who are feeling apathetic and low! ... I hope things are going well for you tonight!
And everyone else too!!!
blessings,
Elizabethmarie

[elizabethmaria]

Hello again,

I was just wondering -- does anyone know of anything we should do for the dystonia symptoms? Is there anything we Can do, or is it just damaged that way --? I haven't really found anything, except like botulism injections for tense muscles, but that doesn't sound fun... if anyone has any tips, could you help? Hopeful, do you do anything for it?
love, Elizabethmarie

[Hopeful 285]

Hi everyone,
I went to the doctor today and she said that my thyroid is large. I found where there is a connection between adrenal burnout and the thyroid gland.
Isn't there a connection with adrenal burnout and SSRI's?
That could expain the weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, apathy, etc. If you don't get the adrenaline rush because of the fatigue, you won't get enthusiastic.
I read that progesterone cream, coconut oil, pregnenalone, DHEA, and vitamins listed below. I don't know what is safe for us. Any input?
I also read you can't just treat the thyroid. Has anyone had their hormones tested?

CAUSES OF ADRENAL BURNOUT

Excessive stress, an important cause of burnout, can be from many sources. Chemical toxicity and nutritional depletion are among the physical causes. Mental, emotional or spiritual stress may be a major factor. Financial, family or other stress may also contribute to burnout.
Any excessive stress can deplete the adrenals, especially when weakened by poor nutrition. Working too much or emotional stress are two common causes. Excessive stimulation, especially for children, is another cause. Fast-paced, high-stress, fear-based lifestyles are a sure prescription for adrenal burnout.
Other stressors in cities are noise and electromagnetic pollution. Cell phones, microwave towers and appliances like televisions, microwave ovens and computers give off strong electrical fields.
Nutritional Deficiencies are a common cause. When under stress, the need for nutrients is much greater. Carbohydrates, when excessive in the diet, stress the adrenals. Diets low in protein may also create deficiencies. Inadequate or poor quality water affects oxygenation of the tissues.
Most diets are low in nutrients required by the adrenals. These include B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, C and E, manganese, zinc, chromium, selenium and other and other trace elements. The reasons for this begin with how food is grown. Most food is grown on depleted soils. Processing and refining further deplete nutrients. Habits like eating in the car or while on the run further diminish the value derived from food. Also, allergic reactions to foods such as wheat and dairy products can damage the intestines and reduce the absorption of nutrients.
Toxic metals and chemicals often play a large role in adrenal burnout. Everyone is exposed to thousands of chemicals in the air, the water and the food. Other sources are dental materials and skin contact with chemicals. Over-the-counter and prescribed medications add to the bodyís toxic load.
Toxins may also be generated within the body due to impaired digestion. When food is not properly digested, it either ferments or rots in the intestines, producing many harmful substances that are absorbed into the body.
Chronic infections, of dental and other origin, also contribute to the toxic load. In most people, the organs of elimination do not function at an optimal level. As a result, toxic substances slowly build up in the body, leading to adrenal burnout and many other health conditions.
Stimulants damage the adrenal glands. They whip the adrenals. Caffeine, sugar and alcohol are among the most common stimulants. Less obvious stimulants include anger, rage, arguing, hatred, loud music, the news and movies full of suspense. Vigorous exercise, sexual preoccupations and other thrills may also act as stimulants.
Stimulant use, however, can also be a result of adrenal burnout. Stimulants are attractive to one in burnout to provide temporary energy. This is an appeal of the drug culture, both legal and recreational.
Unhealthy responses to stress are another cause of adrenal burnout. These include habits of worrying, or becoming angry or afraid. Donít worry, be happy is a great prescription for adrenal burnout. This applies particularly to high strung, nervous individuals and those with very active minds, as they are especially prone to adrenal burnout.
Many children today are born with weak adrenals due to their parentsí nutritional deficiencies. By age three or four, these children are in burnout. They are often sick, depressed and have difficulty in school.


SYMPTOMS OF ADRENAL BURNOUT

Low blood sugar and allergies result from low levels of cortisol. Joint and muscle pain are other common symptoms. Multiple chemical sensitivity is an extreme allergic condition associated with adrenal burnout. Low blood pressure and low body temperature may also result. Later blood pressure rises as toxic substances build up in the arteries and kidneys.
Elevated copper and low zinc related to adrenal burnout impair the immune system. Chronic infections may develop. The stage is also set for the development of degenerative conditions. Cancer, heart disease, Parkinsonís and Alzheimerís diseases are end-stage results of toxic accumulation and energy depletion.
Often secondary to adrenal exhaustion are glandular imbalances, hyperthyroidism and more often hypothyroidism. The adrenal glands produce estrogen and progesterone. They are the main source of these hormones after menopause. Premenstrual syndrome and hot flashes often have to do with weakened adrenal glands.
Depression and apathy are common in adrenal burnout. One may lose interest in friends, family and work. Unsure if there is energy to get through the day, anxiety may occur. Irritability is common as one is less able to handle even minor stress. Unfortunately, many with adrenal burnout function on anger and resentment. These act as adrenal stimulants, providing a negative energy with which to function. Most of the world, in fact, functions on the negative energy of anger.
Compulsiveness and OCD is associated with adrenal burnout. One may become addicted or very attracted to excessive exercise, sex, loud music or other forms of excitement. The unconscious goal is always the same, to stimulate the adrenals into activity.
When the adrenals are weak, copper builds up in the body. Elevated copper enhances emotions. Panic attacks, bipolar disorder, mood swings and schizophrenia are related to copper imbalance. As oneís energy level declines, other toxic metals build up as well. Mercury, cadmium, lead, arsenic, beryllium and others contribute to hundreds of physical and emotional symptoms.



http://www.thyroid-info.com/articles/shamesadrenal.htm

Latest Update: March 15, 2007
SEARCH SITE

The Adrenal/Thyroid Connection
A Look at the Relationship, with Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, Authors of Thyroid Power


by Mary Shomon

Mary Shomon: Is there an important adrenal component to thyroid optimization?

Drs. Shames: If you have been prescribed the proper amounts of thyroid hormone -- perhaps with additional substances to balance your reproductive system -- and all is working well, you do not need attention to your adrenal glands. If, on the other hand, you are not doing as well as you'd like, and especially if your symptoms have been somewhat atypical all along, then other factors need to be considered. One of the most important additional factors to take into account is your adrenal hormone level.

Mary Shomon: What do the adrenal glands actually do?

Drs. Shames:Your adrenal glands are two tiny pyramid-shaped pieces of tissue situated right above each kidney. Their job is to produce and release, when appropriate, certain regulatory hormones and chemical messengers.

Adrenaline is manufactured in the interior of the adrenal gland, in an area called the adrenal medulla. The adrenal medulla is stimulated directly by nerves from the sympathetic portion of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates fight or flight.

The human body is organized so as to be able to respond immediately to threatening situations by generating a tremendous amount of energy in a hurry, which enables the person to run away quickly, or face the threat and fight it with a massive influx of chemical support. These chemicals increase blood pressure, heart rate, and blood flow to muscles, while mobilizing sugar to burn. Nerve impulses from the brain cause the release of adrenaline from the adrenal gland, which helps you react appropriately in immediate short-term stress situations (the "fight or flight" response).

Cortisol, the another chemical from the adrenal gland, is made in the exterior portion of the gland, called the adrenal cortex. Cortisol, commonly called hydrocortisone, is the most abundant -- and one of the most important -- of many adrenal cortex hormones. Cortisol helps you handle longer-term stress situations.

In addition to helping you handle stress, these two primary adrenal hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, along with others similarly produced, help control body fluid balance, blood pressure, blood sugar, and other central metabolic functions

Some of you may have knowledge of this, but this is new to me. I wanted to post it in case someone else may recognize problems.

Have a good evening,

[elizabethmaria]

Thanks Hopeful for those articles --!
I know that we are probably all suffering from adrenal burnout -- and I have an older friend (who has 9 children! 7 boys, that will do it .. who had adrenal burnout and recovered well (she was in bed for a few months, doctors thought she was depressed, but just was completely burned out)-- she says you shouldn't take any drugs to stimulate your adrenals, like some people want you to do... but be very, very careful, rest lots, and eat lots and lots of healthy food and protein -- they will come back on their own, but adding more meds, stimulants, etc.. just exhausts them more...

Prayer and quiet holy meditation are a must, as well, every day... lifesaver for all...

Also, sometimes supplements, herbs, etc. can give you thyroid problems-- when I first was diagnosed with CFS, they put be on vit. B-12 injections... which in turn gave me hyperthyroidism ... it took a number of months for my thyroid to calm down, and recover from that -- but I strongly believe that for most all of us, unless there is a previously diagnosed serious problem, it is best not to take Anything, except very healthy food and water, and let our bodies heal themselves...
I was also given ginko bilboa for adrenal fatigue, ... which did the exact opposite, by stimulating them when they needed to rest, made everything much Worse and set back so far with CFS!! Also given excess vit. C that was supposed to help, ended up becoming anemic, and then scurvy when off of it! I've finally learned that my body knows what to do - there are no fast fixes ...
Gosh, I've just turned 28, and feel like I've spent the last 3 years in the doctor's offices...!! I don't know, everyone is different, but I've been through so much health stuff in the last few years, that is what I have learned... I hope it helps someone ...
take care,
Elizabethmarie

[skyer]

Yes, thank you, Hopeful for the information. I feel like I have Adrenal Fatigue. It takes me so long to get out of bed and get going in the morning. I also have the depression, apathy and cannot handle stress at all! If my fiance gets worked up about anything I have to leave the room or I feel this weird internal trembling I've never had before....as if I'm going to have a nervous breakdown. He knows this now and so he's done a very good job trying to keep the peace. I think my cortisol is better, though. I had all the anxiety, sweats and low blood sugar issues for the first three months and all of that has cleared up now. What did they say about your thyroid?

Elizabethmaria: I'm so sorry you've been sick for so long...sounds like doctors just made matters worse for you. I'm doing the same thing you are...not taking anything! I really feel like my body will just do it on its own. it's hard, though, just making it through the day. It's so sunny out right now and I went outside for a bit but had to come back in because I feel like a drug addict that can't handle the bright sun. I also feel so brain numb and lost when I'm outside. It scares me, really. And because of my eye issues that I've had for a few weeks I cannot wear my contacts and so with glasses I can't wear sunglasses. I feel like a mess! Soooo many of my physical problems have healed, but ever since the emotional ones hit...it's hard to function.

Best to all...

[elizabethmaria]

Hi Skyer,
Are you making sure that you get at least 30min of natural sunshine (or cloudshine every day? Even though we have light sensitivity, it's vital for brain function, and hormones, adrenal, etc.. that's what they told me w/ chronic fatigue at the hospital too, when I was REally sensitive to light... you have to get some every day.. no sunglasses
Are you getting plenty of daily exercise too? soo important, even if it's just jogging in place in the evening... or going for a good walk, even if weak - shouldn't ever miss a day... helps regulate sleep/wake, keeps everything flowing. I remember even when I couldn't really walk the first week or so, I would force myself out for a little jog, crazy, but I knew from CFS that in 48 hours of inactivity, you start breaking down muscle, and 8 days of inactivity results in severe muscle loss -- fast huh? 14 days was almost total muscle tone loss, so it's so important to keep up...

thank you for the help, and everything ...
lots of love,
Elizabethmarie

[Hopeful 285]

Skyer,
Does your back hurt right above the kidneys? I read that some people have this when they have adrenal burn out. My back hurts constantly. I take Tylenol and it doesn't help at all.

Concerning your inner trembling, do you get periodic bursts of electricity and feel fidgety and feel driven to move about, but you just sit there and it is all internal?

I have an energy that builds in me and I jerk. This sometimes is brought on by stress. It was really bad when my bp was up. I don't think that everyone jerks but they can still have that pent up energy.

They took blood to check my thyroid and she is on vacation next week. So it may be a week and a half before I find out the results.
I was told my thyroid was enlarged by another doctor a while back and she said it was only slightly elevated.
This doctor said that even mild elevation can cause you to feel very bad and make you have strange symptoms.
I read something last night about chronic fatigue. If you have high blood pressure, you can't have chronic fatigue. People with chronic fatigue typically have low blood pressure.
I had been fighting high blood pressure. When I started taking the magnesium, my blood pressure became normal. I know I am repeating myself but they give this extensively to pregnant women for high blood pressure.


Hi Elizabethmaria,
I am so sorry you had to learn about chronic fatigue the hard way. I have a question. Do you know if you can a adrenal problems if you don't have the chronic fatigue? I don't think I have the chronic fatigue because my blood pressure had been high for a while.

I really appreciate that last posting. I was thinking about taking more supplements. I went to the library today and got a some books on natural supplements. I was thinking about taking something to stimulate the adrenals.

When I get Dr. Breggin's books, I will check to see if he has written anything on dystonia treatment. I will let you know.

Take care,

[skyer]

Elizabethmaria: It's funny...I wrote that email about running back into my house away from the sun...but later decided to go out to the store with my fiance and then we took a long walk. When I got back I saw your post about getting out and getting sunshine! I did help! I feel a lot better. I live in Oregon, so we don't see a lot of sunshine during the winter. But we do get a lot in the spring and summer and even fall, despite what people think. It worked out that I went through the worst of the physical withdrawals during bad weather...month four I could barely leave my house so I didn't care about the weather. So...yeah...feel better...but I sure do have depersonalization still. If that were to go away, I would be in good shape. I'm not making it up...it's there and if you haven't had it then you have no idea how hard it is to funtion. I think part of my depression is because I still have it. I just know it has something to do with my sleep cycle (dreams) and until the weird dreams go away I'll be stuck with the depersonalization (derealization, I guess). The very night I got the weird dreams I woke up with depersonalization. It's better, but not enough at all.

Hopeful: I don't think I have CFS, either. I read the symptoms and though it sounds similar, I can clean my house and do chores just fine. I'm just pretty tired in the morning. But, I mean, our bodies have been through so much and they are healing. So, that takes a toll on the immune system, thus we are tired a lot. I did like Elizabethmaria's advice about keeping schedule and staying healthy to avoid getting it. I don't allow myself to nap and I keep routine. I also feel strong enough now to do my pilates/yoga DVD program again. Sounds like you don't have CFS, either. That's interesting about the blood pressure relationship. So sorry you high blood pressure because of this stupid drug. I think mine is OK. Also, I had that back pain around/above my kidneys during month 3 and maybe 4, but haven't had it since. Oh, also...do you have Ann Blake Tracy's book? I thought about you because I was skimming through it again the other day and she has a section with quotes from people who had adverse effects on the SSRI's and one quote was something like, "my legs would just give out under me." You're not alone with that one!

I'm 5 and a half months off 10mg Lexapro cold turkey.

[Hopeful 285]

Skyer,
I'm glad to hear you don't have the chronic fatigue. It is nice to know how to avoid it thanks to Elizabethmarie.
Thanks for mentioning Ann Blake Tracy's book. I'll look it up on Amazon. You can get such great deals there.
I am having a little break in my symptoms again except for this terrible back pain.
I'm not falling now. This comes and goes. I fall like I've been shot. Something must misfiring in my brain. When I'm in this mode, I fall multiple times for days in a row and then I will think I'm better and it comes again. It is really weird.
I would like to read about this. I am wondering if this will get better or if it will come and go indefinately.
When I was on lex for about 1 1/2 years, I would intermittently walk with a strange deep dip. Doctors or I didn't know it was the lex so I took it 6 more months while getting all kinds of tests. In retrospect, I should have figured it out. The lex just seemed so mild and I thought it was doing a great job.
Here I go repeating myself again. I guess I do it just in case someone else that needs to know others are experiencing this are checking out the site and miss the earlier posts.
Sorry so long again.

Take care of yourself,

[lisabb]

Hairyarmadillo, small world. I teach just down the road at Clay City.

I just order a detox program. (It is a company that I have order a colon cleaning product from. It is a mild product.) It is a slow working system - takes 3 months. I will let you know how it goes. It does say that during the first couple of days you might experience dizziness, fatigue, headaches as the toxins are starting to leave your body - hey sounds familiar!!

When are we going to Hawaii???? I am ready!

Lisa

[elizabethmaria]

Hi again,
Yes, don't take anything for your adrenals! they need rest, not stimulation!
I'm so sorry if I have kept repeating myself about the chronic fatigue - I'm sure you guys don't have it -- symptoms are feeling like you have the flu, swollen neck glands, sore throat, that never goes away - plus confusion, light sensitivity, really light sleeping, no energy, intense muscle pain... etc..etc..

I guess it's just that I know 2 people who have CFS, actually 3, who refuse to get the proper treatment, and have continued to have it for 8-10 years!!!!! so debilitating, unnecessarily, but you can't get out without help..
ANYWAYS, sorry!!!

Hopeful - that is so sad about the falling -- has it gotten Any better at all?? My legs are having a little trouble when I walk, one turns in, and drags... but only sometimes.. that must be soo hard... you are in my prayers...

Skyer, - yes, I still have the depersonalization too, it was gone for quite a while in month 2, but is back, and doesn't seem to be on its way out.. I just try not to talk to people very much now.. I feel so alone with this, it is really scaring me.

take care everyone,
Elizabethmarie - oh, I am serious about Hawaii -- It is the least that they could do after all this!! It should be a requirement... Forest pharmacuticals, or what it is called, must have plenty of money to send our poor little selves over there!!! ... oh well... hopefully they will learn someday..

[lisabb]

Been thinking.....we need to take a cruise to get to Hawaii!!

[skyer]

Yes, I think the very least we deserve is a trip! I have this fantasy about crashing a Forest Pharm. convention and screaming out the truth!

Thanks for listing the CFS symptoms...I read it before and figured I didn't have it because I don't have throat/flu-like symptoms or sore muscles.

Hopeful...I feel like a broken record, too, when writing about my problems. But we need to vent so go for it! I bet your condition will go away, it will just take time. This drug seems to latch on for a long time and won't leave the body without a fight.

Elizabethmaria...sorry you have the depersonalization, too. It's so yucky. I got it ON the drug and have had it since. It was worse on the drug, though. Do you have the weird dreams, too? Is that the symptom that really scares you or is it other issues, as well? I got to the point where I could no longer go into a big store on my own because of it. It's just too strange. Am I dreaming, or what??? I start to panic. There is a story on Ann Blake Tracy's website written by a guy who had it for months after he quit prozac. He said he could barely function. It must have gone away because he wrote it all in the past tense. I wish some of the stories in her book and other places would tell you when -- and even if --victims of SSRI's got better. Oh, by the way, Hopeful...Tracy's book can only be bought from her website. I think it's about $23. It's the best out there. I think it's Aunty's favorite, too. She is more optimistic at the end of the book than the other experts out there. She believes -- from what she has seen and heard -- that we can all recover.

[azureblue]

Just wanted to let you all know I didn't drop off the edge of the earth (and I am still cutting back!) My husband has this crazy attachment to the computer- and I can only use it when he is not home. (He is a wedding photographer).

Tavee- Holy cow! I took 18mg of that stuff today, and wow, couldn't they have made it taste at least a little better? I also have this fear of all liquid medicines. They make me GAG! Good news though, I talked with the triage nurse at my dr.'s office, and told her that tapering from 20 to 10 was killing me (though I wasn't actually trying this- I was going from 20 to 19!) But, anywhoo she told me that I should cut back the way YOU prescribled. DUH! So, they are going to extend my perscriptions... YAHOO! I knew I would get my way... even if I had to go in their kicking and screaming! But thanks for standing behind me, and being the voice of reason. I have not gotten the Fish Oil yet, but I plan on getting it today- and the multivitamin. So, on another note, do you LOVE being a stay at home mom? That is what I want to do someday. I am getting so BURNT OUT of teaching! I teach Freshman English, and it makes me never want to see a teenager again in my life . Well, I hope all is going well with you!

Skyer- I read your note to ElizabethMaria, and I was just sitting here nodding. I have been having some CRAZY dreams... really vivid too, and usually I am making a total fool of myself in those dreams... going crazy, yelling, etc. Also, have you had a problem with not wanting to see people AT ALL? I know you mentioned the big store thing, but I have this new fear of meeting people, and I was just wandering if that was normal. I am usually a very outgoing person!

Elizabethmaria- I haven't had the flu symptoms, but my stomach is totally going crazy! It hurts constantly. I'm sure this "wonderdrug" is causing all of this, but I sure could do without!

Lisabb- Let me know about the detox! I would be really interested in how it makes you feel? Is it supposed to help with weight loss as well?

Hopeful- I just feel like I have ADD. I am shaky, like I drank too much coffee, and I talk a mile a minute. But in the middle of talking I forget what I am saying, and what I was even talking about from the very beginning... it is really odd. Plus, I do feel like my movements are REALLY jerky, especially when I am nervous... feel a bit like I have terrets or something.

Hairyarmadillo- I am a real wuss when it comes to taking liquid meds- as I mentioned earlier, they make me what to gag, or throw up, or both. However, in Lexapro's defense I guess this liquid isn't as bad as a lot of cough syrups. (that is the last and only time you will ever hear me defend Lex. ) But, yes, I will be SUPER happy when I can get to that baby syringe!)

I love you guys!
Stay well!
P.S. Are there any fellow North Carolinians out there?

[Hopeful 285]

This is an interview with Dr. Ann Blake Tracy. It is very interesting.

Is Mental Illness the Result of Taking SSRIs - Interview Dr Ann Blake Tracy

http://www.cincinnatihyperbarics.com/radioshows.html

I did some light exercise while listening. We need to be moving.

[Hopeful 285]

Hi Elizabethmaria,
If want to talk about chronic fatigue, I want to listen. This helps us so much.
Even if we don't have it, we need to know how to prevent it. We are probably more susceptible right now. I appreciate you.
I have not fallen for a few days now. It comes and goes. I walked down the hill and back up today without a cane. It felt great.

Hi Skyer,
I tried the magnesium bath and it was wonderful. It makes you feel relaxed and energized. It didn't take away my back pain. That is what I was hoping for.
I read the magnesium oxide does not absorb well.
We should be taking magnesium chloride, magnesium lactate, and preferably magnesium malate.
I'm reading From Fatigued to Fantastic by Jacob Teitelbaun. The books seems pretty good except he is blind to the antidepressants problems.

Hi Lisa,
Hawaii sounds good. We would probably be an amusing group, with our jerking, twitching, falling, etc.

Hi Azureblue,
My daughter says that I act like someone with terets at times. My voice suddenly gets louder for a couple of words and then returns to normal.
I am also forgetting what I'm talking about. Some days are better than others. Today is pretty good.
I believe I have dystonia. My head jerks to the left. Sometimes I do something that looks like one of those bobble head dolls.
Do you think you have the movement disorder dystonia? You may want to read the Peter Breggin's chapter 4. I recognize myself when I read this. I don't stick out my tongue but I do move uncontrollably at times.
http://www.breggin.com/brain-disablingch4.html

Azureblue, I live in Ohio, beautiful Hocking Hills.

[tavee]

Azureblue- Yipeeeeeeeeeeeee U Got Ure Way!!

So How Are U Tapering Now? U Are On 18. Thats Good. Doesnt It Taste ********************py??? Yuck!!
So Listen, I Think U Will Be Ok In The Beginning Which Means That Even If U Go Down To Like 15 Or 16ml In Like 2 Weeks (one And One), U Will Be Ok. Now When U Get Further Down, I Will Let U Know What To Do.

Please Tell Me How U Are Tapering, How Many Days, How Many Ml Etc....

Im With U Girl!!!

Ps I Like Being Home But I Really Miss Teaching!! I Taught 6,7,8 English Also!! I Miss Teaching Persuasive, Narrative, And Expository Writing!!! Lol

Take Care Girl!
Tavee

[Hairyarmadillo]

Yes, Lisabb,I want to hear about the detox results as well. What company is it from? Might also try the colon cleansing product. I was interested in that once, but then the company that was selling it had all these pictures of the results (who wants to photograph their feces,lol) and I got scared! If some of those things are in me, I think I would rather not know!
azureblue I was so happy when Robitussin came out with cough medicine in gel caps. I will cough forever before I take medicine. I have had the pleasure-ha-of allergies all my life and took so much liquid medicines of every type I avoid it at all costs, unless absolutely necessary. I was about 9 when I found out that medicine came in pills but my mother was afraid that I would hate the pills, since she had trouble swallowing them-HA, give me the pill form any day. But, maybe had my doc told me Lexapro came only in liquid form, I may not have tried it
I-Did-It, thanks for the inspiration! I was on 10 mg and am now down to 5. Scared about the next decrease, but will do it because I know I will feel better. Once I got to the 5 mg my appetite was normal again (although I did scarf down a burger, fries and bag of peanut M & M's yesterday). I haven't lost weight because I have been eating some stuff I shouldn't but I am not wanting to scarf down cheesecake all the time. And I care about my weight now, where as before I did care to the degree I noticed it, but not enough to do anything about it. So it bugs me. I also find I am more interested in things that I really had stopped worrying about, like shopping for clothes is desirable,versus just a hassle. I always had fun buying lipsticks and makeup and had just taken to buying the bare basics and that was a drag to do. Now, I feel like I "woke up" and am replacing clothes that really needed to be retired and have bought some really neat lipsticks and had fun doing it. I felt more like myself. Though I did feel just a little guilty looking at 6 shiny tubes of lipstick when I could have just bought one-haha. Not going to worry about it though, because for the past several years I have been in a daze and let myself go. Time to enjoy life again!!

[azureblue]

Hairyarmadillo- I am with you- give me a pill any day! Even a horsepill! Well, at least you don't have to worry about it now, right? Just pray for me that I will make it through this icky liquid stuff. (But I guess is if that is the only problem I have withdrawing, than I shouldn't complain! )

Tavee- I was on 20, so I took 19 for a week, and besides having CRAZY bursts of energy and feeling better than I have in three years, I did not have any problems. Oh yeah, I forgot about constant confusion- and forgetting what I am talking about- DUH! But, I can deal with that, I have been known to be a little air-heady at times, so I don't really think people notice. So I dropped down to 18 today. Do you think I should try this for about 3-5 days, then drop to 17? What would be your recommended number of days? I think you are right, I think it will be a lot easier dropping from 20 to 15, but I still want your input... then I will REALLY need it after 15!!! I am so glad you are on this sight- I look up to you so much! Thank you for all of your help!

Hopeful- I will check into that dystonia stuff and let you know. By the way, what are Hocking Hills?

[skyer]

Hopeful and all (especially those with jerking, muscle movement issues)...read this story I found on a Prozac survivor site. I liked this guy's story because he is insightful, yet uplifting in many ways. At one point he talked about how he spent countless hours for 9-10 months (after quiting the drug cold turkey) gathering information and sending emails...sounds just like me!

http://www2.netdoor.com/~bill/prosurv/story4.html

[azureblue]

Skyer- that story was AMAZING! And he wasn't even on Prozac for very long. I wonder what 3 years has been doing to me. How long were you on, and where are you now?

[skyer]

Azure: I was only on it for six weeks and had an adverse reaction. My Dr. told me it was just side effects and to wait it out. I had mania (didn't know at the time) and severe anxiety, depersonalization and insomnia. I quit cold turkey. I've been on Paxil and Prozac before with good results and quit both of them pretty fast with only a few issues that went away after a few weeks....nothing like this. So, I wasn't worried about stopping Lexapro. The one thing I noticed in doing all my research is that those who had a BAD reaction to the drug while on it seem to suffer the most after stopping the drug. Not always, but often.

[skyer]

I'm five and a half months off Lexapro. I'm just starting to see a little light at the end of the tunnel as of yesterday and today. Just hints of my old self. I still feel I have a long way to go, but it's nice to be up and about more now. I really got hit hard. Month four I could barely get out of bed. I'm 31-years old and was in great health before this. It's getting better. I even went out to breakfast and worked on my yard today.

[Hopeful 285]

Thank you Skyer,
I think we all needed to hear a story like that.
I can relate to being online alot. I have really turned into a computer geek.
I never was before. Outside of my job all I do is research Lexapro, research SSRI's.......

I haven't fallen in a few days now. I am wondering if that part of it is over for me. My movements are not as violent as they used to be. I used to shake and jerk really hard. It was hard on my neck and back. Now my head bobs a little and goes to the left. My left leg dips and my terets like symptoms are a little milder.

I. like you still have a ways to go. When I look back at the condition I was in just days ago, I can see an improvement.

I cried when I was reading the story. The despair, the hopelessness and now he is ok. I love stories with good endings
I could not even cry before because it was too physically painful. Another good sign...

I believe we ARE HEALING

[Hairyarmadillo]

Wow, what an amazing story. Now when I see that commercial talking about "your time is now" and how just because an antidepressant isn't working, doesn't meant there isn't hope, I wonder how many people who "aren't responding to treatment" are in fact having adverse reactions. I will be glad when I am down to 0mg but I realize that even then I will still be recovering. I read your "5 1/2 months" skyer-that is good. I just keep telling myself this time next year I will be closer to "normal" but I know that there is a lot more to endure. Just glad that I am not crazy. I have been convinced that Alzheimer's was in my near future because I cannot remember anything. I will start sentences and get lost in the middle. Have always had an extensive vocabulary but now struggle to think of words. I can relate to the guy in the Prozac article because I think about medication a lot differently now. Who really knows what stuff does to us, even if it isn't obvious at the time?! Oh, I am also glad that I am not experiencing the beginnings of some deadly disease affecting the muscular system. I wish I had done Lexapro research a year ago. It would have eased my mind!
I don't guess anyone knows of Lexapro causing bunions, by any chance? LOL I don't guess I can blame EVERYTHING on Lexapro. Today I was getting my hair done and noticed a thinning area on top. First thing I thought was "the Lexapro"! I had to laugh-but one does get paranoid after finding out all it does do.
You all are such a blessing though.

[azureblue]

Hey guys! Has anyone else experienced an upset stomach while getting off of Lex.? My stomach just burns sometimes, but I don't have any other symptoms, just an ache that comes and goes.

Skyer- I didn't have a whole lot of problems getting on the drug- in fact, I got really happy really fast (though I was REALLY hyper). After a while, though, I just didn't care about anything. And I thought my life was horrible (though it is DEFINITELY not!) I became really apathetic (is that a word?) Anyway, the only time I have had a problem is when trying to come off. Maybe it will work this time since I am SSSSLLLLLOOOOOWWWWLLLYYYY tapering. Thanks for the info!

[Hopeful 285]

Azureblue,
Hocking Hills is towards the southern part of Ohio.
People come here to enjoy the outdoors. There is canoeing, horseback riding,fishing, beautiful parks with caves and walking paths. There are cabin rentals everywhere. It is especially beautiful in the summer and fall.
I recommend it to anyone who needs to just get away. It is the most scenic place in Ohio.

http://www.hockinghills.com/