I had my follow up and the aneurysm is fixed but the anxiety and depression is preventing me from moving forward. I also had a stroke during the procedure. For those of you who suffer from anxiety and depression what has helped you the most. I’m on Effexor but I’m not sure it’s helping. If it is I can’t imagine what I’d be like if I didn’t take it. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the replies. I’m on keppra because I had two seizures right after the procedure. I’m wondering if the anxiety and depression are a side effect.
Hi chris, Im still trying to work my way through this too. my psychologist feels in my case I have apathy which is sometimes a result of brain injury. certain parts of my brain are probably not functioning properly and I really struggle to feel any sense of enjoyment from doing things, and that affects my motivation too. some mornings I wake up really anxious and I still dont understand why but the doc has recommended some breathing exercises to help calm down my system. I have a feeling that somewhere in my brain, it knows that something isnt right anymore, and it's a type of automatic response (because there doesnt seem to be any rhyme or reason to it).
Every single day, I have to push myself to do the most basic things, and I just try to hope it gets easier.
Keppra made me feel depressed for sure! I could not wait to get off it. You might suggest this to your doctor. But be very careful! You have to get off it very gradually. I did I cold turkey and ended up in the ER. Everyone is different so make sure you consult your doctor.
I was on Effexxor for a long time. My doctor said maybe too long and it wasnt working well because I had become too tolerant. He changed my depression and anxiety meds. Coming off and going on different meds can be dangerous so follow instructions, but it might help. I have been on a variety of depression and anxiety meds for the last 4 years. We cange it up when I feel like they arent working well anymore. At this point it is 4 depression, one anxiety, two seizure, two vitamins and a baby aspirin every day. Pills four times a day. Works my memory and keeps me reminded that I’m a lucky one!Peace with the process! Melissa C
Chris,
I think anxiety and depression are normal with life altering changes. It’s our brain adjusting to the shock of it all. Absolutely talk to your doctor!
Sharong- I know why your doctor has suggested breathing exercises! Finally, I know something! When your body has enough oxygen, muscles cannot be tight, your brain automatically slows down from fight or flight mode, everything finds its balance. Even your heart rate and blood pressure will even out. I worked with children for twenty years who suffered from PTSD, ADHD, ODD (oppositional defiance disorder) and Conduct Disorder, not to mention the depression and anxiety of just being a mixed up kid.
First thing we’d do is learn relaxation breathing - the entire family unit. It was one of my rules. Whomever was involved with “my” child had to learn or else. Along with “secrets are only good for Christmas, Chanukah, and birthdays. Today’s not my birthday, I’m not Jewish and it isn’t Christmas.” But I digress.
What I discovered quickly is that because people think it won’t work, they 1) don’t try 2) don’t try often or long enough or 3)expect it not to work. I can help with all three but you must do the work.
Okay so let’s start with proper breathing. Your carriage, upper torso must be as straight as you can make it, shoulders back, head held proudly - raise that chin a little, you are a fantastic person show the world! Now in the beginning, close your eyes, not tight, just easy. Breathe,in through your nose - hold it - count to five slowly, no s l o w l y. Good, release it all through your mouth, good strong blow. Do this five times. Use your fingers if you need a visual reminder. I’ll wait.
Done? Feeling a little better? Light headed means your probably going too fast, slow down but don’t do it like your going for the Guiness World Record in holding your breath.
Now make a fist with both hands if you can. Now start breathing again in through your nose, hold it for five, out your mouth good strong blow. Five times…
What do you notice? Harder to hold those fists if you’re doing it right.
I love breathing. Start each morning before getting out of bed with it. Practice all the time - taking a shower - riding in the car - going on the toilet - every change and I mean every change do your breathing. When you find yourself with feelings that are going out of control guess what? Yep, you got it! Breathe! Let me here it! What do you don’t? …In two weeks to a month, yes a full month, then start working on identifying body mechanics - nope ain’t telling you- why you ask? Well, it’s not been two weeks or a month has it?
By the way, am I spelling that right? The breathing word? Breath Breathe where is my Websters?