Lexapro Worked…Can I Return to It?

Reader’s Question

My problem is anger and panic attacks. I get upset for any reason and it seems like I’m angry most of the time. In the case of panic attacks, whenever there is a little more stress then usually my heart goes crazy, I start crying and cannot stop it. Because of these two things I often use inappropriate language, shout at my children and husband, and this crying is so humiliating that I stopped working and do everything I can to stay away from places, people and situations that can make me nervous. Obviously!

I tried different types of therapies and herbs but nothing worked. Three years ago I was on Lexapro for few months and stopped using it when I got pregnant. While on Lexapro I went to visit my family — VERY stressfull situation — and for the first time in my life I didn’t experience this crying attack. I don’t recall how my anger was then, but being able to face this situation with the smile instead of crying was almost the best thing that ever happend to me.

My question now is: Since Lexapro worked very well for me then and I didn’t experience any side effects, do you think that I can safely take Lexapro now and possibly for the rest of my life?

Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

You can certainly return to Lexapro without any difficulty. Each antidepressant has a different chemical formula so I’m glad you found one that works well for you. Taking Lexapro the rest of your life is a decision made by your physician. There is no question that individuals use these medications for years at a time. I’ve also worked with patients that were stabilized on a large dose of an antidepressant, then placed on a lower “maintenance” dose indefinitely. Ideally, once you have stabilized your mood and panic attacks, you might consider therapy/counseling to deal with the issues that created the panic attacks and depression in the first place. Why are the home visits so stressful? Over time and with treatment, you can develop strategies that decrease your stress level and decrease the need for medication as well.

Rate this post?

(2 votes, average: 4.5 out of 5)

 Loading ...