Really bad Anxiety

[ElectricEric]

I have been on 200MG of Zoloft and .25MG Xanax for about 5 years. I have been ok until about 3 weeks ago. I was told I was being layed off (I'm gonna be 63) on March 31, 2006
and I took a nosedive back to depression and REALLY BAD Anxiety. My doctor switched me to kolnopin .5MG 2 times a day.. That gives me headachs, so I switched back to
Xanax. I have tried to tuff it out without xanax and I guess I can't.  I also am starting a new job on April 3, 2006.. I haven't seen a phyc in over 5 years.  am waiting to get an appointment, but haven't yet.  What suggestions can anyone offer me as how to handle this.  Thanks, EE

[apple]

Maybe you could try Ativan?  look under "medications and therapy" in this forum
under" Medication table-different groups "  there are other anti-anxiety meds out there...

Thank god you have another job to go to!!!  Keep hanging on...this will pass, you'll settle into your new job and things will calm down.

Apple

[basketcase]

Hello EE and Happy Birthday! Goodness but I can understand how your anxiety came back when you heard you were going to lose your job. I am 53 and haven't been able to work because of my anxiety and I was a nurse.
I think it's wonderful that you found a new job so soon. Being our age sometimes makes it harder to get hired so look at the good aspects of your situation.
As for you needing medication, that's ok. Right now when things are out of your normal routine, having something to take to get over the humps is fine. I take Klonopin and yes, I do seem to get headaches from it but it helps lessen the anxiety. I used to take xanax too but my doctor decided to switch as he felt the Klonopins effects lasted longer. I don't really see a difference.
Do you have a family member you can talk to or a close friend or clergy? I know it helps being able to share your feelings with someone. This board is a great place if you don't have anyone. Do try and hang in there and don't put yourself down for needing your xanax. Hope everything works out for you.

Valerie