Nightmares, Insomnia Or Completely Out Of It

[Dalmaoma]

I am contemplating reducing my medications on my own. My doctor is wanting to increase anxiety medication and keep me on everything else I'm on too. I've attempted taking my medication as prescribed and in doing so it makes me completely out of it and unable to function; so sleepy I can't physically keep my eyes open. I can't find another doctor due to I'm getting these services for free (along with my medication) and I really like and trust my doctor. I don't know which way would be best and guess trial and error may be the only way. I have insomnia on a cosistent basis, have to use a sleep aid to get to sleep. If I take a sleep aid ontop of my other medications (especially Geodon) I am a zombie the next day. I've tried taking the Geodon at a time where it should wear off while I'm sleeping (or have the side effects then) and so far haven't pinned it down well enough. I was hoping she'd have a solution for the horrific nightmares I've been experiencing and the frightening scares. She said that is the post traumatic stress and there isn't anything that can make that stop. The idea that nothing can make these things stop and it isn't within my control while asleep is upsetting.

 

[Srain]

How frustrating is that?! I was on Geodon for quite awhile and I know how wiped out it can make you. It's a tricky med to get the right dose because if I remember right it's a capsule so you can't cut it. The only other thing I would suggest if you haven't tried it, I use to take mine at dinner, always with food and always hours before I went to bed.

Be assured there are ways of helping Survivors of PTSD and there are people that have recovered. I wonder if you are seeing a Trauma Specialist or therapist as well as your dr? I imagine that hearing that was very frightening but it certainly is not true, there are so many great things happening for people with this disorder so please don't be disheartened.

 

[cherryblossom]

If your Doctor is only talking about medications, then no, I don't know of any medical/drug solution to your nightmares, and insomnia.

Certainly, some medications can assist during these difficult times, but as for a long-term solution, then you need to be looking at therapy, and the issues surrounding your nightmares.

I would strongly recommend against changing your medication yourself, without close supervision and advice from your Doctor, as to a way to reduce medications safely.

The best way to tackle nightmares, is to deal with your trauma through therapy. I do understand how awful it is to be plagued by nightmares and insomnia, but medications can only mask your symptoms. Talking about your trauma, pulling it apart, talking about it until your sick of talking about it, discussing the emotions surrounding your trauma, and exposing yourself to situations that trigger you, is the only way to truly reduce all those negative thoughts and emotions surrounding your trauma.