Yesterday I visited an organisation in Bristol, that supports people coming off prescribed medication, Bristol & District Tranquilliser Project, and I just wish I had known about them before.
I still have vivid memories of driving through 'The Downs' (a big grassy area in Bristol) 6 years ago, while on my way to a mums and toddlers group and asking myself "am I the only person in Bristol who is experiencing awful withdrawal symptoms and who has to dip their finger into a crushed antidepressant before starting every day?" Although I had never experimented with any recreational drugs, I felt like a drug addict. I was taking Seroxat for anxiety and depression at the time, (before it was available as a syrup to help withdrawal). This medication had been my 'wonder drug' but I was learning that coming off it was not so wonderful for me!
It is important to say at this point that not everyone has difficulty coming off medication. Steve, my husband, came off his anti-depressants quite easily and with little affect, yet for others it can be a very difficult process.
However what bothers me about my discovery is that there was an organisation, little more than a mile away, that could have given me comfort through easing my aloneness and I did not know anything about it. I wonder if this is true for anyone reading this blog? It is so difficult to look for services when you are suffering yourself or supporting someone close to you, but what a shame to miss out on vital help. Maybe another quick internet search or a chat with your G.P could lead you or your loved one to a hidden oasis? I hope so.
Another great post, which I am sure will be really helpful for others to know they are not alone in this.
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