I have had that thought twice in my adult life about my anti anxiety medication. Let’s just say I am lucky to still be happily married to the same woman after being dumb enough to attempt something a second time that turned out so poorly the first. I am definitely a person who lives better through chemistry, as well as those who love me and would prefer that I stay at least slightly lovable.
Liked by bernese53, JK, Alumna Mentor, Lisa Lucier
what a great discussion! my psych dr. continually tells me that RESTORATIVE sleep is vital. He is less concerned with “addiction”. i take 10 mg of ambien at night. in terms of addiction…for any med, this is what i finally decided. excuse me, world. i need help and i will no longer suffer if there is a chemical or even non-chemical, something that works. i don’t nag smokers, drinkers, over-eaters, workaholics and exercise-aholics. all of which change the chemistry and biochemistry in one’s body/brain/emotions.
Liked by Jen, Alumna Mentor, Gary, Volunteer Mentor, Parus
People are well meaning but can be inadvertently cruel with their comments. Ideally our bodies should be able to function without any drugs BUT we know that the vast majority of people need medication to help them be truly themselves — the best that they can be. Would anyone say to a person who needs insulin that he or she is addicted to it and must stop? Would they say that to a person who is taking heart medication? Of course not. Being able to get the necessary sleep helps us to function better and to be “our best”. We are fortunate if we are helped by medication; there are many who are not. I just moved from New York City where I know so many people who take ambien or other sleep aids and have done so for decades. Their internists, psychiatrists, and neurologists are the ones prescribing it for them. I take alprazolam and without it, I would be spending many sleepless nights. So what if one has to take medication to help with brain chemistry, emotional stability, sleep assistance or any other physical, mental, or emotional reason. Be grateful that these drugs work for you. Please don’t let other people’s words put you on a journey that may cause torment. Whether you are on these drugs or not, please always check with a trusted specialist as to what course is in your best interest. Terry
Liked by bernese53, Lisa Lucier, arachel, peabody88
Some excellent points Georgette! I made a commitment to myself that when I quit drinking and smoking that I would not make an effort to tell everyone I saw doing either what great harm they were doing to their bodies and that they could quit if they really wanted. Life choices must be made by everyone for their life and it is not our place to judge, but I will offer support if anyone asks because they are attempting to make a lifestyle change. I think your making a choice that is best for you and your health, regardless of what anyone else thinks, is admirable.
Liked by Jen, Alumna Mentor, Lisa Lucier
Hi, I have been taking Ambien since 1995. I also take Cymbalta and Wellbutrin. My Dr. doesn't want to prescribe Ambien for me anymore and while I have signed up for a Sleep Study and some CBT to get more information about my sleep, the thought of not having Ambien to ensure a few hours sleep makes me panicky. Is this some new trend with Drs to not prescribe drugs that are proven to be effective? Is this part of the Opioid witch hunt? Very Frustrated. RR
Amen to that! I am in the club of "IF IT HELPS – TAKE IT". So true that all the aforementioned habits (smoking, drinking, over-eating, over-working/exercising) are just another branch of the "How I cope with Life" cycle. I try Melatonin occasionally, and get wicked, frightening dreams with it. Even a little bit of Melotonin..Ack! R
Liked by Jen, Alumna Mentor, Lisa Lucier
@arachel
It’s good to know that others have no qualms about continuing on Ambien. Have you had to increase your dosage at all during that time? I’m always afraid I’ll build up a resistance to the drug and it will stop working.