Managing Anxiety: Navigating Medication and Doctor Visits

Q: Managing Anxiety: Navigating Medication and Doctor Visits

Hello： I believe that each physician has their own habits. <br>Some physicians may inform patients that if they have fully recovered and have no further issues, there is no need for a follow-up appointment. <br>Others may take a more conservative approach. <br>The process of tape

Palpitations due to anxiety?

I would like to consult the doctor: I have been taking Escitalopram for 15 months and have currently reduced the dosage to 10 mg, taking half a tablet.
My follow-up appointments have also changed to once a month.
Each time, I ask the doctor when I can stop coming, but the doctor only says that I can take it as needed and prescribes health supplements.
It seems that private practice doctors don't usually say that I can stop coming, which has become another source of worry for me.
It feels like I need the doctor to say that I can stop visiting in order for me to actually stop, but the doctor never says that.
I keep hoping to get better, but recently I feel like I am becoming more anxious and have asked the doctor to prescribe Inderal.
I have taken it before, and the doctor said it was fine to gradually reduce the frequency of visits.
I have follow-up appointments once a month, and I get medication to keep on hand.
Is the doctor waiting for me to gradually stop coming and letting the patient decide? It can't be that the doctor just says, "Okay, you don't need to come anymore," because sometimes I still feel uneasy about it.

ia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/07

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: I believe that each physician has their own habits.
Some physicians may inform patients that if they have fully recovered and have no further issues, there is no need for a follow-up appointment.
Others may take a more conservative approach.
The process of tapering medication requires patience, and the most important factor is the improvement of the condition.
If a patient does not return for follow-up due to improvement in their condition, physicians typically do not mind.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2020/10/07

More Info

Managing anxiety, especially when it involves medication and regular doctor visits, can be a complex and often frustrating experience. It sounds like you have been on a journey with your medication, specifically with Escitalopram (often referred to as Lexapro or by its brand name, 易思坦), for about 15 months. Reducing your dosage to 10 mg and transitioning to monthly check-ins with your doctor is a significant step, indicating progress in your treatment. However, the lingering anxiety about needing to see your doctor and the uncertainty about when you can stop visiting can understandably add to your stress.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that anxiety can manifest in various ways, including the fear of medical appointments and the worry about medication management. This is not uncommon among individuals dealing with anxiety disorders. The feeling of needing reassurance from your doctor is a natural response, especially when you are trying to navigate your mental health independently.
Your doctor’s approach of allowing you to decide when to taper off visits is likely intended to empower you and encourage self-management of your anxiety. However, it can also leave you feeling uncertain and anxious about your progress. It’s crucial to have open communication with your healthcare provider. If you feel that your anxiety is increasing or that you are struggling with the idea of reducing your visits, it’s essential to express these feelings during your appointments. A good doctor will appreciate your honesty and can help you develop a plan that feels more comfortable for you.

Regarding the use of Inderal (Propranolol), which is often prescribed for anxiety-related symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or tremors, it’s important to discuss any concerns you have about this medication with your doctor. Inderal can be effective for situational anxiety, but it’s not typically a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. If your doctor agrees to prescribe it, ensure you understand how it fits into your overall treatment plan.

As you continue to manage your anxiety, consider incorporating additional coping strategies alongside your medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders and can provide you with tools to manage your symptoms more effectively. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also help reduce anxiety levels and improve your overall well-being.

Additionally, it’s essential to monitor your mental health closely. If you notice an increase in anxiety or if your symptoms become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. They can help you adjust your treatment plan or provide additional support, whether through therapy, medication adjustments, or lifestyle recommendations.

In summary, managing anxiety while navigating medication and doctor visits can be challenging. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key, as is incorporating additional coping strategies into your routine. Remember that it’s okay to seek reassurance and support, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Your mental health is a priority, and finding a balance that works for you is essential.

Similar Q&A

Navigating Anxiety and Medication: Finding Balance in Mental Health Care

I have been visiting a community clinic (which specializes in insomnia and neurosis) and I am currently taking medication: one Serlin at night and one Sulnine in the morning and evening. However, I am concerned about medication dependence. I asked my doctor about it, and he said ...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello Sel, in the treatment of depression, besides medication, psychological adjustment and environmental factors are also very important. If we can address all three aspects, the treatment outcomes are usually the best. The goal of depression treatment is to achieve complete rec...

Managing Anxiety Medication: Concerns and Solutions for Students

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about the use of medication for anxiety disorders. Previously, during my college entrance exam preparation, I experienced significant stress and during a mock exam, I became so anxious that I couldn't calm down to take the test. Even though...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Hsiao-Hsuan: Anti-anxiety medications can alleviate anxiety, but they do not teach you how to overcome anxiety or coexist with it. There are other non-pharmacological treatment options for anxiety disorders, such as reducing life stress, adjusting lifestyle habits, increas...

Overcoming Anxiety: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

During middle school, I was aware that nothing serious would happen, yet I was very afraid to go to school. At 19, I worked part-time at a convenience store, but I had to quit because I couldn't control myself when faced with the morning rush of customers; everything in fron...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. Since you have been seeing a psychiatrist for many years, you can ask your doctor during your appointment about what the specific issues are. The doctor should be able to clarify your concerns. Based on the text, it seems to fall under the category of anxiety symptoms. The...

Overcoming Health Anxiety: Strategies to Break the Cycle of Worry

Hello, Doctor: I have been struggling with obsessive thoughts about illness for a long time, which leads me to self-examine, such as constantly feeling my neck for lumps, and I always end up thinking there’s something there; or I keep looking at my throat and the more I look, the...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, obsessive thoughts inherently possess a strong allure, making us feel they are important and cannot be ignored; we must drop everything and address them immediately. However, this is a trick of such thoughts, as the reality is quite different. Have you ever experienced day...