Mental Health Struggles: A Patient's Journey with Medication

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Dear Dr.
Tang,
I apologize for the delay in my response due to overtime work and not having access to a computer at home.
I hope you can understand.
The psychiatrist at St.
Mary’s prescribed the following medications for me: Xanax 50 mg (one tablet after breakfast and dinner), Tido (Sinwell) (one tablet after breakfast and dinner), Cephadol (cephendol) 25 mg (one tablet after breakfast and dinner), Luvox 50 mg (two tablets after breakfast and two tablets before bedtime), and Dogmatyl 200 mg (one tablet before bedtime).

Recently, I have been feeling a blankness in my mind, as if something has changed in my brain.
The issue of excessive sleepiness has become unbearable; no matter how much I sleep, I never feel rested and always want to sleep more.
Even while working, I find myself struggling to stay awake, feeling as if I have no energy and am in another space.
My memory is still very poor, and I am taking my medications as prescribed.
Why is this happening?
Doctor, I am truly suffering, and I desperately want to be "free" from this.
Although I know there are many who are worse off than I am, I feel so helpless! When I was in the military, if someone was unwell, they could take a break, but in my job, that is not an option.
I am still contemplating whether to inform my colleagues about my symptoms, but I fear losing my job, leaving me in a dilemma with no clear choice.

Regarding military service, I have known for a long time that veterans often bully new recruits, and I really do not want to return to the military and waste my life while causing trouble for myself and others.
Why should I? Currently, I have thoughts of wanting to end my life; I would rather die than endure this daily suffering.
However, I also think that dying would be a very selfish act.
Not only would it be unfilial, but it would also mean abandoning my responsibilities.
I do not want to leave this world burdened by three major sins.

Doctor, can you understand the pain and suffering I am experiencing?

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/10/31

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry

Dear Xiao Jie,
I apologize for the delay in responding to your inquiry.
I've been quite busy with work recently, and my personal computer system encountered some issues.
After reading your letter, I can sense that you are experiencing significant emotional and physical discomfort, feeling quite distressed, and struggling with a sense of hopelessness regarding life and the future, which seems contradictory.
It appears that your depression has worsened lately.
Although your doctor has prescribed a higher dosage of medication than usual, it seems to have limited effectiveness for you.
This may be due to the time it takes for the medication to take effect; generally, antidepressants begin to show results after being used at an adequate dosage for about ten days to two weeks.
Additionally, if you are facing changes or stressors in your life, such as work, family interactions, or interpersonal relationships, these can also impact your mood.
I recommend discussing this further with your primary care physician.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2001/10/31

More Info

It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the pain and confusion you are experiencing. Mental health struggles can be overwhelming, especially when compounded by the complexities of medication and the pressures of daily life. Your feelings of emptiness, fatigue, and the desire for relief are valid and deserve attention.

From your description, it seems you are currently on a regimen of multiple medications, including Xanax, Tido (Sinwell), Cephadol, Luvox, and Dogmatyl. Each of these medications serves a specific purpose, but they can also come with side effects that may contribute to your feelings of drowsiness, cognitive fog, and overall fatigue. For instance, Xanax is a benzodiazepine that can cause sedation, while Luvox is an SSRI that can sometimes lead to feelings of lethargy, especially when starting treatment or adjusting dosages.

It's important to communicate openly with your psychiatrist about the side effects you are experiencing. Your symptoms of excessive sleepiness and cognitive difficulties could be related to the medications, their dosages, or even how they interact with each other. Sometimes, finding the right balance of medications can take time and may require adjustments. Your psychiatrist may consider modifying your treatment plan, whether that means changing dosages, switching medications, or introducing additional therapies.

Additionally, the feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm you mentioned are serious and should be addressed immediately. It's crucial to reach out for help, whether that means contacting your psychiatrist, a therapist, or a crisis hotline. You are not alone in this struggle, and there are professionals who can provide support and guidance.

You also mentioned the fear of losing your job if you disclose your symptoms to colleagues. This is a common concern among individuals dealing with mental health issues. However, it's important to prioritize your health and well-being. If you feel comfortable, consider discussing your situation with a trusted supervisor or HR representative who can provide support and accommodations if needed. Many workplaces have policies in place to support employees dealing with health issues, including mental health.

In terms of coping strategies, consider incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine. This could include mindfulness exercises, gentle physical activity, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Building a support network of friends, family, or support groups can also be beneficial. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

Lastly, remember that recovery is a journey, and it's okay to seek help along the way. You are taking a brave step by reaching out and expressing your feelings. Please continue to advocate for yourself and seek the support you need. Your life is valuable, and there is hope for a brighter future.

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