Medication: Crutch or Cure - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

Alwayz Stressed · 05-24-2004, 03:25 PM

Here's the deal: I've tried Wellbutrin, Paxil & Zoloft. The Wellbutrin & Paxil didn't work and while the Zoloft worked, I had really bad side effects so I stopped taking it. I've come to the conclusion that I think I need to start taking something again, but I feel really guilty about it. My Mom doesn't understand my OCD or my anxiety and kind of dismisses them. Don't get me wrong, my Mom is a great lady, but she thinks depression, OCD, anxiety, etc. as well as SSRI's are over diagnosed and prescribed. On the other hand, I have my husband who is understanding of my "quirks" but is constantly throwing it in my face that I quit taking my medicine (especially when we are fighting). I feel frustrated because I can't talk to my husband because he either A) uses it against me at some point or B) doesn't understand where I'm coming from. He just wants a quick fix to my emotions so he keeps encouraging medication. I'm at the point where I'm not sure if I need medication or if I'm just using it to mask other problems? Any suggestions would be appreciated. I'm not sure where else to turn 'cause nobody really understands my situation.......

LOANOFFICER · 05-24-2004, 06:17 PM

Hi. I have been taking medication since 1987 for OCD. My mom was with me when I went to the Dr. (psychiatrist). 1987 is when Prozac was basically just starting to be prescribed. I can remember her reaction as if it was yesterday. She asked the Dr. how can alittle pill make such a difference in the brain. The Dr. preceeded to tell her. She was amazed by his response. But I don't think she ever grasped what OCD was all about. She died a few years ago. My husband made the mistake once of saying that maybe the problems we were having in our marriage was maybe because I was on medicine for OCD and that I had OCD in the first place. I then informed him if maybe he was alittle more supportive and understanding that maybe I wouldn't have so many problems. I also told him that I can't help it that I have OCD. I wouldn't wish this disease on anyone. He has been alot better since I said that. In my situation, the medicine is definately NOT a crutch but it also is not the cure. I wish there was a cure for OCD as I am sure alot of other people would too. My Dr pretty much has said that I will probably be taking medication for the rest of my life and I am 46. Everyday is a challenge. Some more than others. There are some days when I feel pretty darn good. But then just like that, the next day you just don't feel right and the thoughts and obsessions are back again. Each good day is a great gift from God and the bad days are challenging which in turn is making me a better, stronger person.

Calv1502004 · 05-25-2004, 01:30 AM

Always stessed, medication has woked really well for me, Ido still have some bad days but on the whole im doing really good! Im on prozac and am fortunate as I suffer from little to no side effects! Im not sure how aware you are but medication is not the only treatment of OCD nor is it the best treatment, the best treatment is cognitive behaviour therapy with an OCD trained specialist, this has proved to be MORE effective than medication and I would suggest that you seek out the therapy with or without the medication! All the best

Calv