I do whatever the little voices in my head tell me...

[CrystalUnicorn]

Heh. Just kiddin' about the title.
I got a bit of a question.
I've been diagnosed with (let's see) psychosis, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and OCD. Also have a few schizoid tendencies. (BTW, schizoid has NOTHING to do with schizophrenic).
Anyway, ever since I've been on medication for these things, I've had absolutely no emotions at all.
I've been on medication since August last year, and recently annoyed my psych so much that she finally agreed to take me off it.
That was a few weeks ago.
The effects of the medication have supposedly worn off by now, but I still feel absolutely nothing emotion-wise. It's the most horrible feeling.
Does anyone know why this could be?
Can anyone give me some advice on medicine I could take/changes in way of thinking/even a personal 'battling your demons' experience?
It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.



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CrystalUnicorn

[Hopefull]

What were the medications that you were on?

The SSRI medications, such as prozac, zoloft, and paxil, are very effective at helping with depression , anxiety, and ocd symptoms. They generally help you to feel more like your normal self. They don't tend to surpress your normal, natural emotions.

The antipsychotic medications, such as zyprexa and respiridol, are very useful and important meds, but they can have the effect of flattening out the emotions.

If you have been on them a while, it may take a few weeks before they are out of your system. Be sure to let your Doc know if your psychotic symptoms return though. It can be a hard choice to make, but disussing it with your Doctor regardless of whether you decide to take the meds, is a good idea.

Good luck to you!

[CrystalUnicorn]

Thanks guys!
Actually, I'm on Zoloft (WAS on Zoloft) which is an SSRI. It does actually 'flatten' some people. I was one of those lucky few!!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif
I'm off them now, onto a better antipsychotic, and just waiting for the icky side effects to wear off.

[one wolf]

You say it's the most horrible feeling to have no feelings. Interesting.

Are you seeing a psychiatrist to talk about your feelings/emotions? If not, then you should be.

Also, sometimes an alternative approach works better than taking lots of chemicals that suppress your emotions. I would also consider seeing an ND who can help you naturally. Homeopathic remedies are very good for this and can work on a mental/emotional level and will help you to feel things again. This in conjunction with seeing a good therapist could work very well for you.