Hello all.

I have been on SSRIs since I was 17 due to developing an anxiety disorder involving chronic panic attacks and obsessive/anxious worry. I couldn't even sit in classes in high school and became paralyzed by panic. I am 29 now. I was successfully treated with citalopram for years and managed my anxiety somewhat okay using a combination of meds, exercise, and counseling. I have even made it most of my way through a PhD program in the Biosciences, but I am at my wits end with this mental illness stuff currently. I probably am going to take a leave of absence which isn't helping my anxiety... Anyway, a year ago we decided to change from citalopram to fluoxetine because we didn't think the citalopram was working for me anymore as I was maxed out; however, I couldn't handle the switch as the transition was too difficult and developed severe panic and anxiety again. Looking back at it now, I probably could have pushed through if I used some sort of benzo to cope. Regardless, after about 6 weeks of fluoxetine, we went to escitalopram. I have been on escitalopram 20 mg/day for a year now and am experiencing all of the physical symptoms of depression and anxiety for about 6 months now again and recently panic attacks. Sigh. My doc has weaned me off the escitalopram over a month and started me on Zoloft (50 mg/day currently, prob going to 75 mg/day later). I have been on Zoloft for 11 days now. I have benzos for as needed, but I don't want to overdo it in this department. To be honest, I am very scared and worried. My anxiety and panic is back full blown with depressive episodes. I am pretty much bedridden except for getting to doctors appointments, reading self help, and hitting the gym when I feel up for it. I have been barely eating or sleeping and am very agitated. Does anyone have any advice for getting through this tough transition and if/when things will get better?

Thank you.