[alliecat]

Does anyone know how to stop being so paranoid? I haven't always been this way and I (as well as my dr) think it's a side effect from Lexapro so he changed my medicine yesterday. For the time being htough, I have to deal with getting paranoid and thinking the world is out to get me. Any advice???

[wisewoman]

paranoid? Like fear and anxiety about people? I have it pretty badly when my depression is severe. That's one of my clues. Be well, it helps me to tell myself that I am seeing things from a skewed perception and to have someone to bounce things off from to see if I am reacting properly.

[jmo531]

I know how you feel about the paranoia. I felt like for a time after starting taking my meds. However, it did not last too long. I always felt that I was living in the twilight zone and I was the only normal one. I think it's a combo of the depression, anxiety and in my case OCD as well. Your not alone. (((((((hugs)))))))

[alliecat]

Yes. Paranoia about people hating me. Paranoia that I will never be normal again. Paranoia about being paranoid. My boyfriend he doesn't think I am being weird so I guess it's just all in my head. I have to fight to not let it creep into reality.

[alliecat]

I think another part of the problem is I am paranoid that everyone hates me becuase I am being selfish and trying to care for myself. I have always dealt with everyone elses problems and been there for them but I'm tired of it. I did it for so long that I felt like I had to keep all my problems inside because no one would want to deal with it. They have enough problems without mine. But I'm tired. I have to deal with me and not care what my family and friends think. I just don't know how to do it. I don't want to let anyone down.

[Rebound]

This is just my opinion, mind you, Allie, but to me, that sounds as much like guilt as paranoia. It's important to try to remember that when it comes to trying to get better, it's ok to be selfish. The people who care for you will understand, and the people who don't care to understand are probably not worth worrying yourself over. Just my 2 cents, mind you, but I do want you to know it's ok to just take care of yourself for a while and not worry about others so much.

As far as honest to goodness paranoia goes, I agree it's tough to deal with. It's so hard to tell if the feelings one has are justified or not. It's great you have a boyfriend with whom you can discuss your feelings and get feedback. Keep that up and I think you'll be ok.

[alliecat]

I am so scared my boyfriend doesn't want to be with me anymore and I don't know why. I have no justified reason other than I am just paranoid.

[hamstergirl]

These feelings will pass. I worried about people abandoning me for the long time. Well, at least half a dozen people in church came up to say hi today and my neighbour made me some meatball soup.

These feelings will pass. It's perfectly okay to take care of yourself. It's not being selfish. It's not good to martyr yourself all the time. Take some time off. People will understand and those who don't, aren't worth worrying over.