Lived Experience Forum

[Shaz51]

Hello everyone xx

not sure what to do ?? we saw the Doctor for my hubby who has MI

the doctor said the meds are only used for short term and so he took a blood test to see how everything is

so Hubby decided to go off his meds ,it has only been one week on half his meds and he had a bad day yesterday

he said today he has to go back on the meds or he will be in hospital if he doesn`t , so If we see the specialist hewill say to stop work altogether , he has a sickness certificate at the hospital , he does not want o go back into hospital because he know what they are going to say -- stop work

so we see the doctor again next week

[Phoenix_Rising]

Hi @Shaz51, That sounds like a very difficult situation. I gather that hubby really wants to keep working? I am surprised that he would be getting advised to stop work - employment has so many positive benefits for people with MI. However, knowing zero about the situation, I don't think I can really have an opinion. What are your own thoughts on the situation???

[Former-Member]

Hi @Shaz51, that's really weird, normally everyone is pushing us to go to work, what's the drawback at your Hubby's workplace? I thought you two had a cleaning business (soz, get so confused here). Can he go part time? I think with any MI, stress is a huge contributing factor. Its even unusual psychiatrist is taking him off his meds - in my experience they pretty much think we should be on them for life. Well, that's not what's advertised but that's what happens. Were you present at this consultation? Have you tried different types (is it antidepressants?). My new GP found an antidepressant that takes the edge off the anxiety for me. Finally getting some relief this last year. Can't say its name but its known as a good one for PTSD.
I'm not sure what you're looking for but maybe go back to the dr with these concerns asap, ask if he minds you getting a second opinion on your hubbys treatment options, or just find a new psychiatrist. On the other hand, coming off any medication is likely to come with withdrawals, it should be done VERY slowly - over 3 wks+ not cold turkey. You're such a loving caring wife, it must be draining for you too so remember to spoil yourself through the day with little breaks xox

[Shaz51]

thank you @Former-Member, @Phoenix_Rising

we have a very small self employed house cleaning and mowing business

we have cut back soo many times to cut back the stress

we have not seen our psychiatrist. for the past year and  half  , It was just a Gp that said the med are used for short term

 going  back to the dr with these concerns asap next monday @Former-Member, and I am writting down all the details of the week

[Former-Member]

@Shaz51, a psychiatrist opinion overrides the GP, let hubby stay on meds till reviewed by a psychiatrist (might need new referral if > 12months). Its a difficult balance. Does he do any meditations, mindfulness, walking and go to therapy? All these things combined can help more than tablets for some. Hugz xox

[Phoenix_Rising]

@Shaz51 It took me twenty years to find a GP who put any effort into understanding my mental health stuff! I only found this one by accident when my regular GP was booked up last year. For the first time in my life I understand the point of people suggesting I go to my GP when I'm struggling - before finding L this had always seemed nonsensical to me because all my previous GPs have shown zero interest in my MH. I would definitely not hesitate to get a second opinion...and a third...and a fourth...although I well know how utterly exhausting it is to have to tell one's story over and over and OVER again!

[Shaz51]

Thank you @Phoenix_Rising @Former-Member 

Hubby has taken both meds tonight

yes we are actually seeing a new GP on monday ,so have to see how it goes

I know hubby saw a really good specialist in 2015 and since then all the Gp`s just give him a repeat , until now and this is the first blood test since then xx

[Former-Member]

Sounds very confusing for you both @Shaz51 I thik you need more information which you will hopefuly get at your next appoitnment

hugs

[Former-Member]

@Shaz51 I'm really sorry you are having this stress at the moment. Crossing fingers for you both that the appointment on Monday offers some options. 

[Former-Member]

Hi @Shaz51.  I have to agree with @Former-Member - keep hubby on the meds until he sees his psychiatrist.

You said your hubby had to have blood tests, but you didnt say whether you had received any results yet. But certainly if after such a short time off the meds he is already suffering a severe setback, then any reduction or cancelling of the meds should be done with your psych's approval and monitoring.  Yes it may be hard to get him there, but it is very important.  He must see that, especially as he wishes to continue to work.  That sounds like good incentive to get him there.

Hugs to you Shaz.

Sherry