discodoggie 2 Posted February 27, 2016 I got diagnosed in Jan 2010 while I was in rehab for Coke/alcohol when the crisis centre doc decided to try mood stabilisers instead of just the various anti-depressants I have been on since I was 20. 15years not understanding why I didn't seem to be able to control my life believing I just had to 'pull my socks up and get on with it' and thinking everyone had the high-fliers that could feel like you're on e in a club then the crippling s*****al lows where I'm unable to function or even think about leaving my home and facing the world. I see my psychiatrist once for 40mins every three months which honestly just seems like I'm fishing in an empty pond. So I started doing things my own way and learning coping mechanisms from every source I come across. Owning a dog is a great help and comfort. Not only is the companionship important but a dog needs walks and played with in the park. That means not leaving home is no longer an option. I must admit that when the down hits I switch day for night when there's no one around. I have a 'Happy Fireplace' where I keep items that when I look at them I am flooded with great memories of my family (a pic of my late brother using a phone and toilet at the same time, a carving I did for his 25th birthday, an Alba Buckie which is a Scottish fairy for luck and a year of the rabbit totem that just looks plain scary). One person that has been a real hero for me is my Dad. We never used to talk but now I can talk to him abt anything. He is always there when I need him even tho I can be a real knob at times. At nights I'm on 300mg of Quietiapine, 40mg Propranolol. At mornings 100mg of Sertraline and 40mg of Propranolol. I also have 7.5mg of Zopiclone for the nights my brain won't shut up. I'll leave the panic attacks and social anxiety for another time. Take care peeps, discodoggie. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JOYCICLE 654 Posted March 2, 2016 Great nickname. I'm glad you found us. Getting to the root of your issues will go a long way towards your staying clean. That's great you have to go out with your dog. There are service dogs for people like us. Seems you have found an unofficial service dog of sorts. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jenniferhop 17 Posted March 2, 2016 Welcome to A/C. I can tell you I agree with dogs helping us. I don't know what I would do with out mine. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
discodoggie 2 Posted March 21, 2016 Yeah, Zoom is a fantastic wee pal. She can sometimes tell what mood is on its way (cuddle and comforting for a down and excitement if it's a high-flier) which helps me prepare accordingly. Giving a dog's ear a wee rub is relaxing. Up to 400mg Quietiapine to see if it helps with the late night buzzing brain. DOGS RULE, CATS DROOL ? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
