does anyone else ever feel this way?

For about the last 8 years I just can't seem to totally relax in life without either taking a pill (pain pill or benzo) or smoking some pot. (i've never liked to drink and never would) and having something like a pill or a smoke is calming for me and sort of a comfort zone if that makes sense. Without such things I feel a little anxious and just mostly unsettled. Now I'm not too quick to "diagnose" myself with an anxiety disorder because frankly I am tired of doctors and these med companys diagnosing any and everyone with some kind of "disorder" (when I think it might just be normal ups and downs of life) and then trying to shove some zoloft down their throat so the companys can profit. But I am wondering if this is something that other people commonly feel. Frankly I would rather self medicate with a little natural pot then let these crazy med companys try to sell me THEIR drugs which are unnatural. But because I feel this way -feeling as though I need to have some sort of downer to relax me- is this because I maybe do have an anxiety disorder or just maybe because I've gotton so used to the idea that a pill can help instantly......? Just wondering what someone elses opinion on this would be and if anyone else feels this way. :wink:

Stellablue,

You indicated that you self-medicate by taking a benzo, pain pill, or some pot, to alleviate some of your anxiety. I believe that this is a sign that this is not your ordinary, everyday anxiety that everyone experiences (you know, people who can relax by taking a bubble bath, reading a favorite book, watching the telly, ranting to friends). It could be that you've come to rely on your pills or pot to help you deal with the stress/anxiety. It also could be that you might have an anxiety disorder.

I don't know what to suggest to you---you say you don't want the doctors to prescribe you any unnatural drugs, but you are taking benzo's, pain pills, and some pot (not all of which could be considered natural). My opinion would be that you do go to a doctor so he can properly diagnose what you are feeling. Remember, you always have the option of refusing any prescriptions with which you feel uncomfortable. And, if the doctor feels it is an anxiety disorder, there are a lot of great holistic resources on this forum that you might find helpful. Then again also, if you don't agree with his/her diagnosis, you can still look into self-help techniques to help you relax. The choice is always in your hands.

Try laying off the pot. Seroiusly, I have given it up completely from being a 5-10 spliff-a-dayer, it's hard for the first few days but after a week it's surprising how much clearer your head feels generally and how much calmer you are!!

At least give it a try, what have you got to lose?

Thanks for the replys :)

Actually I did quit smoking pot last year becuase I knew my lungs and body needed a break. And I've been sort of taking pain pills to fill the void and help my anxiety. So *sigh* I don't know what to do right now as I don't have insurance and cannot afford to see a doc about this. I did at one time and was prescribed effexor and I didn't like it at all. It didn't help a thing.

Thanks again

Stellablue,

It's difficult when you don't have the insurance or the money to get the help you need.

But, there's some really good books out there on handling anxiety, I would recommend anything by Claire Weekes, and also Benson's "The Relaxation Response." You can get these at the library, and they should have them available, because they are classic references.

Wishing you the best in your quest...

Stellablue, your description of your current situation rings out loud and clear to me. It seems that you are suffering from an anxiety disorder. I have so many clients who have similar sensations and feelings and also try to control thjem with marajuana and alcohol but please believe me when I tell you that neither of those two substances are the solution... in fact there is nothing you can smoke, swallow or sniff to cure an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorder is 100% behavioural and as such requires a behavioural solution.

Contact us if you want more advice

Charles