Symptoms: Akathisia, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, neuropathy, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
I am a 23-year-old from Nepal, and I am writing to share my personal medical experience, which has deeply affected my mental health, identity, and quality of life. Below is a timeline of my experience:
April 2023: I was diagnosed with a single episode of psychosis and prescribed olanzapine.
September 2023: I developed severe sexual side effects. My doctor reassured me that these effects would disappear after tapering off the medication, but they did not improve.
April 2025: Under medical supervision, I discontinued the medication since my condition was classified as a single episode of psychosis after 2 years. I had developed IBS (mucus in stool) due to these meds, as well as light insomnia, which I have to this day.
August 2025: I went to a sexologist but did not improve much from the supplements he prescribed.
November 2025: Due to anxiety again, my parents pressured me to restart medication. Initially, olanzapine was prescribed again, but after I explained my condition and concerns about persistent sexual dysfunction, the doctor changed the prescription to Abilify. I was again assured that the side effects would resolve after changing medication, as Abilify does not have sexual side effects, yet the symptoms persisted.
December 2025: I was forcibly hospitalized after developing severe distress and suicidal thoughts due to PSSD—especially the sexual dysfunction from antipsychotics (olanzapine and Abilify in my case) and SSRIs—which I believe were strongly connected to medication side effects and ongoing sexual dysfunction. During hospitalization, I was treated with Benzex (Trihexyphenidyl), which made my condition worse, and Abilify, and I was told that sexual functioning was not important because I am unmarried.
Today, I feel as though my physical and emotional wellbeing has been permanently damaged. I am currently being compelled to continue medication despite my fears and worsening mental state. I feel unheard, powerless, and increasingly hopeless.
I am reaching out because I want my experience to be heard—not only for myself, but for others who may be silently suffering from similar medication-related conditions. Sharing this story publicly could help raise awareness, encourage informed consent, and support patients facing similar struggles. There is no psychiatrist who would listen to me in a third world country like Nepal.