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On the Frontlines of Medical Misinformation

Age: 36–45  ·  Duration of use: 5+ years  ·  Current status: Unable to get off
Symptoms: Akathisia, cognitive impairment, insomnia, depersonalization/derealization, suicidal ideation, severe anxiety/panic, GI disturbances

I am a mother of three and hold a steady full-time job.

I was first diagnosed with severe postpartum depression after my last child. Then, ten years later, my diagnosis changed to schizoaffective disorder because every time I try to taper, symptoms reoccur within about six months. I never dreamt this would be my life, constantly medicated and living under a stigma that people pretend isn't there.

The main symptom that I've experienced (from tapering itself) is severe restlessness and the inability to remain still. Unfortunately now, I may not be able to distinguish if some of the other symptoms are the "disorder" or are drug-induced.

I wish none of this hell on anyone and I pray that someday I, and others, will find help that doesn't hurt us further.

Has a prescribed medication affected your life?

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