AIBU to consider taking diazepam for anxiety before tonight?

[QuestionableMouse]

I have a very stressful event tonight at about 3:30 and I'm already severely anxious about it. (Full disclosure, I have PTSD, panic disorder and severe anxiety)

I'm not mentally anxious but I'm having some awful physical anxiety symptoms that my usual coping methods aren't helping with.

I have a small amount of diazapam left over from the week of my mum's funeral in February- they're 2mg tablets and I'm considering taking half to stop the cycle.

Would that be reasonable? I haven't taken any since the 14th Feb so it kinda feels like a step back but I can't avoid this event and having a panic attack terrifies me.

Of course you're not being unreasonable .I take diazepam every time I go on a plane or to the dentist. It's only a problem if you're abusing them which you clearly aren't.
It may be worth talking to your GP though. They might be able to give you some other kind of rescue tablet like propranolol.

Do it.

I got given a box after my dad died and again after my OH died, then again when the anniversaries came round (they were weeks apart). I have a few left and use them on the really bad days.

It's only a problem if you start using them to get through every day life, but since you have a fixed amount that will run out very soon, it's unlikely to happen.

Off course its fine thats what its for its better then necking half a bottle of vodka

I've had Propranolol and unfortunately it doesn't help me. I've asked for something else without any help.

I am so very sorry for your losses. 💐💐💐

Thank you 💐

Definitely let the gp know the diazepam works then. Good luck op, anxiety is horrific.

Yes, I take half a tablet if I get really bad anxiety. It’s fine and good luck for later. Xx

Oh I tried to explain it to the MH nurse who told me I was drug seeking and ended the appointment.

What is said was "the only thing that stopped the anxiety was diazapam but I hate how it makes me feel and would prefer to try something different if possible."

Thank you. Anxiety sucks, doesn't it?

Yes, I can’t actually calm down when it’s really bad without Valium (thankfully I only take a few half tablets a year and luckily the doctor was willing to prescribe me more).

I think it’s sad that GPs are now being instructed to not provide this at all as a lot of people clearly need a one-off dose.

Yes I would take one in these circumstances. No question. It will just take the edge off your anxiety I hope.

I would - diazepam's the business when it comes to anxiety.

Now they just peddle SSRI's with their horrid side effects. I personally think it's preferable to take the odd diazepam so long as you're not taking them all the time. Propranolol doesn't work well for me either (or perhaps it works a bit too well!) - even a tiny dose makes me completely spaced out.

Oh op I'm so sorry. Yes you absolutely were drug seeking- to treat your medical condition!! How utterly ridiculous of the nurse.
Can you afford private? That's usually my answer when I've been failed by the nhs.