Citalopram - how do I get DP to understand?

[skinnyflatwhitetogo]

I started citalopram 10mg 1 wk ago for stress and anxiety. I am feeling dreadful, so low and panicky. I am trying to keep perspective and ride this period out but just seem to be losing it. DP seems to want me better now and if I say I'm feeling low or haven't slept he asks why...I feel like I have to keep justifying this and apologising for myself. He is also upset that I don't want to go for a pre booked dinner with him and his dad this evening. I don't know how to make him understand.

I really want to get in my car and drive away from it all, even just for 1 night and be alone...I have an 18mo DS who is at nursery. Do you think this is a good idea? I have thought about calling my Dr but I'm worried if I say I am feeling like driving away from it all he'll read that as suicidal and I don't think I am.

You sound so upset and worried. The problem with stress and anxiety is that if someone hasn't suffered themselves, then it is often difficult to understand the strain that person is under. Your DP must be very worried about you and so naturally wants you to be better but obviously doesn't understand that this is going to take a while. Would he be agreeable to looking up symptoms online so that he could understand better? The nhs site is good with clear information.

If you are in need of extra help, you should contact your gp. Your gp might also be able to provide you with some factsheets which you could give your DP.

Hope that helps a little

Thanks for the kind words Fanta. I've been to my GP as I really felt I was at breaking point earlier. He advised me not to go off anywhere on my own and has increased my dose. The chat has helped calm me a bit. I'm going to suggest to DP to look at the NHS website later. Thanks again.

It will take much longer than a week for the citalopram to get to it's full effect, he needs to support you, ads are not magic and take time to get to a treatment level in your system. But you WILL get there! One day soon you'll just feel better able to cope! It's truly a revelation when it happens! Good Luck! You're doing really well!