Pre Information
My recent posting about James, a young man facing endless health challenges, that were affecting him physically and mentally, made me think of a similar story.
Browsing through my old posts, I came across a couple of stories from people I know – friends and colleagues whom I respect. Some have overcome life changing mental health problems, while others have had their lives altered by tragedy. This story is about a time in an adults early life, and hopefully can not happen today with what is known of side effects and long term medication.
What follows is one of those stories:
Mental Health Has No Boundaries: A Personal Journey
The thumping bass and swirling lights of the nightclub should have been exhilarating, but I felt a tightness constricting my chest. It was just like when I quit smoking – the smoky atmosphere made it hard to breathe. I tried to shake it off, focus on enjoying the night with my girlfriend.
But within minutes, the feeling intensified. Dizziness hit me like a wall, my mouth was parched, and an intense pain lanced through my chest. My hands trembled uncontrollably despite the heat of the club.
Thankfully, my girlfriend, the love of my life at the time, noticed something was terribly wrong. She pulled me out into the cool night air, and almost instantly, I felt relief wash over me.
I remember saying to my girlfriend “I just needed some fresh air,” but deep down, I felt something was wrong.
A week later, on a crowded bus, the same terrifying symptoms returned. This time, it was even worse. I staggered off at the next stop and ended up vomiting violently in a dingy back alley. The nausea and churning feeling left me shaken to my core.
Facing the Diagnosis
My doctor, after ruling out any physical ailments, diagnosed me with severe depression triggered by chronic anxiety. He prescribed a medication hailed as a “miracle drug” of the time with no side effects – Valium.
A Descent into Darkness
The depression deepened. My interests vanished, replaced by a suffocating sense of isolation. I became a recluse, avoiding contact with the outside world. Doors remained closed, mail piled up unread, phone calls went unanswered.
My physical health deteriorated too. Nausea, weakness, bladder problems, insomnia, and panic attacks were my constant companions, along with crippling constipation.
The Long Road Back
My six-month course quickly turned into a decade-long struggle. Instead of relief, I felt the Valium intensified my anxiety. I felt like I was constantly being watched and judged, every interaction overwhelming. A crushing fatigue and apathy weighed me down, making even simple tasks feel insurmountable.
Each time I voiced these concerns to my doctor, he insisted they were the effects of depression and that the medication would eventually resolve everything. But it didn’t just “calm me down,” as he put it; it fuelled a dangerous dependency.
With the help of my doctor and the unwavering support of a close friend, proved invaluable. They helped me navigate the withdrawal process and reclaim my life. It also allowed me to explore a new interest alternative therapies, and find a path towards healing that truly helped me.
The Medical profession these days know Valium is highly addictive, especially with prolonged use. If they knew this back in my day they did not tell me.
My Own Thoughts
This would not be the first time I have read of a dependency forming and while medication may be a necessary lifeline for some, it’s important to remember that there are other effective avenues for treating mental health conditions.
I believe everyone deserves access to comprehensive care that addresses their unique needs. Sometimes, a conversation with someone who truly listens, could be the first step towards healing, and may potentially avoid the need for medication altogether.
Young or old, rich or poor mental health has no boundaries. Let’s break down the stigma and create a world where everyone feels empowered to seek the help they need, whether through traditional medication or alternative therapies.
If you take any form of medication you should always consult with your doctor or care provider before trying any alternative methods. Some of them may interfere dangerously with your medication.
In Post Image by Susan Cipriano from Pixabay
Author: Stuart Lindale.
It may not be reproduced in ANY form.
“© 2020 Stuart Lindale, All Rights Retained by the author”.
The author of this story gave Medibolism.com, now known as Quill And Tales, express permission to publish their work on-line, and has faithfully been re-typed for this page. (shahd 2024)
Note:
Valium is a brand name for diazepam one of a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines a class of drug that works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that calms the brain.
To day It’s primarily prescribed for short-term management of anxiety disorders and as an adjunct to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It can also be used for muscle spasms and seizures.
Courtesy Permission
At the time of first posting I received permission from the Author to post his story on line. However, I have moved on to a new website, Quill And Tales.com which these days replaces Medibolism.com.
This posting from my last website is among others that shine a light on strength and resilience, loss and Healing, and I feel will still offer hope to other people going through life changing situations these days.
If you wish to revoke your permissions.