*Health issues>>>Mental Health issues

How do I stop the anxiety and pain side effects when I come off of Lexapro?

Issue
I love the way I tolerate EVERYTHING while taking this, but I have gained 40 lbs and could care less if I don't get up off the couch and exercise....I have low energy, libido, longevity at any task now. This will be my 2nd try at weaning off Lexapro. Last time I no tolerance to high stress situations, couldn't think straight, I hurt so bad I couldn't sleep.....Any advice?

Best Tip

First I hope that you are doing the weaning under a docs eye. Secondly I would consider talking to the doc about an alternative med. One that may not have all of the negative side effects. However If you are looking for a more homeopathic solution first get moving even if you just go for a walk. Exercise releases endorphins that naturally combat depression and anxiety. Also you will need to learn some new coping skills so that you are not so overwhelmed in those high stress moments. And consider trying some meditation, just get comfortable sit, lie down whatever works and breathe in deeply and slowly through your nose and out your mouth and try to stay focused on your breathing. Whenever you feel your mind start to wander bring it back to the breathing. Once you begin to relax and no longer need to focus your attention on the breathing give yourself some positive affirmations something like I am always calm and handle stress well or whatever. And keep in mind. Stay positive, if for no other reason it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.

Others
I am so sorry! That is no fun. I was on Paxil and I used Lexapro to ween off of paxil. Paxil was harsh! Maybe there is something lighter than Lexapro that you can take while weening off Lexapro?
Good luck! I know it sucks but you can do it! Good diet and exersise are very beneficial during this time, btw.
Don't stop taking abruptly... gradually reduce your dose over 4? weeks until your off of them...
please let your doctor wean you off. it is the only safe way to do it.
Yup stop taking it and your main problem is you may have stopped taking it but it's still in your system. In your muscle fibers. Thats what knots are, just toxins in your body that crystallize and stay stuck in the fibbers of your muscles.
If you stop taking it try going and getting a deep tissue massage, that will break up any of the left over stuff and push it back in your blood stream and you will pee it out :-)
ummm...try looking up withdrawel side effects from lexapro....i have taken it before but had no withdrawel symptoms...however i did just come off paxil cr & boy is that rough....talk to your dr about a new med & try to take better care of yourself
Well you are tapering off, right? Take St. John's wort or 5htp. That helped me. Meditation also helped me. Vitamin b complex in high dose helped too. I was able to get off for about a year or more doing this. The achy feeling went away after a couple of weeks but if it bothers you too much take tylenol or ibuprofen.
I know what you mean. I gained a bunch of weight on lexapro too, but I had to go back on it. My depression is chemical and persistant.