10 Years Of Abilify

For 10 years I have been devoted to this drug. I have a beautiful loving wife, a 3 month old daughter, I own my own home and bought a new car a few years ago. 10 years ago I was hospitalized because I thought I had to save the world from itself. Today, I am a counselor for homeless youth and young adults. Although I am no longer trying to "save the world" I am now facing a dilemma of trying to preserve my world without going insane. I have a lot at stake. I am much older now. I like to think I have learned a few things about myself and illness. The truth is I hate having to take medication. I was 19 when I first had my break and now I am 30. I was 180 and now I am 280. I carry the weight well but since I no longer have the weight of the world on my shoulders (which was a tremendous amount of stress and sleepless nights) or experiment with Marijuana, I am curious to see if I have what it takes to manage symptoms on my own. My job is hard enough as it is. I don't want to ruin or risk anything but I fear death looming from heart attack. I know I will lose the weight and I don't anticipate racing thoughts if I stop. 10 years ago I was a crazy kid telling doctors that my heart was beating up my brain. 10 years is a long time and I am not that crazy kid anymore. What are your thoughts? Don't worry. I am still taking my meds I just wish I didn't have to and I am not so sure that I do anymore. I don't think I'll ever know if there's a cure unless I am brave enough to try but that's crazy right? I know I am not crazy just maybe wishful thinking.

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No, it's not crazy, at all. The only way you can find out how you are without it is by actually going without it for awhile. The same applies to pain medications and etc. This wouldn't be a good idea for life sustaining medications, but with others, it's always good to find out exactly where you stand.

You may even find that you don't need as strong of a medication, now. You may be fine with something milder, such as an SSRI antidepressant.

Have you discussed it with your doctor? A very slow taper would be best, to prevent the rebound symptoms and withdrawals, which should be supervised by your doctor for your safety.

SSRIs are listed by the FDA as also causing side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, dry mouth and weight gain.

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Thank you so much for your response. I agree. I need to find out where I stand. I have my doctor appointment in a couple weeks. Wish me luck. I didn't mention before but I am taking an anti depressant as well. I used to be on anti anxiety medication but I haven't needed it for many years. I appreciate your feedback.

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