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Stopping Xanax

Dr. Randall C. Wyatt - 2/15/2008 12:00:01 AM

I have been taking Xanax for a few years now. I suffer from anxiety and it was heightened after the tragic death of my wife. I started in the beginning with 6 mg. a day. I have been taking 1 mg. a day for the past year or so. What is the best way to wean off it now? I feel I can cope on my own without pills. I assume I should take less and less a day but how long till I don’t have to take anything? – David

Tragic death and loss often result in much grief and sorrow, as well as anxiety. Getting support from family and friends is crucial in getting through to the other side of grief and reconnecting to life in a new way. Many people find that sharing one’s experiences of the person, including the grief and sorrow, and good memories, with people who care and are supportive is often a meaningful way to cope and survive tragic losses. Regarding the medication, I would suggest that you talk directly to the physician who prescribed this medication to you and find out tapering off the medication in a way that does not make your anxiety worse due to withdrawal effects from going off it too abruptly. Also, you might consider seeing a counselor, therapist, support group, or spiritual support that fits your needs to find ways to manage your anxiety without medication. The best way to find a therapist is to ask people you trust about who they think could be helpful. Reading books or internet resources on overcoming grief and managing anxiety would also be of use if you are open to that kind of support. Such loss is a tragedy in life we hope never to face, and even though it can at times feel insurmountable, there are ways to get through it to face another day with greater resilience.

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