Posted by Barbara Cat on May 19, 2003, at 12:54:50
In reply to STRESS CYCLE - theory about anxiety treatment, posted by Michael Bell on May 15, 2003, at 22:06:33
Yes, yes, yes to opiods being a missing link. I totally agree and have had the same theory for years. I have first hand experience with this. Having BPII mixed states with severe depression and anxiety at times, I've been on the whole gamut of typical meds which have had the same frustrating see-saw pleasure/anhedonia effect as you describe. However, I also have fibromyalgia and have ongoing monthly scripts for vicodin and oxycodone. I don't abuse them or take them regularly, however I do take them for psychic rather than physical pain. I've learned that when I'm going through a very rough time, taking an opiod will lift me up, help me to think more clearly, and even give me a good even supply of energy. I take a small amount and have had no addiction urges at all. About the only thing negative is the constipation effects for which I take a fiber and greens supplement.
I also agree with Rich about exercise raising endorphins, but severe anhedonia makes exercise very unpalatable. There needs to be more research into finding a way to kick start those endorphins without addiction potential. - BarbaraCat
poster:Barbara Cat
thread:226952
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030514/msgs/227653.html