Just as last week, I had a better Tuesday. I did the smart thing at around 6:30 am: I took a whole diazepam. My wife wonders why I take so long to admit I need to take an emergency med. I think this was the first time I have taken a whole diazepam since the summer. I usually take a half and it does the job, and then if I need more I take the other half a half or hour later.
I have also started taking more B vitamins. I sometimes forget how important they are for nerves.
I know the medicine does not do everything, but it really helped me calm down today. When I awoke this morning, I was sad that the night was over and that I had to go to work. I did not want to get out of bed. It's not that I hate my job, because I dont, but sometimes you just like the safety of home.
I got good news at work today. I placed first for the month of January for sales by technicians in our branch office. And I placed third for sales leads. I work for a termite company :). I did not win any extra money, but I do get commision. So that was a nice surprise. I also made another sale today for this month, so I am off to a good start for this month. Sales are an extra duty in addition to the inspections I perform.
I did have a couple of uncomfortable moments today toward the afternoon, but I cannot expect to feel completely symptom free overnight. I have been feeling the dissociation or depersonalization for a few weeks now, on and off, so I know that it takes time.
I have a superstition that is affecting me. If I bring a peanut butter sandwich to work and if I cannot hold out from taking a bite until the afternoon, I usually have an episode in the a.m. Not sure if that makes any sense.
I took a step last night that will help. I contacted my longtime therapist about going in for an appointment. The office is now an hour away from where I live, but she's the best therapist I have ever worked with. When I first walked into her office in 1995, I was a basket case. I was on prozac and triavil and was 2 years removed from my first marriage. I could hardly talk about anything without it hurting. She told me that it would be hard work and I might feel bad certain times, but that I would feel better than I ever have once I started opening up. And I did.
I was seeing her from 1995 to around 2005. 1995-2000 was pretty steady and then as I improved I went less and then went when needed. My last appointment was late 2006. Am I allowed to pat myself on the back for the achievement of not needing therapy for 3 years? :-) I think my wife was a big reason. She's wonderful and helps me.
She was very happy to hear from me and said I can make an appointment anytime. I will have to see how I can work this around my work schedule. I am only in the 6th month of my new job and don't want to make a rep of taking off work too often. February is a busy month. The 6th month is when my review is due and then I maybe get a raise. I think winning the sales contest might help.
OK, sorry for running on, but I had a lot to say, and thanks so much for responding.
David