Crossroad About Preventative Meds

Hi,

Short history:
Migraines, did the SEP, been working on TMS since May. Had great progress but still have daily headache sensations and migraines went down about 50%. Anxiety also went way down.

Dilema:
I went to see my migraine specialist for a follow up yesterday. I am still on a daily preventative medication which is a beta blocker. It causes me constipation and helps migraines a little but not very effective to be continually taking it. She wants to switch me to Cymbalta.

Since I've been having some success doing the SEP I want to taper off the beta blocker and just see what happens. The problem is there is a small part of me that still relies on it and believes it helps me. It's one thing I know I need to let go of if I truly believe it's 100% TMS. I guess I need some encouragement.

The funny thing is I think my brain saw an opportunity and woke me up with some pounding migraine pain on the right side last night. I can't help but think it has something to do with believing in this med.

I just went on a migraine board about Cymbalta and all I can see are a bunch of TMS sufferers who don't know it. It's so obvious once you know about it and take a look around. So, if I know that then why can't I just let go?

I know nobody can solve this for me but I'm just hoping for any advice or stories that might help.

Thanks gang!

 

You've got to try and break free of that fear cycle. You mentioned you're not sure why you can't let go of at least some reliance on medication. Perhaps the feelings and emotions that are fueling your pain are trying to stay hidden under that fear? Just my opinion here- perhaps the medication will actually make it more difficult to completely cure your headaches?

These are just my thoughts. Just trying to help and I hope I don't sound overly dogmatic.

 

I know, theoretically you are right. I think a part of me feels like my headaches did get better on the meds. I wasn't expecting to have to make this decision about switching so now I feel like it's a test in my TMS faith. At the same time, dang.. I don't want to feel pain anymore and I planned on weening off the preventative after a year of TMS education. So, that's why I feel like there is a pressure to choose. I'm still not sure what to do.
The fear cycle - you're right. I still have a lot of fear of pain. I don't have doubts I have TMS but I have doubts that TMS will actually make this horrible pain go away. I've been trying my best and there has been progress but a part of me is still scared to let go of the meds.

 

All of that is totally understandable. It takes a long time to sort through this stuff. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. When you feel ready to challenge yourself by letting go of the medication you'll know.

I read Sarno's books a year and a half ago, and even though it really seemed to fit me, I wasn't ready to let go of all the other treatments I had in place. Sounds like you've come a long ways already, so be kind to yourself and try to take the pressure off. You will heal in time and the pain will get better.

 

Thank you so much for your advise. It really helps.