End of a tough week...

Woke up early today to hit the weekend sports activities for the kids (ages, 10, 7 and 5) three soccer games at three different fields at three different times. No complaints, except that the ringing in my ears is really starting to bother me. The sunlight was also giving me a massive headache. I’m going to try to lay low today and get some rest.

Yesterday was probably my worst day so far regarding the tapering process. I got a lot of work done, but my head was throbbing all day. I was also very short tempered. We took the family to a local high school football game last night and the car ride over was brutal. The kids were really excited, which was great, but the pitch of their voices rang like a chainsaw in my head. Being a good dad I smiled through the pain – and they all had a good time.

Next week looks really good for interviews – I’ve made some great contacts and everyone seems to be very receptive to the project. I’ll keep you posted.

The Process Begins

This past Monday, Phil began the process of decreasing his Paxil dosage. His doctor said he should expect it to take at least six weeks before he is Paxil-free, that is if things go well. Since Wednesday, he's been experiencing what he compares to a "sleep hangover". There's a slight delay between his physical actions and his brain acknowledging he did them, akin to a whooshing effect. I would add that he seems more physically and mentally active than usual.



Image filmed by Bob Seabold at Phil's home on September 25th.

Today, Phil said he woke up to what sounded like a Windex bottle being squeezed behind his ear. It took him a few minutes to realize it was only in his head. As the morning progressed, it became less apparent. This afternoon, he's enjoying a severe headache. He also appears to be sensitive to sunlight.

Phil's Physical

On September 1st, Phil had a physical exam with his new physician. Everything went smoothly, and no abnormalities or concerns were found. Phil shared his history of Paxil with his doctor, and explained his intention to stop taking the SSRI.


These images were filmed by Bob Seabold.

Official Film Blog Goes Live

Welcome to the official blog of Uncomfortably Numb, a documentary about seeing the world through pill-bottle brown. This blog will give a behind the scenes look at the making of the film, as well as the progress of filmmaker Phil Lawrence as he stops taking the SSRI, Paxil. More updates will follow shortly as we play catch-up with what has happened so far; in the meantime, please feel free to visit the official site for more details about the film.