What medication is the most secure option for managing my anxiety following foot surgery?

Hi doctor,

I am a 32-year-old male who underwent foot surgery last month. I am non-weight bearing for a few weeks and have been advised to rest in bed. During this time, I have been feeling very anxious and scared. I have had a couple of panic attacks, and I feel dizzy. My body trembles, and I am constantly looking at the watch or calendar, waiting for the day when I would start walking again. I have been crying uncontrollably and feeling restless and hopeless. I have tried everything from talking to family to meditation, but nothing has brought relief. My thoughts are spiraling out of control, and I am quite sad. I am either scared, sad, or anxious. I spoke with my general practitioner, and they prescribed Clonazepam for a few days, but I cannot take it long term. Initially, my doctor prescribed Fluoxetine, but I was really worried about its side effects, particularly those affecting sexual drive. They prescribed Mirtazapine as a safer alternative. I would like to know if Mirtazapine would work better for me. While searching online and reading reviews on Mirtazapine, I noticed some people say that this medication can cause suicidal tendencies, which really scared me. Is Mirtazapine a suitable medicine in my case? Please note that my anxiety originates from my surgery, and I have not experienced anxiety before. I would also like to add that my doctor advised me to take Clonazepam when required during the time Mirtazapine takes full effect in the background. Please give your opinion.

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your response.

For how long can I take the Clonazepam? And is Mirtazapine a safe medication? I got really scared when I read online that one might have suicidal thoughts after being on this medication.

Hi doctor,

Thank you again for your time; I greatly appreciate it.

For how many days can I take Clonazepam? The sedation aspect of Mirtazapine might be beneficial for me as I am not getting any sleep. What are your thoughts? Although it is prescribed for depression, my doctor says that it is also very effective for anxiety. Would you agree?

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your prompt reply.

What are the risks if I take Clonazepam for more than two weeks? I have been taking one tablet of 0.5 mg Clonazepam. I have taken about seven to eight doses spread over a period of two weeks. I take it only when I get super anxious.

Hi doctor,

Thank you again for your time; I greatly appreciate it.

One more thing I want to mention is that I have not been eating well. So, considering my scenario, do you think Mirtazapine is a good option for me? I do feel very sad and cry uncontrollably frequently.

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your prompt reply.

So, once I complete my three to six month course, is it easy to discontinue it? I have never had anxiety before, and this occurred after my surgery. It is the anticipation of regaining the ability to walk again and the feeling of being restricted and weak that has triggered it.

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Is there any short-term medication for anxiety? My current anxiety is linked to my foot surgery and the fact that my mobility is limited. I know my mental state will improve once I start walking, which will happen soon. Can you recommend some medication that will help me cope for a few weeks?