Do antianxiety medications cause emotional numbness?

Hello doctor,

I wanted to share some information about my journey and seek your guidance in finding a suitable solution for my ongoing anxiety. Currently, at 35 years old, I have been dealing with high levels of anxiety for the past 15 years. Initially, I was prescribed the tablet Zoloft, but after approximately five years, I was switched to the tablet Lexapro due to its ineffectiveness. Following another 5 years on Lexapro, I was then put on tablet Pristiq. However, after a total of five years on Pristiq, I decided it was time for a change. Throughout this medication journey, I experienced a consistent side effect - emotional numbness. This transition significantly impacted my overall disposition, as I went from being an active and outgoing individual to feeling distant, uninterested, and experiencing a lack of emotion.

To gain more insight into my mental health, I underwent an extensive evaluation, which revealed that I not only have general anxiety but also ADHD(expand). This breakthrough provided me with a newfound understanding of certain aspects of my life that had previously eluded me. Presently, I am taking 30 mg of tablet Adderall XR, which has been quite beneficial. Additionally, I have successfully tapered off Pristiq, and I believe that a substantial amount of the emotional numbness has dissipated since discontinuing the antidepressant. My mother, who has observed these changes over the years, finally feels like she is reconnecting with the person I used to be. It is been a positive transformation for both of us.

Now, my primary concern is addressing the persistent anxiety that continues to affect my daily life. My doctor suggested tab Wellbutrin as a potential solution, but I must admit, I am apprehensive about the possibility of returning to that foggy, emotionally numbing state. Is there an alternative medication I could take that would alleviate my anxiety without causing emotional numbness?

Ideally, I would like to maintain Adderall to manage my ADHD symptoms. In addition, I am open to exploring the option of a mood enhancer, as mentioned by my doctor. While Adderall has helped reduce my anxiety and bring some order to the chaos that likely contributed to it, I still require assistance in addressing my current anxiety levels. I understand that I may not have complete control over the situation, but I hope to find a balance where I can have the:

1. Adderall to manage my ADHD.

2. An anxiety medication that alleviates anxiety without inducing emotional numbness.

3. A means of addressing the remaining depression and emotional numbness, which has significantly improved since discontinuing the antidepressant but still lingers to some extent.

To illustrate the impact of my anxiety, I recently took my family on a trip hoping to find peace and tranquility. Unfortunately, I found myself unable to unwind and remained a bundle of stress throughout the vacation.

I would greatly appreciate any assistance or guidance you can provide in helping me navigate this situation.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to read about my experiences and for your support.