Coping with Panic Disorder: Finding Hope and Healing in Australia

Q: Coping with Panic Disorder: Finding Hope and Healing in Australia

Hello, friend in Sydney： I appreciate your detailed description of the symptoms and psychological responses, and I seem to have personally experienced your profound pain. <br>I feel regret that you have had to endure such prolonged and recurring symptoms. <br>The thorough evaluat

What should I do about panic disorder?

Hello, doctor.
This morning I was startled awake by a panic attack, and I'm feeling quite down...
I don't even have the mood to attend class.
I'm currently in Australia, which is a slow-paced, relaxed place for recovery.
I've only been here for four months, so my husband only asks me to "keep him company." Even household chores are optional, and I have three days a week where I can choose whether or not to attend language school, so it seems like a low-pressure environment.
However, my panic disorder has not improved; in fact, it seems to have worsened.
I can't really differentiate, but this morning I experienced symptoms again.
It all started when I was about to enter the workforce; initially, it was just difficulty breathing and nausea.
Because of this, I consulted a pulmonologist, who referred me to a cardiologist, and then the cardiologist sent me back to the pulmonologist.
Eventually, a cardiology expert determined that I do not have heart disease; I only have mitral valve prolapse syndrome.
He prescribed me XANAX 0.5mg to take only when I feel uncomfortable, advising me not to take it unnecessarily.
I secretly saw on his computer that my diagnosis is "panic disorder," so I only take XANAX while at work, trying to avoid it during vacations or breaks, which I have maintained for two years.
XANAX has always helped me breathe easier in a timely manner, but I didn't expect my condition to worsen after moving to Australia.
I started experiencing other symptoms like racing thoughts, headaches, palpitations, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, numbness in my limbs, chills, and even feelings of derealization, extreme fear, and a sense of impending doom.
When I'm not having an attack, I'm constantly worried about when the next one will occur, leading to all-day anxiety and distress.
So, aside from being alone with my husband, which gives me a great sense of security, I still experience attacks...
but I'm not afraid of having them.
Unlike others, they bring me immense unease.
Perhaps when I actually go outside and face crowds, that feeling isn't as terrifying, but beforehand, it always keeps me in a state of fear and panic.
Because of this illness, moments of happiness have turned into stress.
I don't dare go to the movies...
afraid that the intense lights and sounds will drive me crazy.
I don't like going to other places, fearing I will lose my protective shelter.
Sometimes it feels like I've fallen into a deep hole with no way out...
Aside from the mental self-destruction, I still can't find a way to control myself...
the vicious cycle of having attacks or worrying about having them.
In the past, I only took medication when necessary, but since coming here, without any work pressure, my condition hasn't improved.
Perhaps immigrating requires a lot of courage.
So, I started taking XANAX 0.5mg regularly twice a day.
Recently, I saw a doctor who said that XANAX has made me dependent and that I haven't been cured in four years, so he wants me to gradually reduce the dosage to one pill and then switch medications.
The information states that the chance of curing panic disorder is as high as 90%, but what if I am part of the remaining 10%? I really want to return to the fearless life I once had, where I enjoyed speaking into a microphone, participating in activities, leading various groups, and always hanging out with friends.
I want to go back to being someone who works hard when they have money, rather than the person who is now afraid to even step outside.
Thank you, Dr.
Chen, for your response.

Xue Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/06

Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry

Hello, friend in Sydney: I appreciate your detailed description of the symptoms and psychological responses, and I seem to have personally experienced your profound pain.
I feel regret that you have had to endure such prolonged and recurring symptoms.
The thorough evaluations by experts in pulmonology and cardiology have indeed led to an accurate diagnosis; however, the subsequent management was unfortunately insufficient.
Xanax is a shortcut, but it only leads to a dead end of symptom relief without a path to recovery, and it is a medication that can easily lead to dependence and is difficult to taper off.
It is unfortunate that during this not-so-short course of illness, mental health professionals in Taiwan did not have the opportunity to provide you with more effective, comprehensive, and thorough treatment, which has led to the perception of drug dependence while you are abroad.
The good news is that Australia's mental health care should be on par with Taiwan's.
I believe that under the care of a more professional medical team (including physicians, psychologists, and rehabilitation therapists) and a more complete treatment model (including medication, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and physical therapy), you should gradually regain your health, rediscover your cheerful self, and build a happy and fulfilling family.
P.S.
Your symptoms arose from difficulties in adjustment and recurred during another significant life transition; this level of complexity may not be addressed by medication alone, and psychological therapy is indispensable.

Reply Date: 2004/12/06

More Info

Coping with panic disorder can be an incredibly challenging journey, especially when compounded by life changes such as moving to a new country. Your experience of panic attacks, anxiety, and the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of fear is not uncommon among those dealing with this condition. It's important to recognize that you are not alone in this struggle, and there are effective strategies and treatments available to help you regain control over your life.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that panic disorder is a treatable condition. The fact that you have been diagnosed and are aware of your symptoms is a significant first step. Panic attacks can manifest in various physical symptoms, such as shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, and feelings of impending doom. These symptoms can be frightening and often lead to a cycle of avoidance behavior, where individuals start to fear situations that they associate with previous panic attacks. This can create a sense of isolation and exacerbate feelings of anxiety.

In your case, it seems that the transition to living in Australia has intensified your symptoms. This is not uncommon, as moving to a new environment can be a significant stressor. The lack of familiar support systems and the pressure to adapt can lead to increased anxiety. While your current environment may seem relaxed, the internal pressures you are experiencing can overshadow this.
The medication you are taking, Xanax (alprazolam), is a benzodiazepine that can provide short-term relief from anxiety symptoms. However, as you mentioned, it can lead to dependence and does not address the underlying issues of panic disorder. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to explore alternative treatments. Your doctor’s recommendation to gradually reduce your Xanax dosage is a positive step towards finding a more sustainable treatment plan.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for panic disorder. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It can help you develop coping strategies to manage panic attacks when they occur and reduce the fear of future attacks. Engaging in therapy with a qualified mental health professional can provide you with the tools you need to navigate your anxiety more effectively.

Additionally, incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine can be beneficial. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can help calm your mind and body, making it easier to cope with anxiety. Regular physical activity is also known to reduce anxiety levels and improve overall mental health.

Support groups can also be a valuable resource. Connecting with others who are experiencing similar challenges can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing your experiences and hearing from others can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide new coping strategies.

Lastly, it’s important to be patient with yourself during this process. Recovery from panic disorder is not linear, and there may be setbacks along the way. Celebrate small victories and be kind to yourself as you navigate this journey. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and with the right support and treatment, it is possible to regain control over your life and find joy in everyday activities again.

In conclusion, while the path to coping with panic disorder can be daunting, it is essential to remember that effective treatments are available. By working with healthcare professionals, exploring therapy options, and incorporating self-care practices, you can find hope and healing in your new environment. You are not alone in this journey, and with time and effort, it is possible to reclaim the life you desire.

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