HELP

[Mobash]

I am passing through a severe spell of a panic attack, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts ... already taking bupropion and quetiapine. but symptoms have bounced back after eight years... my head is always boiling, complete seizure of fear and weeping spells... can anyone help

[rach1402]

Hi, I'm glad you've reached out to the community instead of hurting yourself. Try to distract yourself with music/TV etc but if you can't then call a helpline. They won't be shocked or judgemental, they're used to it and they will know how to help you. See your doctor ASAP and talk to them about it, especially the change in your symptoms and medication not working as well. Do you see a therapist?

[Mobash in reply to rach1402]

Thank God, I found you all,

I have been in Pakistan. Now I have moved to Germany on my Ph.D. scholarship. I reached here two months ago. But this horrible spell confronted since the first week of my arrival. I am insured but don't know the medical procedure. Can't even ask anyone... I have never been with a therapist as I understand It works more than taking pills. Where should I find a therapist? I don't know what will be the implications if others know about my condition

[rach1402 in reply to Mobash]

I'm sorry to hear you've been having a hard time. I watched a documentary about mental illness and apparently it's more common in those who have moved to a new country, regardless of ethnicity or which country they have moved from and to, so that could explain why you started to have problems around that time. It's thought to be due to social isolation. Have the people you've met in Germany generally been welcoming? Do you get involved in student life as much as you would like? Are you able to keep in touch with friends and family back in Pakistan via Skype or FaceTime etc? Do you have plans to visit Pakistan to connect with your loved ones in the near future?

I'm afraid I don't know much about the health care system in Germany and I'm not sure where is the best place to find out. Possibly the Pakistani Embassy? Do you have a counsellor at university or some other kind of support like that? I'm afraid I can't tell you for sure. Perhaps an internet search would be a good source of information? I'm in the UK and here we have Citizens Advice Bureau for things like that.

Different treatments work for different people, I have had more success with medication personally but if you see a doctor they can advise you on what you should do. There shouldn't be any negative implications if people find out you're having problems. Of course there will always be a minority of judgemental people but I find most people are generally accepting. You don't have to tell everyone, as long as you speak to people who can help you like doctors and other health care professionals. You might decide to tell a few people close to you if you want to but it's your choice. I certainly wouldn't prioritise what other people think above your own health and wellbeing. You have been given the opportunity of a lifetime with your scholarship, a bright future awaits you and in order to make the most of it you need to take care of yourself.

I'm sorry I haven't been able to provide much practical information but I hope I've reassured you that you're not alone, there are people here who understand and care about you. I hope you find the help you need and please keep in touch so we know how you're getting on x

[Mobash in reply to rach1402]

Dear Rach 1402 ...

Your every line is giving me a hope. Thanks to this internet I found the people who can understand me. Thank you very much for writing to me in detail. I shall try to do what you suggested. Your words are precious to me. Do you know any online therapist (Well Qualified), who can give some advice on skype etc .?

[rach1402 in reply to Mobash]

I'm glad if I can help you, even if it's just a little 😊 I'm afraid I can't recommend a therapist but if you ask the community as a new post, there will probably be lots of recommendations from people who have had successfully therapy, although it will depend on what type of therapist you need and this forum is intended more for support than medical advice. Again, I'm not sure how the system works in Germany so you might have to do a bit of research.

I will be thinking of you and hope you feel better soon. You already sound more positive so I'm sure you will be fine once you have got the help you need. Sending good vibes to Germany for you x

[Calm_mama]

Hi Mobash,

I'm so sorry you are suffering. I have been there. So very difficult.

Have you seen your doc? If you've had a long respite from suffering you likely haven't seen the doc and it's it is probably time to just get the basic workup done (usually just lab tests).

Do you have a therapist? Highly recommend a good therapist who knows panic and anxiety well

Do you have a psychiatrist? For sure, to tweak meds

Then there's the self help component!

I have listed on my profile my very favorite resources for anxiety, the inevitable depression that comes soon after, and panic. These aim to help people truly recover. Please take a look if you are interested.

Wishing you all the best. Lots of hugs and prayers for you.

[Mobash in reply to Calm_mama]

Thank You Cam Mama...... You are everything for me .. I am thankful to you.. I have been in Pakistan. Now I have moved to Germany on my Ph.D. scholarship. I reached here two months ago. But this horrible spell confronted since the first week of my arrival. I am insured but don't know the medical procedure. Can't even ask anyone... Your reply on my post has given me a hope .........

[Uplift01]

Hi, Mobash,

I'm very sorry to hear you're suffering. I suspect the stress surrounding your move has contributed to the onset of your panic/ depression. I have found a lot of relief by taking red, white or gold strains of kratom, a botanical from Indonesia. It is a potent herb with numerous alkaloids that work on the nervous system. However, use extreme care when taking this herb - ESPECIALLY with the bupropion and quetiapine. I started experiencing quick relief from anxiety/ depression by taking 2 grams of kratom in the mornings and another 1-2 grams in the mid afternoon. However, I noticed that the herb does not interact well with SNRI antidepressants. I have less interaction with quetiapine, but extreme care is still required. I actually started weening off of the SNRI and quetiapine after 2 weeks of taking kratom. I currently take no SNRI antidepressants and only 50 mg of quetiapine at night (as needed for sleep). You can normally find kratom at head shops/ smoke shops or you can order it online. Please read up on kratom before you take it. There's loads of information online. If you decide to try it, start with a very small dose (1 gram), and gradually work up to a larger dose. Take care not to take too much because the side effects of overdose are nausea, sweating and other uncomfortable feelings. I'm not a doctor, and can't offer you medical advice. The medical community is skeptical of kratom, and the herb is controversial in the united states. However, I've found it to be very helpful in treating my depression/ anxiety, and I'm prepared to accept the risks of using it. Just know that it's a very potent compound, and should be used with extreme care. Drink lots of water when you take it, and don't mix it with other substances - especially not alcohol. Godspeed, my friend! You will overcome this episode.

[froggymom88]

Welcome Mobash,

I'm glad you are reaching out here. It is a good first step.Try to stay connected to people as much as possible.Maybe Skype to friends and family. Keep positive as best as you can. Say positive things often I will be praying for you. Sending hugs and positive energy.