New here, need to get through a few weeks without access to therapy, not sure how to.

[BorisAL]

So, I've been struggling with severe anxiety and depression fixated on mortality over the last few months. I struggled with this since I was 5, but it's gotten way worse since my childhood dog died and one of my mentors was diagnosed with stage 4 throat cancer. The last few days have been particularily bad. I'm doing better as I write this, but I've days where I spend probably 60-70% of my time only able to stare off into space vacantly while alternating between states of borderline panic and despair so bad I feel like I'm about to collapse if I move.

I have actionable strategies to help with this lined up, such as possibly going on SSRIs and or targeted exposure CBT, and I am actively going to therapy. However, all this has to be put on hold while I travel to see family in a different country for three weeks. My therapist can't practice out of state and I obviously can't get prescribed meds while traveling.

I'm wondering if anyone has ideas to help keep me mentally stable. I'm hoping that being around family I don't see very often may be able to keep my mind off what's worrying me, and I'm trying to join some virtual support groups and communities that I can rely on to help. But, I'm wondering if anyone has other suggestions? More specific strategies or even additional specific community/support group recommendations would be great!

[blackcat64013]

Hi and welcome to your community of caring people.If your therapist cannot provide a session online,

I encourage you to post as often as you like. Members are from round the world so there is usually someone who can respond.

The meds work around is to take a note from your doctor about what you are carrying and keep them in their original box a clear bag.

Take note of local mental health helplines if you need someone to talk to. Having this info before you need it, eases the distress.

Prepare a ICE (in case of emergency) plan to ensure that help can come to you.

Go without an agenda and you may be surprised 🐈‍⬛

[BorisAL in reply to blackcat64013]

I hadn't thought about prepping a plan for ICE, or worst case scenarios for emergency services (brain fog and all), so thanks!

I should probably clarify that the issue with meds is that I'm actually just beginning the process of getting a full evaluation. I would probably be looking to go on an SSRI of some kind, but because it would be a new medication I would need to be availble for regular in person check ups.

Thanks for the kindness!