Something needs to change

[Elly_H]

Hi All

I am a long-term sufferer of social anxiety and panic disorder. I have been unemployed for the past 3 years, and am forced to study online due to my mental health. I feel like I'm wasting away as i sit at home EVERY day. I fantasise about a better life, one where I am confident and capable. I want it so badly. And i need a change now.

My partner is ready to buy a house. I want to live with him, but I can't live with the idea of not meeting him halfway for payments etc. He is so supportive of my condition, and is in no way forcing me into the workforce. However, this is something that I want. I want to be active. I want to start using my brain again. I want to feel normal.

I have tried anti depressants. They didn't work. I have tried Beta blockers...they work to an extent, but my panic can be so severe sometimes that nothing seems to help. I feel like the next step for me is to talk to my doctor about something a little stronger. Something to take the initial edge off entering the work force again. As soon as i become familiar with an environment and the people within it, my anxiety disappears. Does anyone have any experience with low doses of benzos to help with panic? Is it a good idea to ask for this option from my doctor? I'm actually seeing my doctor later today, so am feeling nervous about the whole idea.

[Chris_B]

Hi Elly, welcome to the forums.

We're unable to provide medical advice here on the forums, any of your medication-related questions would be best directed to your GP when you see them later today. 

You might want to have a look through some threads in the Staying Well and Employment and Workplaces forum for tips on how others have coped in situations similar to yours. Things can improve from where they are right now - for a start, congratulations on keeping up with your studies, doing degrees online is now very common and it sounds like even though you're struggling you're still working towards some goals. 

Medication isn't a solution for everyone. Have a look through these beyondblue resources at some of the other treatments that are available:

A guide to what works for anxiety

[Doolhof]

Hi Elly,

I'd like to welcome you to the forums as well.

I'm wondering if you have considered trying some volunteer work as a test run for getting out of the house and being in a work environment?

You could contact the local volunteer centre and ask what is available. Explain your situation and they may be able to place you somewhere.

It may well be a win-win situation. An organisation will receive some much needed help and you will gain new skills, an idea of how you will cope in a different environment and your self esteem and confidence will grow.

I have managed to secure paid positions through starting with volunteer work.

This might not be for you, but give it a think.

Are there opportunities for you to be able to work from home?

Start writing down some of your skills and what you are good at and consider where you would like to work.

I hope you Drs. appointment was productive. Sometimes we need to try different medications before the Dr is able to find one that is suitable.

Hope some of this has been helpful to you.

Cheers for now from Mrs Dools or Lauren