Please Help - Tackling Anxiety Overseas.

[f0rces]

Hey everyone, I'm new here and honestly haven't been able to find much help anywhere so I hope someone here can help me.

Basically I'm going overseas for two months next year as part of a study abroad program and while I'm immensely excited I'm also terrified my anxiety is going to act up.

See I haven't been consistent with treatment because my anxiety fluctuates and I kind of used to brush off seeing my psychiatrist when I felt good, but last July was possibly my worst even panic attack I have encountered in all my years of living. What started as my heart racing a little ended in me hyperventilating, coming in and out of consciousness with my leg spasming and me crying really hard as my mum tried to calm me. It also lasted for days; I wasn't able to eat because I was so nauseous which resulted in me being on drips at the hospital. The whole thing was a really long nightmare and I'm not even sure what caused it/how it went away.

But basically now I'm terrified of that happening to me in a foreign country without my family/people who understand my anxiety. My psychiatrist mentioned travel and health insurance (i am required to get travel insurance for the study abroad program), but I don't know how to go about finding insurance that deals with anxiety. My psychiatrist thinks that if anything my trip will help ease my anxiety but of course anything can happen and he wants to ensure I have a good plan set up.

Thanks ❤️

[Teacher9]

Hi,

I can understand your fears! having your support network around you, who know your condition is always peace of mind. Just the thought of a panic attack or having anxiety overseas can dampen the whole experience before you get there. I had a friend who travels overseas every couple of years and suffers from anxiety. She had a panic attack overseas and this is at the fore front of her mind every time she travels. She got help and now realises she won't die from a panic attack (even if it feels like it) but to stop, sit down and be in the moment, slow the breathe and mind .She was also put on some medication which has helped greatly. When we think too far ahead we panic, so try not to think of all the things that could go wrong but think of the amazing things that are going to happen. Spot the signs of a panic attack coming on and stop it in its tracks. You have the power! also don't feel like you have to hide it, tell people you met how your feeling and this will be reassuring. I think when we try to hide it, it makes it worse. Good luck and enjoy.

[GuestYD]

Hi there

It sounds like it could be a really amazing trip.

You mention insurance - a lot of travel insurance policies do not cover mental health admissions. I don't think I'm allowed to link you companies, but I'd google travel insurance and mental health. A few of the consumer websites detail policies and whether a mental health condition is covered. So keep that in mind before obtaining your insurance for your exchange. As your Dr says, it's all about preparation. You might find it goes amazingly, but in case it doesn't you know you are safe.

Good luck.

LC