Hi Neeners,
First of all I would like to congratulate you on doing so well this far. You were nervous to go overseas yet you still did it. You are a very strong individual and I don't want you to forget that.
The thing about any mental illness is that it needs to be managed. Mental Health cannot be cured it has to be maintained. Individuals with panic need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a lot of this is stress management. As I am sure you are aware stress can worsen and even trigger a panic attack. Most people who experience panic first notice symptoms when they are going through a stressful period in their lives. That being said, being alone and away from loved ones is certainly a stressful environment. People need people, humans are social creatures and need interaction for emotional support, leisure, self worth etc., etc., etc. It seems clear that this lack of social contact compounded by the stress of starting a new job in a new country triggered your panic to worsen. Now you need to focus on getting happy and healthy again. This does not mean you need to give up your goals and aspirations it just means you need to put your health first.
Although some people do not take mental illness as seriously as other illnesses the truth is they are just as serious if not more so. I would talk to you doctor about this. Is there an option for taking a disability leave? You would have to look into that. You have to feel ready to go back to work.
If that is not an option you will need to way the pros and cons and make a choice. Are there things you could do to make your situation better? What were you doing or thinking differently when you were away and were not experiencing panic? What is the first step you can take to improve your mental health?
I recommend seriously thinking about these questions and perhaps keeping a thought journal. There you will be able to track your feelings and potentially pin point triggers and irrational thoughts.
We will find a solution together. You can overcome this hurdle with flying colours. Take some time each day to look for solutions but also reward yourself and take time to meditate, exercise, spend time with loved ones and relax. You deserve it and your body needs it.
Keep posting!
Members, any advice?
Ashley, Health Educator