How can fear be managed in a patient with depression and anxiety?

Question

Hello doctor,

First of all, thanks for this site and that you help people. Last year I had depression with anxiety episodes (diagnosed by the psychiatrist). I did not get any pills. I get well with some kind of psychological therapy. But this year I had several panic attack episodes and neurologist prescribed me Valium to get sublingual during the attack. Now I have some kind of fears, I am afraid when my heartbreaking arises, I am afraid of eating different foods (fear of intoxication), I am afraid of staying alone, etc. Too many fears in my life. I cannot live like this. Can you give me any advice, please?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

We are happy to help. From what you have described of your problem, it seems anxiety is a greater problem for you. It is good that you have improved only on psychological therapy but then whatever has been taught in psychological therapy, you need to continuously practice it at home. Please look up Jacobson's progressive muscular relaxation and practice it 3 to 4 times a day. This exercise will significantly help you gain some control over the somatic symptoms of your anxiety. As far as medicines are concerned, Valium is a medicine which will relieve anxiety to some extent but will make you feel sleepy. If you have been experiencing anxiety episodes every single day or at least 3 to 4 times a week, I would advise you to take Paxil 12.5 mg in the morning and gradually consult a psychiatrist to alter the dosages. But if you have been experiencing anxiety only in specific social situations and require medication only to suppress the anxiety for the time being without feeling sleepy, I would advise you to take tablet Etizola SOS.