How do I stop panicking about outcomes at just 24?

Question

Hi, doctor,

I know my concern might sound silly coming from someone so young, but I was just diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's two months ago, and I am 24, and I feel like my whole future has just been taken away.

My dopamine transporter scan came back abnormal, and my neurologist confirmed the diagnosis. Ever since then, I spiral constantly, thinking about wheelchairs and not being able to work or have a family someday.

How do I stop panicking about worst-case outcomes at just 24, because I cannot even focus on my treatment plan when my brain will not stop going to the darkest places?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I have read your query and am sorry for such discomfort.

It can be very distressing and overwhelming to be diagnosed with a serious illness. You are not alone, and this question is not silly at all. Anyone could have the same kind of symptoms if they were diagnosed with this disorder.

Such behavior is a normal emotional reaction to a difficult situation. This condition is called adjustment issues" or "reaction to a physical illness." It takes time to adjust to a new illness, and your concerns about long-term memory are real.

However, the condition is a medical disorder, and effective management is available. You don't need psychiatric medicines or long-term psychotherapy to adjust to this illness. You need to give yourself some time. Learn deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, as they will help to ease some anxiety symptoms. Do regular exercise, as it also helps.

Visit a neurologist on a regular basis. Share it with your close people and share your emotions. You will adjust and learn everything as time passes. Although it may seem dark at the moment, this is the adjustment or transition phase everyone faces. There are social groups available for people with Parkinson's; you can join them and learn from others' experiences.

Do not hide or stop thoughts; write them in a notebook at a specific time of the day and write everything, no matter how difficult they are. This will help in desensitizing.

You can also seek help from a psychologist and receive supportive psychotherapy for faster results.

If your psychological symptoms deteriorate or overwhelm you, feel free to talk to me.

Please try to follow up if you find this answer helpful.

And I hope you will feel better soon.

Thank you.