I am writing on the behalf of my mother who has been diagnosed with a severe panic disorder several years ago. We live in Portugal, and have consulted throughout more than 20 years several Psychologists, Psychiatrists, professionals who have these two credentials but at the end, they all end up to have a blank look on their faces and admit that there's nothing more they can do. So the search for another professional starts and a whole new cycle stars with it again and again. Now that she's facing a really bad period, I decided to search for help online, outside of our country. That brings me to my question: Is it possible to consult any of the doctors online? To deeply explain the situation and have periodic consultations live, through msn or something similar? If not, is there something you can advise? I have to say that she doesn't travel, she doesn't work, and now she can't even go out, eat, or stay home by herself. All these give her panic. We really are at a complete loss at the moment. I thank you in advance for your attention.
Dear Filipa,
Thanks for writing in, it sounds like your mother has been through quite a lot trying to find help for her panic disorder. Hopefully I can give you some resources that will help you find a way to get some help.
I know you said your mother cannot travel, but I want to tell you about a wonderful weekend treatment program in North Carolina. You can at least visit their website and get an idea of what an intensive treatment program would be like. Also, they have some good self-help materials that could get you started.
If you need cheaper self-help materials, there is an excellent book called The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook, by Edmund Bourne, Ph.D. Also, Dr. Diana Walcutt and I have produced a CD, Stress Less, that teaches abdominal breathing and relaxation.
There are some Psychologists who will consult over the phone or online. There is research that shows this can be an effective way to treat Panic Disorder, however, it is not an appropriate mode of treatment for everyone. One of my colleagues, Dr. Ken Kaisch, does some phone therapy for Panic Disorder.
Also, be sure you read all the good information about anxiety and it's treatment on this site, as well as the Anxiety Disorders Association of America's (ADAA) website.
Please write back and let us know if you need some more ideas or direction.
Regards,
Dr. Jennifer Fee
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