Where to get help for panic attacks?

[shimmerstar]

My brother has a really stressful job and has been having panic attacks/possible depression, and feeling crappy. He went to a doctor who said "you need to lose weight". My brother is maybe slightly overweight, but not fat, and I don't think that's his problem. This doc was a general practice doctor. Should my bro try to find a psychiatrist, or some other kind of doctor? I'm worried about him, but I don't really know who can help him with this.

[j*east]

Ugh. I'm sorry for your brother. He should try another dr, or go back to this one, and be very specific about what is happening and how his attacks feel, how long they last, how often, what sets them off, etc. If he has no luck with a regular doctor, or is tired of trying, he should ask for a referral (if he needs one for insurance) to a psychiatrist.

I've had panic attacks, and have been lucky to have good regular doctors, so I never needed to see a psychiatrist. It would be better if your bro's regular dr would see him, though, b/c they can also talk about his overall health and keep an eye on his heart (probably not the problem, but good to check). I don't know if psychiatrists can do that, too. Also, anxiety/depression can cause or be the result of other health problems, so it's good for his dr to know what's going on.

Good luck! You're a good sister to be looking out for him. Don't let him put off getting help, if you can--panic attacks are very scary and (for me) physically painful, too.

[diam124]

You could also look for a psychologist. Even though they can't prescribe medications, they could help him get to the root of the panic attacks if they are psychology-based and possibly help with that and the depression.

[shimmerstar]

Thanks. I will tell him. I just know that he won't want to go back to any doctor, because I'm sure that first one hurt his feelings and made him feel dumb. I am so mad at that doctor! I will keep trying.

[LittleFredPunkinHead]

Does your brother's work have any sort of employee assistance program (EAP) or mental health/substance abuse (MHSA) program? My company's insurance plan has an 800# to call. I was screened for depression over the phone, and then given a referral to a MSW for talk therapy and a psychiatrist to discuss whether medication was appropriate. It was so helpful. The fact that it was over the phone made it a lot easier too, IMO. Not having to look someone in the face when you're saying you need help makes it feel a lot less personal and embarassing.