Question

I'm F, 26, recently broke up for 3 weeks. I have been on antidepressant meds for 7 months now but the heartbreak intensifies my depression to the point i can't go somewhere outside without wanting to cry. I puke every morning from intense anxiety. I recently been diagnosed with R-OCD (if any of you is familiar). My parents however are religious and somehow they found out i have been seeing psychiatrist and taking meds. They threw away all my meds and i have been going raw for 10 days and it's total hell now. What should i do? i feel like i want to give up since i feel extremely alone, rejected, and have no sense of purpose again

Answer 1

I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through such a challenging time. Dealing with a breakup, depression, anxiety, and the recent diagnosis of R-OCD can be overwhelming, especially without the support of your medication due to your parents' actions.

Here are some steps you can consider taking:

1. Reach out for support: Talk to friends or other family members who may be more understanding and supportive of your mental health needs. Having someone to share your feelings with can help alleviate some of the emotional burden.

2. Contact your psychiatrist or therapist: Inform them about what happened with your medication and seek their advice on how to proceed. They may be able to help you come up with alternative solutions, such as finding a way to get your medication back or exploring other treatment options.

3. Seek professional help: If your parents' actions are causing additional distress and barriers to your mental health treatment, consider speaking with a mental health professional about this situation. They may be able to provide guidance on how to address the issue with your parents or find a way to work around the obstacles.

4. Emergency contacts: If you feel like you're in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, reach out to a crisis helpline immediately. In the United States, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). For other countries, look for appropriate helplines in your region.

5. Develop coping strategies: Engage in activities that can help you cope with the heartbreak and anxiety, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time with supportive friends.

6. Focus on self-compassion: Understand that it's okay to feel what you're feeling, and be gentle with yourself during this difficult time. Breakups can be incredibly challenging, and it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions.

7. Consider therapy: If you don't have access to your previous psychiatrist or therapist, consider finding a new one who can support you through this tough period and help you address the R-OCD diagnosis.

Remember, you don't have to face these challenges alone, and seeking help from professionals and supportive individuals can make a significant difference. Prioritize your mental health and well-being, and take the necessary steps to care for yourself during this difficult time.