Has anyone traveled to Australia? I have a trip coming up and I'm not coping with it very well. I have panic disorder/depression. Don't know how I will be away from the US where I know I can get help. Ideas?

Scaredycat, I am sure that people in AUstralia have the same condition as you have. Take a look here at Anxiety Treatment Australia. Their web site states:

Anxiety Treatment Australia provides information on the anxiety disorders, treatment options, psychologists who treat anxiety, group therapy and workshops, support groups, articles, depression, resources, and links.

There is an e-mail address to contact someone in Australia in the organization, as well as a telephone number you can use when you are in Australia.

Fighting depression isn't easy, and don't think that you are alone in the fight. Please keep in touch to let us know how things are going.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Karrow,

well scaredycat, I have never been to Australia. I do understand where you're coming from.
From your situation, it sounds like you fear what might happen when you finally make the big trip overseas.
This really isn't for everybody, and I'm not trying to tell you what to do, It won't be that big of a deal. You will be alright. If you don't just look up my email and letme know how I can help you ok.

Scaredycat,
There is nothing to fear in Australia. You will love them, cause they really do love Americans. The only differance between Americans and them, is the accent. I have worked there twice and wouldn't hesitate to go back again. I LOVE THE PLACE!!! I hope you go.

Thanks for your support! I still haven't made up my mind. I just don't want to fly over there and be stressed out. I'm working with a therapist who is trying to help me and also have to update my meds. Am trying to think of everything I can do to put myself at ease. I know the Australians are nice and outgoing. Hope I'll find someone to talk to over there so I won't feel like a fish out of the water.

Mind the Wallabys Mate, they're a dangerous breed.

Dont' try to play the digeridoo, and what ever you do, don't feed the Kangaroos - mean suckers they are.

Other than that you will do fine.

The end of this month me landlord is Going Down under and every day this week I' been talking Australian at 'im, "Throw a Shrimp on the bar-be" and such phrases that the Natives speak Down Under, told 'im I' keep an eye on 'is dingo* too.



As for Depression and anxienty, they both go hand in hand two facets of the same gem. Take deep breaths, count to ten slowly and you will do just fine.

Trips are stressful no matter the distance. I suggest making lists, like lists of things to pack (an inventory if you will) a list of things you want to see, a list of your hotels/car rental, airline tickets, passport, traveler's checks, etc with addresses (for pass port and traveler's check, local near your hotel) and phone numbers. Carry that in a "safe" place, other than your wallet or purse.

Thus you are "prepared" for the worse so you can "do something" - this impowers you, this provides you with the knowledge that you have things under control - it all helps to relief travel anxieties.


* His dog - I always watch the dog when he travels, like 6 times a year, abroad, cruises back east.... No anxiety for him

Thanks for the great advice. I have made some lists for things to pack. Still haven't received my passport yet but I'm sure it will be coming soon. I still have mixed feelings about this trip but my ticket is bought. Should be quite the adventure.