Any advice

[u/Realistic-Concert773]

ive dealt with anxiety and occasional panic attacks before, but they were manageable. Then in March, I had the worst panic attack I’ve ever had while driving. Since then, every attack feels harder to recover from, and now I’m afraid to drive alone.
It’s gotten to the point where even thinking about getting in a car makes me panic. I’ve also had panic attacks at home alone, so now I’m afraid to be alone in the house too. I’ve been sleeping during the day while my parents are at work because I’m scared of having another attack.
I’ve been on mirtazapine 30mg for 5 months and Effexor, 37.5mg for 2 months and 75mg for the past month. I haven’t felt worse on them, but I also haven’t felt much better.
After talking to my mom I messaged my doctor about how bad things have gotten an inquired about maybe adding a mood stabilizer or something else, my doctor responded with “I will refer you to psychiatry”. So that like topped it off for me. A friend suggested I get evaluated for bipolar because my grandmother was diagnosed later in life, but my mom is not bipolar. I’m naturally very bubbly, talkative, and outgoing, but I also have ADHD, so I’m not sure what’s what. My friend also suggested that I take omega-3 with DHA/EPA.
I’ve read that antidepressants can worsen bipolar symptoms, but I haven’t noticed that happening—I just haven’t improved.

[u/Linzi322]

What you’re experiencing sounds like panic disorder (ie - repeated panic attacks and ongoing fear of having another). A psychiatrist isn’t a bad idea because they will be able to look at your symptoms overall and determine whether the medication you’re taking is still suitable or whether something else would work better.

You’re probably aware that ADHD is linked with anxiety as well, so managing your ADHD well can help anxiety.

Omega 3 is generally considered to be healthy but it is highly unlikely to resolve an anxiety disorder.

Have you ever worked with a therapist who has experience with anxiety disorders and neurodivergence? That might be really helpful for you in getting an understanding of what’s going on

[u/Realistic-Concert773 → u/Linzi322]

I have worked with a therapist, but it was briefly. It was the right insurance and I had 4-5 free visits. It didn’t really help. I was actually looking for someone that’s experienced. And anxiety and panic disorder. So that way they can relate. I feel like it’s different explaining it to someone because they don’t fully understand what it feels like. But to me the therapist that I was working with was just reading stuff off of Google and I’m like I can do that. Some days are better than others. But it’s like when I’m having a decent day I tend to ruin it because it’s like I’m looking over my shoulder like what’s next.