Hi, I have been professionally diagnosed with GAD and panic disorder. Lately, I believe I have developed additional mental health problems and my current medication treatment is insufficient. I’ve contacted a handful of therapists looking to set up appointments and start therapy/CBT sessions. 

However, I’m in the US and my healthcare system sucks, so nothing will happen as fast as I need it to. I don’t want to rely on calling crisis hotlines anymore. I appreciate the help they provide but I would really like advice on how I can cope (in a healthy way) while waiting to start new treatments. 

My symptoms include shortness of breath, panic attacks, shaking, obsessive, repetitive, and intrusive thoughts, insomnia, lack of motivating, constant worrying — anyone who’s gone through similar probably knows how it is. Right now I’m basically experienced these all day long. A recent ongoing stressful event in my life has pushed me over my regular tolerance level. 

What are some healthy ways I can manage symptoms on my own? How can I stay motivated to wait out the time it’ll take before I can actually see a therapist and get help? I feel desperate and isolated and like I won’t mentally survive long enough in my current state to get there. I can’t sleep and I can’t do anything besides sit on my bed stressing out. Any suggestions are welcome, and thank you for reading.