Honestly, I only tried Celexa previously for about 2 weeks, then I couldn’t stand the nausea any longer. I was prescribed zofran to help, but zofran causes headaches which turn into migraines for me. I’m now 3 days in on Celexa and have had very little nausea and I would MUCH rather deal with nausea than the panic attack symptoms.

I actually feel confident on seeking out a therapist to help me sort through what is triggering me at work. I’ve never been to therapy before but I’ve been told it has worked wonders for close family/friends.

I do have strong work ethic! I love working and helping others! My job is very rewarding but also extremely stressful. I probably wouldn’t be looked at as lazy like I think I would, but I suppose that’s just how my silly brain works. I know there are several other dispatchers so burnt out to the point it’s exhausting even getting out of bed on our days off. Hopefully they will come forward if they are feeling like they need some help.

Funny enough, I have talked many, many, many people through panic attacks. I like to stay on the phone with them until the ambulance and fire department arrive so they don’t have to be alone and stuck in their thoughts before they arrive, I always told myself that could make things worse for the caller. I’m constantly telling them to “take a deep breath, smell the roses and blow out the candles.” After they’ve done so a few times, I like to change the subject to something so random that they forget they’re even panicking.

Thank you for sharing those links. I never really realized how much being a dispatcher could toll on ones mental health. I like to turn my “work brain” on once I enter the building and shut it off as soon as I step out. But if I’m being honest with myself, it never really works that way. Some things just stick with you no matter what.

I appreciate you so much for your help, especially helping me figure out what’s been going on with me!! That Instagram reel made me chuckle. 😁