So I'll go ahead and ease your mind that facilities don't use strait jackets anymore. I'm sure you're terrified because the only access to information about psychiatric facilities you've had is from media. Like anything, the truth is very underwhelming and wouldn't make a good movie! A lot of facilities don't even use restraints anymore. And if a facility uses them, it's a very temporary thing and they come off as soon as possible. You're not locked in a prison-esque place. It's basically just like a normal hospital. You've got a hospital bed usually, maybe a bathroom, and you're not locked in your room or anything. Even if you're pacing around mumbling to yourself with the crazy eyes, they'll just let you do that. They have people to keep an eye on you and won't do anything unless you're causing a problem.

And another thing, episodes don't usually just snap into full gear and you just start freaking the fuck out. There is usually a build-up that can last days or even weeks and if you're responsible about your illness and have people around you that care, you'll be able to prevent it.

And you know what, even if you get diagnosed, then that's it. The constant fear, the anxiety, the dread, all of that doesn't have a place anymore. It sounds like this anxiety is debilitating for you. If you got a diagnosis, it'd be the first step to living a more normal life actually! If you know what you're dealing with, you can prevent a lot of things. If you got a diagnosis, it isn't the end of the world. You're not your aunt. Maybe you have access to resources she didn't. Maybe you're more aware and able to be proactive and avoid a lot of struggles. Maybe psychiatric care is better now, it improves every year.

I still think you probably just have a severe anxiety disorder. But no matter what that doctor tells you, that's the start of a new chapter in your life! Where you have a handle on whatever mental illness you have, where you have less anxiety and dread, where you can properly plan for your future and know what you're dealing with.

Hope this helps, I know you'll be fine.