This week we interviewed "Dan" who is a 54 year old male suffering from anxiety attacks, Depression, and Neuropathy.

He presently is confined to a nursing and rehabilitation facility and does not foresee being released in the near future, if at all.

His anxiety symptoms began approximately 14 years ago when his drivers license was revoked due to an alcohol-related automobile accident. Fortunately for "Dan", this accident involved only his vehicle and he sustained no serious injuries. However, he was found guilty of DUI and subsequently lost his job as realtor since his conviction prohibited him from driving. It was at this time he began experiencing anxiety attacks on a daily basis and he decided to seek medical assistance. Dan was prescribed Lithium. This medication appeared to work for a short period of time as he was able to return to the work force, but to his dismay, not in the real estate field which he had enjoyed.

Unable to drive, he found it difficult to maintain a job and went from a series of low-income positions which eventually resulted in financial problems. He became too depressed and anxious to work and took the advice of family and friends who recommended he see a psychiatrist. He was prescribed Prozac for his depression; but when even high dosages did not alleviate his symptoms, he was given Zoloft.

His once hearty appetite began to wane and he turned to alcohol to help him "cope with his problems". As we now know, alcohol should be taken in moderation or not at all when using anti-depressants. It was not long before he was hospitalized with malnutrition, alcohol and drug abuse. It was also discovered that he was suffering from a form of Neuropathy.

His parents, who lived out of state, were informed of his severe physical and mental condition and upon arriving in town, were appalled at his living conditions and decided he was no longer capable of caring for himself. It was at this time, they discarded all his furniture and most of his personal belongings from his rented home. He was forced into a nursing and rehabilitation facility upon his release from the hospital and this is where he has remained for the past seven years.

Due to his extended stay in the nursing facility, most of his friends no longer visit him. His father passed away 4 years ago and his mother re-located to California to be closer to his sister. "Dan" feels isolated and depressed and does not know if he will ever return to society but admits he now finds the confines of the rehabilitation center a safe haven.

Had "Dan" taken a more active role in his care or family members been more supportive, perhaps he would not still remain in the nursing and rehabilitation facility.