Depression/Anxiety/Panic attacks

[rie'smom]

Should I bring a note from my doctor in order to receive a GAC? I would like to stress that I might not need it at all, however, at any time, I might have a meltdown-that is the hell of these issues. I'm on antidepressants and I do have Xanax(which I do not like to take except in emergencies). Will Guest Services give me a rough time because I'm an adult or do you recommend me bringing something from my doctor? Being in a crowd with people too close can bring on the panic attacks, however, I'm scheduling my trip when the crowds are likely to be smaller. I just want my family to have an enjoyable time. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

A Doctor's note will not help at all. As far as Guest Relations is concerned, a diagnoses is not useful.

You have to just state you have a disability and what your needs are. They will attempt to meet your needs. However, be aware that a GAC will not be issued to allow total bypass of lines.

If you have not yet done so, click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. One of the top items is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information. Post #6 discusses the GAC.

Or, if you want an easier route to the FAQs, click on the link in my signature.

 

[KPeveler]

You just need to be able to tell guest services your NEEDS (not your diagnosis).

I also have anxiety problems and a neuro disorder that makes me ULTRA sensitive. I just spoke with guest services and they helped me get what I needed to enjoy the parks.

As CF said, you cannot skip lines, but Guest Services may still be able to help.

 

[rie'smom]

Thank you both very much! I appreciate the information.

 

[jmartinez1895]

I just wanted to let you know that we have found that the best way to avoid a lot of people on the most popular rides is to go during parades and firworks. It seems that the mass gos that way and you will not have to deal with as many people.

 

[LilyWDW]

Thank you both very much! I appreciate the information.

Just a suggestion for you...

I would look into something like Touringplans.com or TourguideMIKE.com. Both of these sites (for a small fee) will give you information on the best days to go to which park during your visit as well as ride order to keep your waits (and thus crowds) to a minimum. Also, make sure to use fastpass... this is really the BEST way to minimize the amount of time you may be stuck in line.

 

[rie'smom]

Thank-you both very much. Those are very good ideas.

 

[SueM in MN]

Just a suggestion for you...

I would look into something like Touringplans.com or TourguideMIKE.com. Both of these sites (for a small fee) will give you information on the best days to go to which park during your visit as well as ride order to keep your waits (and thus crowds) to a minimum. Also, make sure to use fastpass... this is really the BEST way to minimize the amount of time you may be stuck in line.

I was going to also suggest TourGuide Mike or something like RideMax too.
TourGuide Mike is a sponsor of the Theme Parks Board, so you can find a link at the top of that board.

Many people have posted that using one of those services helps them to go to almost all attractions with no more than a 10 minute wait.
Used along with a GAC, this would probably help you a lot (potentially even more than the GAC will); some attractions don't have any accommodations available, but the touring plan would help with those attractions too and also with waits outside of lines by putting you in the least places.

 

[kaffinito]

I have anxiety issues/crowd issues/ panic attacks as well. It helps me A LOT if we take a break and leave the parks in the afternoon. I also take mini breaks in out of the way places to get some "quiet" time so I won't have a meltdown.

Once such place for me is outside of the bathroom between Adventureland and Frontierland. There is a CM entrance off to the side and a short brick wall. You can sit there and be out of the noise for a bit.

I also do a lot of touring at night for EMH hours and also go on rides during parades and the fireworks. It does help out a lot for me. I started changing the way I tour after a very embarrassing meltdown at AK followed by another meltdown the next day at MK. While in line.

 

[rie'smom]

I have anxiety issues/crowd issues/ panic attacks as well. It helps me A LOT if we take a break and leave the parks in the afternoon. I also take mini breaks in out of the way places to get some "quiet" time so I won't have a meltdown.

Once such place for me is outside of the bathroom between Adventureland and Frontierland. There is a CM entrance off to the side and a short brick wall. You can sit there and be out of the noise for a bit.

I also do a lot of touring at night for EMH hours and also go on rides during parades and the fireworks. It does help out a lot for me. I started changing the way I tour after a very embarrassing meltdown at AK followed by another meltdown the next day at MK. While in line.

Thanks for the hide away spot.