Job Discussion Forums

[rbos]

I hope I can find someone who definitely knows the answer the following questions. I have a few disorders (Anxiety disorder, OCD, and some Depression) that in normal circumstances I am prescribed medication for. In the past, I've been prescribed medications such as Zoloft and Paxil.

Since I would prefer not to go without medication for a year while teaching (although I think I could do without if necessary) I want to make sure that 1) Taiwan has a regular, normal, up to speed mental health system (e.g. educated psychiatrists who medicate), that 2) they have medications like the ones I've listed above, and 3) that they won't just throw someone into the mental hospital at the slightest sign of a mental/emotional disorder (in other words, that they medicate on an out-patient basis). I'm hoping the mental health system is similar to the US (where they have psychiatrists, medication, etc.). Also, I wonder, 4) if medications like the ones I've listed are indeed available in Taiwan, then does the national health insurance cover such medications, even though technically my conditions would be pre-existing conditions?

It might at first seem like a rediculous proposition-that health care professionals would just throw someone in a loony bin if they came to them with a moderate disorder of any kind affecting the mind, but I worry about this because I have heard that some countries have very backwards, archaic mental health systems in comparison to the US and they simply don't know how to deal with people who have even moderate problems affecting their mental health. I have also heard that in South Korea (I realize it may be different than in Taiwan) the people generally are very predjudiced towards people who have even the slightest mental/emotional disorder.

Can someone who isn't speculating, but who knows the answers to these questions please respond?

-Thanks

[bellam4x]

There are a lot of medications here you can get without a prescription. I am not sure about the ones you need but maybe have a Taiwanese friend call a pharmacy and ask?

[rbos]

Does anyone know of a good pharmacy in Taiwan (preferably a fairly large size pharmacy located in a large city like Taipei) where they would have an English speaking worker who I could ask if they might have certain medications?

-Thanks

[atreyue]

Hey Rbos

In response to your meds question in Taiwan. Don't worry - I am also a long timer of anxiety, depression and the on again - off again sordid phobia. Taipei City hospital has an extensive mental health faculty that speaks quite good English and will be able to comfortably accommodate your needs by using the exact American brands that you are used to.

I.e. - Prozac, Brotizolam and Apraline ... my new best friends.

Let me know if you need a referral once your feet hit land and I'll send you the names of some nice folks.

[sinophoto]

Well, I've been to Taiwan for a couple of weeks while taking meds for depression and anxiety. Made it through customs without any problems. FYI. My hostel owner in HK found them and called the police who just put me on some sort of watch list. Not a big deal. But, since I speak fluent Cantonese and passable guo yuh, I know when I'm being watched. You'll probably be watched. But I wouldn't worry about it. Taiwan IS a democracy. They treated me almost with white gloves because they knew if I complained. It would go back to the States. So not a problem in Taiwan. As far as the work permit, Don't even think about in mainland China. In Taiwan, I'm not sure about that either. Please let me know how it goes. I doubt if it will be a problem as long as you convince they that you are quite normal. But like I said, don't even think about it in China. You've come to the right place if you like Chinese language and culture.

[rupert shellgame]

Given what passes for "normal" in Taiwan I might recommend that you avoid their institutions at all costs, unless you're up for a helluva learning experience.

[Shimokitazawa]

[Ishi]

I'm wondering if there are any questions for immigration regarding mental health. Do any of you know the answer to that?