07/28/2025
Mark Todd McFarlin
Owner, Southern Shore Mental Health
My name is Mark Todd McFarlin, and I am the owner of Southern Shore Mental Health. At the age of 14, I experienced my first panic attack. Throughout high school, anxiety continued to impact my life significantly. I avoided eating lunch at school due to a fear of choking. By age 19, panic attacks began to severely disrupt my daily routine. During this time, I sometimes relied on excessive alcohol or benzodiazepines prescribed by my psychiatrist. From my late teens into my 20s, I visited multiple psychiatrists, but their approach of prescribing various medications provided little relief.
Eventually, a doctor recommended a support group for individuals facing similar challenges. Attending this group at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Stanton, Delaware, transformed my life. While my anxiety was not cured, I learned effective strategies to manage my symptoms. My mission now is to help others learn how to manage their anxiety.
Support groups offer a safe and supportive environment where individuals can connect with others who share similar experiences. They foster a sense of belonging, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote emotional well-being. These groups provide opportunities to learn coping skills, share personal experiences, and gain practical advice from peers who understand the challenges of anxiety.
If you are interested in attending our support group, either in person or virtually, please contact me for more information.