Guidance for a brother enduring a difficult trial
Salam everyone, I'm a guy going through a rough time with something called post-finasteride syndrome. Basically, I took finasteride for hair loss last October, and they said side effects were rare and would go away-but they didn’t, even after stopping it 8 months ago. I deal with stuff like not feeling pleasure, sexual issues, deep sadness, panic attacks, and sometimes dark thoughts. It’s taken over my life, and it’s hard to see past the constant pain. Lately, I’ve been worried about how Allah sees me because I can’t practice my faith like before. I still pray, but that warmth and connection I used to feel is barely there. I make dua, but honestly, I’m exhausted and struggling with hope. I wanted to be that strong, committed Muslim man, but now I feel broken. The one hopeful thing is a doctor in the US who’s apparently figured out the cause and is trying experimental treatments. Some folks have shared they felt much better after. I’ve joined his care through online appointments since I’m in the Netherlands, but I’m scared about the treatment and what’s ahead. It’s also hit my wallet hard-I’m a university student at my first job, only working 8 months. Any advice for me? I’m lost and finding it tough to stay positive. Please keep me and another brother in the same boat in your duas.