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Hypochondriac / panic attacks

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 5/8/2013 7:56 AM (GMT 0)
I have been a hypochondriac ever since I was 7 . It use to not be all that bad just always thinking I was sick. I'm only 21 and have a huge fear of death. My mind is always racing telling me I have some fatal disease/condition. It really takes a toll on my family. I even have quit or got fired from many jobs due to my panic attacks over health problems. I finally am seeing a therapist but I'm just sick of feeling this way. I just want to be more in control of
My mind. I feel as if I have none and it really sucks. Does anyone else feel this way or is it just me?
Posted 5/8/2013 8:09 AM (GMT 0)
I forgot to add that I don't even want to take medicine because I'm terrified of all the side effects they have. It's hard for someone to help me when I won't even let them do the best they can. I would really like to have a natural solution. I hate being all drugged up on those anxiety medicines. I have tried them all and always stop taking them for some reason. I just really need help before I hit rock bottom.
Posted 5/8/2013 8:55 AM (GMT 0)
I can relate 100%. I also fear taking medication. I'm so glad you've started therapy though, that's a huge step to recovery. I go to CBT therapy myself and am seeing a positive change.

As for medicine, I have never taken any prescription medication for my anxiety, but recently I seen a naturopathic doctor and she recommended I take GABA 750mg once a day. It definitely makes me more relaxed and not so on edge 24/7. I just want you to know you are not alone and you will get thru this. I'm a 24 year old female and have been a worry wart a long as I can remember. The important thing is recognizing you have a problem and getting help. Your already on the right path :)

Keep posting,there are amazing people that will help tremendously and answer almost any question! Were are here for you, best of luck :)
Posted 5/8/2013 2:30 PM (GMT 0)
Hi ILJ,

I am sorry that you are going through this. :( I know how it feels and it is no fun.

I am so glad to here that you have sought help in the form of therapy  As JPE mentioned, CBT is very effective in treating health anxiety. I too went through it, and am now able to manage my anxiety really well, and no longer have panic attacks.  It does take time and effort, so be patient...it will start to take effect!

I can also recommend looking into our Resources here on our main page (1st post) It is full of great ideas for things that you can be doing at home to relieve your anxiety. These coping mechanisms will reduce your overall stress levels, helping you to have less symptoms and health related worries.

Finally I will post some links to good books on the subject of health anxiety. I recommend checking them out, and following the advice given in them. Between the therapy , self-help and reading, you should be able to recover without the help of medication if that continues to be your choice. (I did, but I absoluely support the use of meds as well...so don't limit yourself...just do what you feel is right for you!)

http://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-Health-Anxiety-David-Veale/dp/1845298241

http://www.amazon.com/Treating-Health-Anxiety-Cognitive-Behavioral-Approach/dp/1572309989

Keep posting with us as well. We are here to listen and support!

Talk to you soon,

Scaredy Cat

Posted 5/8/2013 10:57 PM (GMT 0)

Ilovejake13 said...
I have been a hypochondriac ever since I was 7 . It use to not be all that bad just always thinking I was sick. I'm only 21 and have a huge fear of death. My mind is always racing telling me I have some fatal disease/condition. It really takes a toll on my family. I even have quit or got fired from many jobs due to my panic attacks over health problems. I finally am seeing a therapist but I'm just sick of feeling this way. I just want to be more in control of
My mind. I feel as if I have none and it really sucks. Does anyone else feel this way or is it just me?


I have this too I think the worse ( cancer ovarian cancer anything) is wrong all the time I also feel like I can't breath and it drives me crazy I don't know what to do it bothers me so much!
Posted 5/8/2013 11:22 PM (GMT 0)
Please know you can overcome this!

I have many times throughout my life..i still have intervals of panic and constant worry but I know it is what it is.

I completely and utterly know what you mean about the meds..I absolutely couldn't bring myself to try the anxiety meds...too much spooking myself out on spooky google and also my mind convincing myself I would not manage all the numerous side affects..

But if it becomes so severe your life is being ruined, your days just a blur of breathless fear and your nights full of terror, then what life is that?!

CBT..amazing, enlightening, a brilliant form of therapy that will help all anxiety/panic/depression. Why not try this before turning to meds? I had my meds for 6mths before I chose to take half (believe me that was a trial halving the weeniest pill I've ever seen before!LoL)

I already take 10 pills a day and believe me I have to convince myself that the alternative is far worse..

LP
Posted 5/8/2013 11:24 PM (GMT 0)
I have pains to real pains it freaks me out :(
Posted 5/9/2013 8:52 AM (GMT 0)
I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. This really helps me hearing all of y'all's stories. I'm extra scared today because I'm going to the cardiologist today to check out my heart.
I actually do have a minor heart condition and I have had it all my life. I even had 2 ekgs done last year but I'm still convinced something wrong even though many doctors have told
Me its anxiety. I can't sleep because I'm so nervous.
Posted 5/9/2013 2:07 PM (GMT 0)
It will be allright, and you are doing the responsible thing by going in. We will be with you in spirit.:)

Here is a quote that may help you feel better:

"Almost everything that I have ever worried about has never happened."

Let us know how it goes, okay?

S.C.

Posted 5/9/2013 2:15 PM (GMT 0)
I am so sorry you are going through this at a young age.  I am 44 and suffer from the same thing.  It gets better at some times and right now I am going through a very rough time.  This is a great place for support and understanding if you are having a hard time finding it elsewhere.  If  you need anything just post and I will be happy to support and talk you down.
Posted 5/11/2013 7:19 AM (GMT 0)
Everything went well at the doctor he said my heart is extremely healthy. The criteria changed since I was diagnosed with my heart problem and I am no longer considered to have it. He also gave me anxiety medicine ( klonipins) for my attacks and it has helped a lot. He recommended a doctor for me to see for the long term. I've finally come to the realization that I've tried to do it without medicine and its not working. I need a job and to not put so much strain on my family and boyfriend. They love me and all but I'd like to be more independent . I'm lucky to have a supportive family and friends In my life. I will always have anxiety problems and I've come to terms with it but I can lessen them by doing things the doctors reccommend and actually doing it for once. Thanks everyone I really love this site it has helped me so much already.
Posted 5/11/2013 1:36 PM (GMT 0)
You have an excellent attitude that is going to serve you well in your recovery!

You are realistic, positive and pro-active...very good qualities!:)

You will improve with the tools that your doctor recommends, and your therapy and have much victory over the anxiety.

Great news about your physical exam and your cardio health as well!

Keep up the good work...and we are glad that you like being here at HW, we are glad you are here too!:)

S.C.
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