Out if control health anxiety, what to do?

Ever since I was a teen, I have worried about death and dying. Like, I can drive myself to tears. I am almost 30 now and have two children and now I can't imagine dying and not being here to raise them.

I was on Celexa for a few years and I didn't like feeling like a zombie so I weaned off (brain zaps, not fun) it and now it is worse than ever.

Every bump must be advanced cancer and it's going to kill me and leave my children with no one.

How do I overcome this? Should I go back on Clexa at a lower dose?

I can't live like this. It's been a long night of worrying about things that are probably nothing. I can't go to the md until later in February when my insurance starts.

Any advice?

Hi AM and welcome!

Well, know that you are not alone...and that you have come to the right place.:)

There are so many of us here with the same concerns.  Health anxiety is a topic that comes up here again and again.

You mentioned medication...have you sought other forms of help as well? Therapy and self-help are other options that you may want to consider...along with talking to your doctor about the possibility of re-visiting Rx treatment.

We have a great Resource Guide here:

https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206

Inside you will find lots of great ideas on how you can get started on managing your anxiety with self-help tools and techniques. There are coping exercises...as well as book recommendations and an article/link specifically on the subject of health anxiety. (if you have trouble locating them in there, let me know and I'll glady supply the direct links for you.)

Keep posting with us as well. Support is key for recovery, and we understand and care.:)

Talk to you soon,

Scaredy Cat

AM,

I am glad that you are feeling calmer, and that you have your Rx again to help you through.

Now would actually be a great time to consider therapy. Many people find that when they have their anxiety somewhat managed through medication...that they are open and ready to take their to the next step...and work on long term recovery through therapy.

I would look for a therapist who specializes in dealing with health anxiety if possible. If not, then a good licensed therapist who can take you through CBT is also an excellent choice. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will teach you to recognize and diffuse the negative/scary thoughts that fuel your anxiety. As well as teaching your retraining technuiques in your thinking to make it postive and rational again.

Your dotor may be able to refer you, since they often network...if not, just start looking for therpists either through your provider, or on the web/local listings.

I do encourage you to take this step....and to keep talking with us if you find it helpful.

Keep up the good work in finding your recovery!!

S.C.