Posted 2/1/2013 10:19 PM (GMT 0)
Hi and welcome!
I understand completely. I have overcome panic disorder and have my anxiety under good control...but doctor's appointments and test results are still a big challenge to me. I think it is sort of my last hurdle.
You said it when you stated 'There is no magic answer.' Anxiety is usually a chronic disorder...but the good news is that it can be managed. Accepting that is happens to us time to time, but that we can do things to help ourselves is key.
When I have to sweat out waiting for a result...I struggle with constant what-if thoughts. I imagine bad outcomes, ect. The thing that helps me is to repeat this mantra.
"It is not time to worry about that now."
This puts a stop to the mental cycle of anxious thinking. If I absolutely can't put it out of my mind completely...then I will give myself time to think about it for a specific amount of time. Call it 'constructive worrying.'
Constructive, because for every scary thought, you counter it with a positive realistic one. This diffuses the runaway worst-case senario thinking.
After the contructive worry time is over, go back to the mantra if your mind keep wandering to the fearful zone again.;)
I hope that this helps. It takes a little practice, but I hope that you will be able to get some relief from trying.
Keep posting with us if you feel it is helpful. It has been so beneficial for me! This is a great place of understanding and support.
Let us know how you are doing soon.:)
Scaredy Cat