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Huge Setback (two big blows in two days)

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Posted 9/26/2013 3:48 PM (GMT 0)
So as any of you who have read my other posts know I suffer from pretty bad health anxiety but have been getting steadily better in the last three weeks as I am adjusting to my cipralex well that has all gone out the window as i have been devestated twice in the last two days and I feel like i am right back at square one.

On sunday i got the call that my best friends mom who is like a second mom was found deceased in her bed from an apparent massive heart attack in her sleep (one of my biggest fears is my heart).

and then yesterday I got the letter from my health insurance company that I have maxed out my coverage for therapy for this year and seeing as my wife recently became unemployed (thank you overseas outsourcing) we will no longer be able to afford the $250.00 a month bill for my therapy. We called many therapists who charge based on your income but unfortunately even with my wage and my wifes unemployment insurance we still make to much for financial aid so i have to cancel my therapy all together until my wife finds employment.

so to that point my health anxiety has returned with a vengeance and i just dont know what to do anymore
Posted 9/26/2013 4:25 PM (GMT 0)
scrumking,

Good Morning, this is Kitt.  I am sorry to read that you have run out of insurance for your therapy. I have a couple of ideas for you.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for many people with health anxiety. It involves  identifying the thoughts and emotions you experience and the things you do to cope.

One example of an unhealthy thought is jumping to conclusions like "If the doctor sent me for tests, she must be really worried".

The aim is to change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors that maintain health anxiety to those that break this cycle.

CBT looks at ways to challenge the way you interpret symptoms, to encourage a more balanced and realistic view.

From our resources we have 2 free online site that you may join and work right from home using the CBT therapy program.

Here are the links and all you have to do is register.

Free on-line CBT programs:

http://www.moodgym.anu.edu.au/welcome

http://ecouch.anu.edu.au/welcome

I personally liked the ecouch the best as it felt more geared toward me.

Also, many therapist have group sessions which should be less costly than one on one therapy so you may want to think about that.

There's lots you can do to help yourself. A good first step would be to read the NHS leaflet Health Anxiety – A self help guide - here is the link to the booklet which you can print at home if you would like.

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hypochondria/Documents/Health%20Anxiety%20A4%20%202010.pdf

Remember you can always come here and talk with us.

My deepest sympathy at the death of your "second Mom" and for now just sit and remember her for all the good times she provided for you and your friend. Do not get caught up in thinking your going to die, we all die sometime but I do not believe it is time for you yet as you have a lot of living to do.

Kindly,

Kitt

Posted 9/26/2013 4:37 PM (GMT 0)
S.K.

Great advice and resources for you here from Kitt...

I just wanted to add my sympathies for the loss of your dear loved one.

Anxiety spikes due to shocking and sad news such as this are normal and expected.

Be patient with yourself and the process of recovery during this time while you grieve.

Use those coping skills, and know that we are here for your support. We care and are listening, so keep posting.

S.C.
Posted 9/26/2013 4:44 PM (GMT 0)
Scrumking-Sorta in the same situation myself. Unemployed and sliding scale counseling takes into consideration my partner's income, which means my fee will be 250 a month, as well.

Not sure if I can swing it.

CBT does help, as does mindfulness.

Blessings, dude.
Posted 9/26/2013 4:54 PM (GMT 0)
And trying both today, I might add. Whenever I pull up a job search website I burst into tears.
Posted 9/27/2013 6:12 AM (GMT 0)
I had a good job and still could not afford one on one therapy, I did find a group and it really turned things around for me. Peace

Larry ***
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