Finally I went to see the psychiatrist today for my extreme health anxiety

I finally went to see the psychiatrist today. I don't know how can he be of help, but i went anyway because i have enough of the daily struggles with HA.

its rather expensive to see a psychiatrist here in my country.

We talked for an hour and he diagnosed me as having Anxiety disorder, with panic attacks, likely with somatic symptoms, depressive symptoms. he would rate my depression as 45% and Health anxiety 60%-70%.

Was prescribed Escitalopram (Lexapro) and CBT.

I was like err, okay. He didnt think my HA was that bad but to me, it seems like a big deal. I was always alarmed and anxious at every symptoms that didn't go away soon. Like i'm having some cramps in my left abdominal for the past few weeks, sometimes it would feel cramp or pain, or gassy inside, i don't know how to describe. And soft stools with lot of wind. Is it GERD again or IBS or something what??? After meals, i would feel the wind inside and I would feel the urge to poo but no poo... Or is it really somatic symptoms? I'm going to see the gastro doc tomorrow... I'm getting nervous again!!

We are scared to die and we are scare to live. What a way to exist! :(

Post Edited (fireworks) : 5/7/2014 12:46:39 AM (GMT-6)

Thanks... Feeling nervous about the visit!! :(

fireworks,

You will be OK if you just believe in yourself. 

“You have plenty of courage, I am sure," answered Oz. "All you need is confidence in yourself. There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid, and that kind of courage you have in plenty.”   ― L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

 

Kindly,

Kitt

FW,

Awesome job on going in and talking with your P-doc!! I am so happy that you took this step!

I know that it is expensive, and an effort...but it is so worth it all, and I know you will not regret putting the time and work into your CBT!!

I hope that your appoinment with the GI doctor is easy and not too anxiety provoking. I too dislike going in to the doctor's office, but you will feel so much relief afterward.;)

Let us know how it goes, and how you are doing soon, okay?

S.C.

I struggle with Health Anxiety too. Whatever you do, just stay away from "googling" symptoms. Honestly, it's worked well for me with the HA. I too am in CBT and that helps too.

I also just bought a book on amazon just today, called "The Hypochondriacs Guide to Life. and Death." It looks to be humorous which is what we need!! I'll let you know how it is but it has 5 stars on Amazon so hoping it's good!

Peace & Blessings to you!

Lisa