How to cope with health anxiety?

[Donna21]

Does anyone know how to cope with health anxiety? I have had this dull ache in my left shoulder blade for months, had X-rays come back clear and seen doctor who has told me it's muscle related, just can't help thinking it's cancer for some reason! I'm so distressed by these thoughts, I keep imagining my children being without me. Lost my mam to anxiety and do not want to go down that same road, as she was a constant worrier of cancer. I'm trying to quit smoking 5 a day which is hard having this anxiety. I am currently on sertraline and have been for over a year which I feel doesn't help much, I really want to see my doctor but feel like I'm being a nuisance although I haven't been since June. :(

[nomorepanic]

Hi

Have a look at the sticky threads in this forum (the ones at the top) and there are some interesting ones there.

[Avasmummy_x]

The best way of coping is changing your mind set. That is the ultimate cure.

Everyone is different. Meds. Cbt. Therapy. Yoga. Meditation.

In my case keeping distracted and busy and avoid dr google.

[Rosiebee87]

Agreed on distraction. Keeping busy, cbt and I'm on day 14 of sertlaline which I think is helping me rationalise abit more. Maybe discuss upping your dose with your doctor?