Soosoo
30-03-16, 19:14
I would really appreciate any response at all. My health anxiety is worse than ever. It has been progressing for many years now and I think I've ended up this way because of several illnesses and deaths in my family. I also cared for my mum in law who passed away recently from Alzheimers. I was there with her through it all and as she died, and now at the route of my anxiety is that I'm going to die and leave my husband all alone.
The main worry is Cancer. I'm petrified of terminal illness and most of my worries (persistent cough - lung cancer. Headaches - brain tumour etc) revolve around it. Lately the smallest thing sends me into panic. It's gotten so bad that now, even when I'm not worrying about anything specific, I'm terrified that I'll find something soon. My anxiety has become a phobia itself! I'm scared to check my breasts every month in case I find a lump, because I know what state I'll be in if I do.
I can't function when I worry and I'm exhausted trying to stay distracted all the time. I'm going on holiday in less than a week and I'm unable to relax and look forward to it. Health anxiety sucks the joy from everything and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.
I'm wondering if anyone out there can relate to this at all and if so what you do to help yourself?? I tried CBT and found the thought diaries repetitive and unhelpful. I have heard of Mindfullness and wonder if that works at all? Any advice or others personal experiences with this would be amazing. I feel so alone. If you have read this till the end thank you so much!
The main worry is Cancer. I'm petrified of terminal illness and most of my worries (persistent cough - lung cancer. Headaches - brain tumour etc) revolve around it. Lately the smallest thing sends me into panic. It's gotten so bad that now, even when I'm not worrying about anything specific, I'm terrified that I'll find something soon. My anxiety has become a phobia itself! I'm scared to check my breasts every month in case I find a lump, because I know what state I'll be in if I do.
I can't function when I worry and I'm exhausted trying to stay distracted all the time. I'm going on holiday in less than a week and I'm unable to relax and look forward to it. Health anxiety sucks the joy from everything and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.
I'm wondering if anyone out there can relate to this at all and if so what you do to help yourself?? I tried CBT and found the thought diaries repetitive and unhelpful. I have heard of Mindfullness and wonder if that works at all? Any advice or others personal experiences with this would be amazing. I feel so alone. If you have read this till the end thank you so much!