fear of help

[lea]

how about fear of getting help? how about being petrified at the idea of seeing a specialist or of talking to anyone about the problem? What then, in front of this vicious circle?

[Meg]

Hi Lea,

There are many, many people who have had severe anxiety/ panic and depression and have never told anyone for fear of consequences - they either learn put up with it or learn to get over it themselves.

You are the only person who can cure you of this anyway so it's fine never to tell anyone and get on with it.
This way is much harder for many people - a problem shared etc and want to seek support and assistance to make it easier but it's not necessary.

However I would question whether you could deal with the source of the anxiety as it may be related quite closely with this need to keep things to yourself. Pride and privacy are wonderful traits but can be detrimental in the extreme and be fuelled by the same fear that leads you to the anxiety.

Could you ask here by asking specific questions or raising a point for discussion?

This site is wonderful for anonymity and altruistic support.

Best wishes and Good luck


Meg

Watch your thoughts, they become your words...
Watch your words, they become your actions... Watch your actions, they become your habits... Watch your habits, they become your character... Watch your character, it becomes your destiny...

[andrew]

hi lea

why not try and start by talking about yourself in general, rather than your problems. it might also give you the opportunity to get to know and trust others.

i've always struggled with this and im a long way past the point where i've said it all to somebody or other, anxiety attacking every step of the way. the truth is you have to take a 'risk' if you want to involve others, you might panic attack, your feelings might get hurt, you might not feel helped, YOU MIGHT FIND HELP AND SUPPORT - but you will have show yourself that you thought you were worth it, whatever happens.

good luck

andrew

[Scaredtoolong]

Hi Lea,

I was afraid of getting help too.I was sure I would be told I was dying of cancer, heart, etc or going insane. I have read lots of good books on CBT that has helped tremendously. Dr.Claire Weeks works were especially helpful. One was "Hope and Help for Your Nerves".

You are not alone in this. Susan