Hypochondria Support Group
Hypochondria refers to excessive worry about having a serious illness. Hypochondria is often characterized by fears that minor bodily symptoms may indicate a serious illness, constant self-examination and self-diagnosis, and a preoccupation with one's body. Many individuals with hypochondriasis express doubt and disbelief in the doctors' diagnosis.
It's my very first time typing my thoughts and fears over here on a forum. Well, all these months, I've always been excessively worrying about my health. Symptoms and little discomfort can bring horrifying thoughts that haunt me repeatedly. Painless bump on abdomen may mean tumor and tension around head, neck and shoulders or even little tingling may mean some nervous system disorders. And the recent fatigue makes me have the urge to have a blood test.
I've witnessed my loved ones falling ill and passing away. I've also read about many people dying very young due to brain aneurysm etc. It freaks me out a lot and I start to worry about myself. The fact that life is uncertain makes me feel frightened at times when I start to think about it.
Sometimes, I really don't like myself to be someone that is filled with negativity. Sometimes, I really want to be that positive influence to people. Instead, because of the unnecessary worries, I felt that I've been burdening people when I complain the symptoms and constantly seeking for comfort and reassurance. The habit of googling symptoms is something that I really want to refrain from.
But other than this, is there something that I can do for myself to get rid of this health anxiety?
I've witnessed my loved ones falling ill and passing away. I've also read about many people dying very young due to brain aneurysm etc. It freaks me out a lot and I start to worry about myself. The fact that life is uncertain makes me feel frightened at times when I start to think about it.
Sometimes, I really don't like myself to be someone that is filled with negativity. Sometimes, I really want to be that positive influence to people. Instead, because of the unnecessary worries, I felt that I've been burdening people when I complain the symptoms and constantly seeking for comfort and reassurance. The habit of googling symptoms is something that I really want to refrain from.
But other than this, is there something that I can do for myself to get rid of this health anxiety?
I've been going to therapy now since November I think. Have been feeling better but then something went and triggered all the fear again, in my case cause the doctor wants me to do the yearly mammogram (called me to remind me that I haven't done it yet).
I've for the most part forced myself to stop Googling. My therapist also tells me to distract, and try to retrain the brain by basically not allowing the negative thoughts to overwhelm me. It's hard though, I obviously still have a very hard time with it. I too wish I could be the person who doesn't worry about it and just lets it go and is positive.
It is very hard with media constantly talking about cancer, heart disease, etc. All the stuff that they make seem will kill you right now. This and that screening, etc.
I suggest seeing a therapist too. They can help. It does take a long time though which is frustrating but it does help.
I wish you all the best, I hope you feel better soon.