Health Anxiety
I'm here because I feel so out of control lately. Health issues have always been my biggest anxiety trigger. I don't like not knowing what's going on with my body, or how to fix it.
That having been said, two months ago, I was diagnosed with MS, and ever since then, I have not been able to get my anxiety under control. Every little back or neck pain, eye strain, headache, etc., that I feel, sends me into another panic, thinking it'll turn into something worse.
On top of that, for the last few years, I was doing really well at being healthier. I started eating healthier, using natural soaps, shampoos, etc., and I even managed to get off of all medications. I was so proud of myself, and then this happens, and it all feels like a waste. I feel like I'm betraying my body by taking these MS medications. It just feels...soul crushing.
I started seeing a counselor about three weeks ago. I like her a lot, but I feel like so far I haven't made any progress. I can't make it through even five minutes without crying, even if I don't feel emotional at the time. It's like it's a defense mechanism that I can't seem to turn off. Very annoying.
Anyway...I'm hoping this community will be of some help, even if it just gives me an outlet to get my thoughts out during times when I'm particularly stressed. Like now...
@GraveyardGal1975
Hi! - It sounds like there's a lot going on for you! I hope that writing all of this out helped! 7 Cups can definately be a great outlet!
So there's a lot that comes to mind, but practically here's a few takeaways -
- Write things down. Track when you feel back/neck pain, eye strain, headaches. This helps because in one way it's an outlet to express what's going on, and then on top of that you'll find patterns. Often people with health anxiety will find their symptom is worse when their anxiety is worse. So being able to connect the two takes time but is so helpful!
On the other hand, if your symptoms are related to your MS - then this will be helpful for your GP anyway. So it is a win-win.
- Learn about MS. Talk to your GP about your concerns; what can you expect within the next 12 months/2 years? MS can be disabling but it doesn't have to limit you in whatever you'd like to do with your life.
- See if you can pick what it is about these medications that makes you 'betraying your body'. I use coconut oil and cruelty-free organic products but I take a bucketful of medication - does that mean I'm betraying my body too? I think that there is a kind of balance in there where it doesn't have to feel like a betrayal or guilt-trip. Be kind to yourself.
Hope this helps somewhat! and do talk to your counsellor about this - maybe you can print off what you've written here so she has a better understanding of what you're going through and what you need.
Anyway...I'm hoping this community will be of some help, even if it just gives me an outlet to get my thoughts out during times when I'm particularly stressed. Like now...
@GraveyardGal1975
P.S. Sorry part of your post was on the bottom of my last message! I copied it so I could re-read it while I was replying and obviously didn't delete that part! :P
@GraveyardGal1975
Now I feel the same feelings. All the time, weakness, dizzy. Perhaps this is because of working at a computer? In my free time, I work on freelancing. Studying at the university also became worse. There are no forces to perform any tasks and I order the essay, for example, on the service https://buytopessay.com/. If this goes on, I do not know what will happen to my life. Is it possible that I myself invent everything myself?
