From the start of this year, nothing feels right.
I have been experiencing sudden waves of anxiety, and they arrive without any particular reason. I sometimes wish I had someone to share this with, but wouldn’t that be too much?
This month, I didn’t get my periods either (I can’t be pregnant), so I’m starting to overthink that maybe I have PCOD. I will probably visit the doctor in February for a checkup.
I also think I might have sleep apnea, as I sometimes don’t get enough oxygen while sleeping, causing me to jerk awake suddenly.
I’m feeling very insecure about my looks and weight.
My family issues aren’t helping these days either.
I’m totally worried about how the rest of the year will go
You gotta learn to outsmart that anxious voice in your head. It's not easy, but it's doable. I found that keeping a health diary helped me see patterns and realize that most of my "symptoms" were just normal body stuff. Also, try setting a limit on how often you can check your symptoms or go to the doctor. It's like training a puppy, you gotta be firm with yourself. And hey, distraction is key. Find something you're passionate about and dive in headfirst. For me, it was learning to play the guitar. Sucked at first, but it kept my mind busy
@nelson williams yep, no googling symptoms should be the first step op should consider. no matter how bothered you are by something in your body, don't google it. it'll be a great start to stopping all of this
Hypochondria is no joke. Your mind becomes your worst enemy, always jumping to the worst conclusions
But our bodies are incredibly resilient, and most of the time, they're working just fine. Try keeping a gratitude journal. It sounds cheesy, but focusing on the things your body does right can help balance out those anxious thoughts. Be patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if you need it. You've got this! What's one positive thing your body did for you today?
@heartttt yep, this. our bodies are smart and strong, we're not gonna fall apart just because of some headache. i know it's easier said than done, but try not to analyze every sensation. we humans and we always feel something, that's okay, that doesn't mean that you're sick, thank means that you're body is just functioning
I've been down this rabbit hole, it's not a fun place to be. First things first, ditch Dr. Google. Seriously, block those health websites if you have to. Next, find yourself a therapist who knows their stuff about health anxiety. They'll give you the tools to fight back against those intrusive thoughts. And hey, while you're at it, why not channel all that energy into something positive? Start volunteering, hit the gym. Trust me, a good sweat session can do wonders for your mental health. Remember, your mind is playing tricks on you. Don't let it win. Now, tell me, what's one thing you're going to do today to start taking back control?
@kellyt.1 I've gotta say, I've been in this anxious health spiral for as long as I can remember. My brain's default setting is "panic mode" whenever I feel the slightest twinge. You know how it goes - one minute you're fine, the next you're convinced that hangnail is a sign of impending doom. It's exhausting. I've lost count of the number of times I've paced around my apartment, convinced I was having a heart attack. And don't even get me started on the late-night google marathons. I swear, according to that site, I've had every rare disease known to mankind
@kellyt.1 I could write a best-selling novel series based on all the imaginary diseases I've diagnosed myself with. I'll be casually scrolling through social media, and BAM! Suddenly I'm 17 pages deep into an obscure medical journal. It's ridiculous, I know, but my brain is addicted to the adrenaline rush of potential doom. How do you handle social situations? I find myself constantly worried that people think I'm a hypochondriac (which, let's face it, I am), so I try to hide it
@Joy Vaughn Seriously, it's wild how our brains can conjure up these elaborate health conspiracies, isn't it? I remember this one time, I was absolutely certain I had a brain tumor because I had a headache for two days straight. Turns out, I just needed new glasses. Talk about embarrassing! But you know what? I've started to find the humor in it all. Like, I'm basically a self-taught medical expert at this point. Maybe I should start my own WebMD rival site - "Hypochondriac's Corner" or something. At least then I could put all this "knowledge" to use. But for real, how often do you find yourself googling symptoms? I'm trying to cut back, but it's like a bad habit I can't kick
@Joy Vaughn The social situation struggle is real! I've opened to my dad, that's it. The constant battle between logic and anxiety is also frustrating. Like, intellectually, I KNOW that the chances of me having some rare, undiagnosed condition are slim to none. But try telling that to my 3 AM brain when I'm convinced that the freckle on my arm is something to worry about
Oh, I know exactly how you feel. I promise it gets better ❤️
Have you tried talking to a therapist who specializes in health anxiety? They can be absolute lifesavers
I found that keeping myself busy with creative projects really helped take my mind off health worries. Maybe try painting or writing? And don't forget to treat yourself with kindness. You're doing the best you can with a really tough situation. Sending you a big virtual hug! What's one thing you love about yourself that has nothing to do with your health?