Taking A Proactive Approach
I have decided to start going to therapy for my constant hypochondria. While it is easy for me to poke fun at myself here and in real life about my anxiety over imagined medical misfortunes, the reality of the situation is far from humorous.
Case in point: While eating lunch last Friday, I felt something lodged in the back of my throat. I assumed it was a bit of food that had failed to go down properly, so I tried to wash it down with a few swigs of tea. No luck. When Honey and I got to the car, I stuck my finger into my throat and felt a lump on the right side. My mind started racing as I tried to figure out what was wrong. I imagined that I was having an allergic reaction to something that I ate and that I might wind up in the emergency room because of an obstructed airway. I wondered if it might be something more serious like cancer, and started pondering all the disfiguring treatments and surgeries I might need to endure.
All of this worrying made me very anxious, and when I get anxious, I shut down. I stopped responding to Honey’s questions, which he understandably didn’t appreciate. It didn’t seem to matter that I realized my thoughts were illogical; I was unable to quell my anxiety. Once we got home and my panic subsided a little, I decided that enough was enough. While I may not be physically ill as often as I imagine, I am sick and tired of worrying about my health.
So, I’m hoping to learn some coping mechanisms. I know I could probably take medication to control my anxiety, but that would just be treating a symptom instead of the problem. Maybe an experienced counselor can get to the bottom of why I overreact to every ache and pain. We’ll see.
I’m glad you are going! Please let me know any tips on controlling anxiety! Love you!
Great job deciding to go. I need your tips too.
@ Liz & Alyson: Thanks!! I will share what I learn so that we can all be as anxiety-free as possible! ;)
Good for you. Taking control of your life. Priceless.
@ Darla: Thank you!
I think that’s a great idea. I actually think that all people could benefit from therapy. We all should continue to grow and a good therapist would help you to do that. I hope you uncover the reasons behind it all and wish you good mental health. I ? my therapist ?