Health Anxiety Peri menopause

[Turkeypie]

I've been hid with awful health anxiety at 48. I've wasted 2 days googling symptoms and ignoring life whilst I convince myself of the worst.

Stomach niggles this week - I had a CT scan 2 years ago of pelvis/abdomen which came back clear. I've had blood tests in Jan - all good. Yet I'm convinced I have developed something deadly this week when in reality may be reflux or an ulcer (caused by stress no doubt). But then convinced myself that something has developed since the scan within 2 years.....I over think constantly.

Has anyone tried CBT to help with the anxiety? I'm aware I need to address it instead of googling every tiny twitch/ache I get.

Hi @Turkeypie sorry you're suffering. I haven't had counselling for health anxiety but I do get it. Like you, I've had tests previously where I've had 'worrying' symptoms and I have to remind myself of that to prevent further worry.

It is very difficult. Try to stay away from Dr Google if you can. I try to rationalise - if it wasn't something serious before, then it is unlikely to be now.

Thank you, yes seems so many struggle with it too. I’m checking the notes from my ct scan from 2 years ago to check there’s nothing there that could have materialised. I know I shouldn’t but can’t help it, need to break the cycle.

I didn’t give my health a 2nd thought in my 20/30s

As you get older you naturally become aware of all the things that can possibly go wrong – most times you accept it and take the logical steps to deal with it (regular check ups, etc). However sometimes a little part of your subconscious, emotional mind can get it's metaphorical knickers in a twist and take on the role of constantly checking; not to hurt you but in the (mistaken) belief that it's protecting you. A couple of sessions of hypnotherapy or remedial hypnosis could help.