Health Anxiety

[strawberryswing]

Does anyone else suffer from this?

I stupidly googled some symptoms last week and have been terrified since. I had a small chest pain which over the weekend has turned into back, chest,shoulder and arm pain.

Google obviously came up with heart problems and various cancers.

I've been seen by 2 people today. I've an ecg done which was normal, along with normal pulse and blood pressure. Both have said its not serious, just muscular.

Why am I still scared? My shoulder, arm, back and chest still hurt. And I dont know why Why am I still worrying myself silly despite being told its not serious. I hate this, its completely taken over my life.

[Jaydeelee]

Hi Strawberry

You should be able to self-refer through your local IAPT service - google that to find your nearest one. They will be able to set you up with an assessment and will then decide which course of action to take. I was put on a 6 week stress and low mood course (which was great - took us through the different stages of anxiety and the physical effects, and the vicious cycle that exists through the thoughts and physical symptoms). I'm also having high-intensity CBT, which seems to be helping a bit (although I'm still struggling on some days). Mindfulness could well help - my IAPT people gave me various CDs and literature about it and other coping techniques. I have avoided any medication so far.

Your doctor sounds like an A* prat. My docs have been fantastic, it was they who gave me the details for the IAPT service. They reassured me that I had anxiety, having done various blood tests and examinations, and said it's really common - up to 1 in 3 people will suffer from it within a 20 year period. Not once did they dismiss my fears as being petty and inconsequential, and they said it's the most common condition that people come in to see them about. Sorry your dr is so unsympathetic.

Good luck. x