Anxious and upset abt Illness/general health and blood phobia

Mental health
1

Hi everyone,

I’m a newbie here so am not sure which category to post my question on because I’ve been feeling really anxious abt getting bad illness and also have a phobia of blood. 

Everytime I’ve been feeling unwell or need to go to a doctor, I felt like I couldn’t breath in the waiting room. I would start crying because I am so scare that they’re going to tell me some bad news or they’re going to do some painful internal exams or something. I also can’t deal with seeing too much blood unless it’s my menstrual cycle. 

I don’t want to live in fear. And my partner has been worried about me and think I’m being ridiculous, basically told me to snap out of it. Those words made me more upset and anxious, I feel stupid. I know he doesn’t mean it that way, he said he’s worried abt me being anxious and wants to fix this but he said comforting me doesn’t seem to fix it.

I know I need to hardern up and grow up as I know there are people who are in worse situations than me. But whenever I have some illness or health issue, I just can’t help but overthink the extreme and feel like I couldn’t breath or want to vomit due to stress. I’ve tried to tell myself that everything is fine and tried to find things that I like doing to distract myself, but nothing seems to work at that intense moment. I felt like I’m drowning in this pool of emotions and no matter what I do, there’s a greater force pulling me down.

I’ve talked to a doctor and been prescribed Zoloft but have not taken it as I don’t know whether it will do more long term damage than help. 

Sorry about the long story, but would like to know if anyone has any ways to make themselves feel more at ease during panick attack or situations/environment that may cause them anxiety. Appreciate any ideas!

2

Have you tried a hypnotherapist they are really good really understanding and help with your subconscious 

3

I bought a finger pulse oximeter. It tells you your heart rate and oxygen I put it on when I feel like I'm dying from a panic attack because I will see that I'm not. Its also good to use it and sit calm till I lower my heart rate. It was the best purchase I have ever made. I haven't had a full blown panic attack in almost a year!

Good luck I understand my anxiety is the worst at the doctors its okay to be worried and scared. Just know you are safe. I still think every time I get sick it the end, but I get better. You're not alone, and your feelings are valid!

4

Thanks for your reply! Yes I’ve been going to a hypnotherapist on and off for 9 years.. helpful whilst I am there but I don’t think I can retain the technique to help calm myself down when I’m in a panicking state..

5

Thank you so much for the reply and encouragement! I’ve never thought abt getting an oximeter, I’ll do a search on purchasing one today! 

Thanks for letting me know that my fear is valid... am glad you haven’t had a full blown panic attack for a year! Best of luck too and am relief to know I’m not alone.