Hi - first time poster. I am in my mid-20s and relatively healthy, but lately some of my greatest anxiety stems from unfounded health concerns. I have struggled with anxiety in the past but never over my health, so I am looking for some advice on how to deal with these specific unwanted thoughts. I have been under a lot of pressure lately and find myself falling back into old patterns of thinking/been experiencing general anxiety more frequently along with constantly worrying about my own health, the health of family and loved ones - even my pets. When I am having an anxiety attack I often get physical symptoms such as pulsing in my hands and feet, tingling in my head, etc. which only exacerbate my medical worries. Logically I know these are part of my anxiety disorder but I just can't seem to keep the thoughts away. Today was really hard for me and I had some very negative thoughts bubble up from the back of my mind. I have not self-harmed in over 10 years but found myself thinking about it today. I do not plan to act on it, so please don't be concerned about that.. I am just looking for someone who understands what I am going through as my spouse does not have anxiety and when I am having an episode they say they don't know how to help me. I also don't know what to tell them when they ask how they can help me because in the past I really only struggled with my anxiety alone, so if anyone has any advice I could tell them that would be good too. What are some things you tell yourself when you're having unwanted thoughts about your health? I have taken medication for my anxiety before and weaned myself off of it about 4 years ago. I would rather not go back on anything as I had unpleasant side effects and didn't notice a remarkable difference in my anxiety levels. Thanks for any advice
I definitely understand anxiety. I used to have panic attacks almost every day for a few months. They were terrifying.
Something you might find helpful is meditation. Usually when I meditate, I notice that all my negative thoughts come up while I'm meditating and my head clears up after. However, it takes a while of meditation to get the hang of it and to see results. But I'd say it is a very profound experience. If you are up for it, then stick to it for maybe a month and see how it helps.
Also, there is this supplement called L-Theanine. I take a stronger form of the supplement called Suntheanine and it is supposed to calm your mind and it helps achieve a meditation-like state of mind.
I hope this helps Allison!
God Bless You on your journey!
I tend to have anxiety about my health even though I believe I'm blessed enough to be healthy. My anxiety was rough enough to where I was getting chest flutters and shortness of breath with dizzy spells. I went and had several tests done and all have came back fine but I still worry because I still have symptoms. One thing that helps get my mind off of it is to keep yourself busy. (Easier said then done an I right?) don't give your mind a chance to think by staying busy. My favorite method is listening to music and I'll sing every word to the song. Find your method and stick to it.