Obsessed with heart !

Mental health
1

I have never been on anything like this before due to embarrassment but I feel so alone right now, for weeks I have been constantly checking my pulse and having panic attacks because I feel its too high, but today I checked it and it feels really weak and slow, which has sent me into real panic mode. This obsession is taking over my life, I don't leave the house in case I have a panic attack , I have a 5 year old daughter who is everything to me but I feel she deserves more than being stuck with me , I really don't know what to do anymore, has anyone else had similar obsession?

2

Have you been to the Dr.? I went through something similar and didn't feel better until I actually went to the Dr. and was checked out and told I have a healthy heart. It could help give you piece of mind.

3

Thanks for the reply, I'm at the doctors tomorrow but they always seem to just roll there eyes at me now about things, thing is I know its all in my head but I can't control it, I'm on sertraline have been for 5 years and they are on about changing my meds but I'm scared to do that , are you on any medication and ever changed ?

4

Hi Kate!

I have the same problem. Constantly checking my pulse. Worrying when it feels to high or too low. For a while I wouldn't even leave the house by myself or take a shower without panic attacks. It's only been in recent weeks that I have. Have you considered seeing a counselor? CBT can help a bit if you're willing.

Something that's been helping me lately, and I don't know if it'll help for you, is keeping a panic diary. I hope you feel better soon.

5

Thanks for the reply, I'm currently getting CBT but some days of the appointments i just can't face leaving the house so it seems pointless, a panic diary sounds like a good idea I'll give that a try , I'm at the doctor's today and i think they are going to change meds so hopefully that helps

6

I hope that changing the meds helps you, and that you feel better soon. With the panic diary, I follow this format:

1. Triggering Event

2. Thoughts as a result

3. Feelings (physical and mental)

4. Is it realistic?

Number four is very important because it gets you to think logically, even for a second. I hope it helps, and you always have someone online here if it doesn't! Good luck! Leaving the house is really hard right now, but I believe it'll get better with time.