I need some encouragement!

Psalm_23

At my annual Gyn. exam 2 weeks ago (the only doctor I see annually besides the eye dr), she gave me a rec for a phsycologist to help with my (medical) anxiety (she could tell I was really nervous: I was far more terrified than I let on). 

I still haven't called.  I'm so scared.  I don't know what exactly I'm scared of, but I am.  I hate that I'm too afraid to go to the doctors, and I know this can help, but it doesn't make this call any easier.

Any advice or encouragement?

jacqueblittle

First I want to tell you I am sorry you are going through this....  (((hugs))). Second, I dont have any idea what it is like to have this (I am in nursing school so I am always around med stuff) but I would guess a fear/phobia is a fear regardless and I would think if you could narrow it down to what it might be that scares you it would help.  Like do you think it is the needles, or the blood, or the doctors, or dare I say the nurses?  If you could identify that, maybe it would help prior to seeing the psych, but if you think it is a doctor that you are afraid of, well then that is going to be a hard one to make that call.  But if that is the case then I would advise to have someone go with you to the appt to get you in the door, sit with you while you wait, and help you cope. Don't make yourself feel bad that you have this fear, I would think it is not abnormal to have a fear of hospitals/medical places.  But do let someone help you with it so it can get better.  Hang in there girle.  J 

WineCat

I really feel for you.  I have a ton of anxiety around any medical appointment, procedure, etc.. 

Maybe think of it as an investment in your future health?  You're so great at taking care of yourself now and this will help you in the future.  It's totally in line with your healthy lifestyle. 

Any help?? 

XMrsV2005

All I can tell you is that you are NOT ALONE. Lots of people suffer from anxiety disorders, including myself. 

Some holistic things that could help you (just until you actually make an appt) are rescue remedy, massage therapy, and st. johns wort. Oh wait, I think St. Johns wort is more for depression.

At any rate, try to remember that you have control over your life, and your possible illness. The illness doesn't have control over you.

GL! 

Psalm_23

Thank you ladies!  I called and had to leave a message, but at least I made the first step.  Hopefully something postitive can come of this.

*breathe in* *breathe out*

ETA: She called back.  Meeting on Thursday.  Hopefully this is the right track. 

LittleMissGreenEyes

- I have this too, part of my BP issues from the post below come from my anxiety. I took a Hypnobirthing class for childbirth and have been able to translate what I learned about relaxation and fear into lots of other life experiences. It may be worth a try to look into some holistic alternatives.

shanbrite2

Good for you for making that first step! I swear, that's the hardest part. I've developed a lot of anxiety around health/medical stuff too, probably understandably. I've been seeing someone for anxiety in general, and she's given me some great tips and strategies for dealing with it. I'm super proud of you for calling, it's so hard.

**Texas Gal**

Awesome! You did the right thing!! I completely understand what you're going through.

MCromwell

Good for you!!

If it makes you feel any better, I'm in PA school and I'm totally cool/calm/collected/in control when I'm the medical PROVIDER.... but when I'm the patient I get severe anxiety (especially since I've been in school!).. I get this weird flushing rash all over my chest- often when they try to listen to my heart/lungs and they lift up my shirt they literally almost jump back and say, "Are you aware of this?!" It's so embarrassing. Now I'm anxious about becoming anxious and it makes everything worse. So hugs, and I'd love to hear what they recommend.