I have always been a sever worrier but this is the first time I have experienced this level of anxiety. I think it started about a year ago, my Dad had a heart attack whilst on holiday abroad and I got a phone call at work to say he was intensive care, I obviously couldn't get out there straight away and it was a hellish few days. He is fine now thank god but my anxiety has continued to grow, not really about my Dad but all sorts of things.

For example we went on holiday to France and the whole time I had a dreaded feeling I wouldn't make it home. The day before and day of sailing back to the UK, inwardly I was a nervous wreck, I was literally counting the minutes to get back to the UK when I thought my anxiety would subside, which of course it didn't. I have travelled all over the world and have never experienced anything like this.

Then in November I was referred to a breast clinic for abnormal symptoms. I got the all clear but the symptoms haven't really gone away, I now wonder if they are being caused by anxiety (pain and itching on and off). This is obviously increasing my anxiety, I constantly check myself, Google symptoms, can't sleep and it's always on my mind.

I am really struggling with this because before when I have been worrying I have been able to rationally talk myself to a reasonable state but this time I just don't seem to be able to. Outwardly I am functioning as normal, I go to work, manage the house, go out with friends etc. It seems to be worse in the evening when I come home, I guess because I have less to distract myself. I really don't want this getting any worse, I've downloaded a couple of self help books and in the cold light of day it makes sense and then my mind wanders and I am back to high levels of anxiety, worst case scenario playing out in my mind.

I've not been to my GP as they really are useless, you can't even get an appointment without explaining to the receptionist what's wrong with you and then a nurse assesses if an appointment is needed or not over the phone. I do think this is getting out of control though and would appreciate any advise.