New member saying hi

[jessjess]

Hi! My name is Jessica. I'm 25 years old and have been dealing with anxiety most of my life but was diagnosed when I was 14. I've overcome so much already: agoraphobia, social anxiety, panic attacks, low self esteem. Despite my huge successes, I am struggling with health anxiety at the moment and am trying desperately to overcome some of my worst fears related to my health. At the moment I'm having sharp pains in my lower abdomen. I won't get into it much here.

I've already conquered so much and am optimistic that I can continue my journey to complete recovery. Hoping to make some friends and also encourage others are in the situation I found myself in five years ago.

[salvator here]

Hi Jessica!

I'm glad you've been able to overcome so much - agoraphobia is a hard one for a lot of us to deal with (I'm not managing as well I'd like myself - I'm very reclusive). Good to hear you've improved your self esteem too.

I think we all have setbacks, and try to not be too hard on yourself, just pick yourself and carry on going forward with your journey.

Any medical professionals doing tests on what is going on with your health? I know wrote you didn't want to say much, so no problem if you don't feel comfortable, but you should rule out anything serious so you don't wind up thinking everything is 'in your head'.

I'm looking forward to reading more from you, and always good to know you want to offer support and encouragement to others as well, as well as share your strategies on getting better.

[jessjess]

Hi Salvator!

Agoraphobia was one that I really struggled with but am happy to say that I've reached the other side. I have now been told by some people that I am so confident it is intimidating. I think the key is to fake it til you make it lol. You won't be reclusive forever! There's nothing wrong with being shy or wanting some time alone but when you fear leaving the house is when it becomes a problem.

I'm trying so hard to keep going. I've picked up this new book called "The Happiness Trap" which is really helping me with those nagging thoughts that I'm sick and dying. I'm going to commit to getting better at this one, it is so exhausting constantly worrying about your health.

I've had tests done but they've all come back as fine. The hard thing for me is knowing what is real and what is in my head. I can't justify going to the doctor for every little thing that's wrong with me even if I do think it might be cancer or some other life threatening disease. But then I wonder, maybe this time it is life threatening. It is so confusing!

Thanks! I've still got so much to learn which is why I'm here. Hopefully there are others out there who have been through health anxiety and have conquered it and are willing to share their success with me!