finding it hard to think rationally when seeing my fears on tv or social media

[Ace6913]

Hi everyone

just wondering if any of you find it hard to think rationally after being exposed to your fears either on tv or social media? My biggest fear is having or getting cancer. I feel like everywhere I turn I see it either on news an add or something shared on social media I feel like I never get a break from seeing it . I know it's my anxiety telling me these are all signs that I need to take note of and go get checked again and again because I feel like it's all i ever see someone out there is trying to tell me something crazy right ? Oh anxiety how I hate you 😫 I'm determined to not let this control me as I can't control what I see anywhere really just wondering if anyone out there has these irrational thoughts as well.

[Zeal]

Hi Ace,

While I generally don't get triggered by the media these days, I do understand where you're coming from. I have OCD/anxiety, and when I had an eating disorder in 2012, shows like 'Supersize vs superskinny' were problematic. Even now I wouldn't choose to watch this TV show. On news current affair programs, there are often dramatic and deeply affecting stories, which is probably why I tend not to watch these. Social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram can be unhelpful too.

If you don't mind me asking, do you currently see a health professional (such as a doctor or psychologist) about the anxiety? If not, I recommend going to a doctor (GP) for a chat about your mental health. They may devise a mental healthcare plan for you, and refer you to another professional. In addition, trusted online resources can be useful. I recommend the resource booklets on this site: http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/consumers.cfm The most relevant links for you would be Helping Health Anxiety and What? Me Worry!?! **NEW AND IMPROVED**

Here are two previous forum threads that you may like to check out:

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/social-media#qc64xnHzvGGEbv8AAOnT_A

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/anxiety/news-anxiety#qlQEj3HzvGGEbv8AAOnT_A

Thanks for your post! It would be great to hear back from you 🙂

Best wishes,

Zeal

[Ace6913]

Hi zeal

thanks for your reply I will have a look at those links thankyou so much 😄 I'm currently seeing a pychiatrist and I've been on my medication for 2 weeks now which I find is working for me I'm a lot calmer and can see things alittle more clearly it's just the little moments during the day that I find triggers such as tv or social media I was just curious to see if anyone else had these irrational thoughts as well 😄 once again thankyou for your feedback it will be very helpful .