I'm looking for advice on how people cope with anxiety/panic when they get physically sick??
I've had pretty severe anxiety & panic attacks for 11 years now (I'm only 25). Been through the works with psychologists, CBT, meds etc. I got completely on top of my anxiety for a year when I was 21, but then I had a health issue that really triggered it off again.
The health issue has basically resolved, but now whenever I'm unwell I get extremely panicky & need someone with me. I've always had some health anxiety, but now it's so bad that I'm scared to go anywhere alone incase I get sick, including driving. I'm scared to go out alone, exercise, I'm unemployed, friends have left me because I always bail & can't drive to see them, boyfriend of 4 years broke up with me because the stress was making him miserable & he was becoming more like a carer. I live back with my parents & they are sick of my neediness & although try to help are fed up with me & let me know what a disappointment I am which makes me feel more depressed.
I'm working on managing my anxiety when I'm feeling okay with CBT. But I get sick pretty much every week or 2 with bugs/viruses & the doctor has no answers as to why other than chronic stress suppressing my immune system.
Any advice on how to cope when sick, being alone or just generally with health anxiety & getting confidence back would be so appreciated!
