Hello B-14,
Health anxiety can be so awful... it really is so exhausting and laborious going through the process of compulsively checking our symptoms and falling into endless cycles of worry, isn't it?
Well, rest assured, you are not alone!
Many people experience this type of anxiety, and it can absolutely shift with the right support.
If you haven’t explored a Mental Health Care Plan through your GP yet, we recommend starting here so you are able to speak with an ongoing psychologist.
In addition to this, you might find the courses through This Way Up helpful in allowing you to understand your symptoms and explore ways to manage your anxiety using CBT:
Online Treatment Program for Health Anxiety | THIS WAY UP
Ultimately, when our body and mind are this activated, what they are really seeking is one thing: safety.
So, we encourage you to think about some people, places, or things that help your nervous system to feel soothed. This could be a hug from a loved one, a warm shower, your favourite food, a familiar scent, a comfort tv show, or some grounding music/meditations.
It can also be helpful to use the anxious energy your body is producing by exploring movement - this could be through yoga, dance, walking, or shaking. Yes, shaking! (Animals do this in the wild to discharge their stress response when it's no longer needed, which can be super helpful for us to do too.)
Give a couple of these strategies a try and let us know how you go. We are always here if you need to talk things out further.
Warm regards,
Sophie M.
