Newbie

[Gigi8]

Hi I’m new to this and struggle with anxiety related to self diagnosing myself, just like today I have back of the knee pain and instantly went to the conclusion that it’s a blood clot and that I’ll probably end up dying tonight. This is a reoccurring situation, whenever I have a symptom to anything I think of the worse, I obsess over it and constantly need reassuring. I work myself up to the point of feeling worse. It’s getting too much, I’m ruining friendships, relationships and even though depression and anxiety runs in my family I feel like they don’t understand. Yet I haven’t been to see anyone about this nor am I on any medication but maybe it’s getting to the point where I need to be on something. I feel alone, like one step away from being a crazy woman! I want to connect with others alike and not feel so alone in this

[geoff]

Hello Gigi, and a warm welcome to the forums.

To answer you briefly, yes it's time you went to see your doctor.

You need to be diagnosed so any appropriate medication if required will be prescribed for you.

From what you have told us seems as though you could have a particular illness, but due to the rules I can't tell you as we aren't allowed to tell you, but I would be very interested to know once your doctor tells you, they may even refer you onto a psychologist on a mental health plan, which entitles you to 10 Medicare paid sessions per year.

Hope to hear back from you.

Geoff.

[IreneM]

HI Gigi

First of all I must agree with Geoff in seeing your Doctor, but if you want a tip (sounds like you may have a chronic condition). I encourage you to make sure that the doctor that you see specialises in: "Chronic Desease Management". Larger Medical Centres usually have them just ask at Reception.

From there you can not only get a Mental Health Plan but also a plan on how to manage your pain. I know how horrible it can be to have joint issues among other things as I am now on my second form of life support.

The benefits of having the right doctor and mental therapist go without saying. Check out the "GET SUPPORT" links either above or below as well as the support line if you feel lost.

Like Geoff said it is time to admit that you can't do it all by yourself. My medical team are like a true family, sure it will be the same for you once you have the right help.

Irene.