Lately, I've been constantly fixating on health issues. I start to magnify even the slightest symptoms and consider calling the doctor, but I find myself torn between going or not. My family says, "You're worrying too much," my friends suggest therapy, but honestly, therapy feels like a huge step for me. Do you think I should really start therapy, or will this pass somehow?
I used to be in a very similar situation too. I would blow every itch out of proportion, thinking, 'Have I developed an allergy?' and end up going to dermatology. While trying to get a test done, I found myself at a different doctor every day for three weeks. The doctor actually said, 'It could be psychological.' I had no choice but to start therapy, and I made a lot of progress in two months. The things you see as small pile up, and therapy really helps.
I suggest you see a psychiatrist directly; first, they will assess you. If you need therapy, they will refer you, but if it's just something you've blown out of proportion in your mind, it might be resolved even without medication. If you're feeling this indecisive, it's essential to take a step; it’s clear that you’re exhausting yourself trying to handle it alone.
It seems that we are talking about a case of health anxiety or what is commonly referred to as hypochondria. Therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, can be very effective in changing the way one perceives and interprets physical symptoms. However, a clinical evaluation is definitely necessary, as there may be another underlying condition. I recommend consulting a specialist first for a detailed assessment.
I mean, to be honest, I think you're overreacting a bit. Paying so much attention to every little symptom and stressing yourself out isn't the solution either. I think therapy has become a trend now. In the past, people used to solve these things by talking it out or through prayers. Find yourself a hobby, distract yourself, and this will pass.
Let me also say that, actually, knowing that nothing comes up when I go to the doctors comforts me, but the process tires me a lot. You know, I want to say like they say, 'I got upset over nothing,' but that feeling of emptiness doesn't go away. I guess I really need to take a step. I'm still curious about how therapy starts and whether it's difficult or not.
If my mom were my dad, she would send you to someone else instead of a doctor. Not everyone has a psychologist, girl; there's no need to be this obsessed. If you really want a solution, find an experienced elder and talk to them. We don't even know what to do anymore from going around to different psychologists.
That constant feeling of looking for a symptom is really exhausting. Even when you wake up in the morning, you think, 'What if something comes up again?' The first few sessions of therapy can be a bit tough because you try to look back and understand why you feel this way. But once you get past the initial stage, life starts to become clearer. So this is a process; it might actually do you good to try it.
