Hi everyone, my name is Zoel, I'm 26.
I have been dealing with anxiety for 3 years now.
This is my first time reaching out online. I'm currently not under any care but I will be soon (obtaining insurance).
I suffer with hypochondria.
At first I had no idea what it was. My attacks started out of nowhere 3 years ago.
I used to smoke a lot (ciggs, pot) and I started getting a burning sensation in my chest while smoking, when it became more persistent my anxiety started to get worse too.
Eventually I would have attacks anywhere, anytime, no matter what I was doing. I thought I was having a heart attack each time.
I stop smoking, drinking, started eating unhealthy, everything.
I went to the ER in a panic many times, saw a doctor, cardiologist ect. My heart was healthy, but my stress levels were high and I was suffering from heartburn/digestive issues. (which still have not been maintained successfully)
But no matter what the doctor told me, I still believed there was something was wrong (cardiac anxiety) I was terrified I had heart issues, or that I was stressing so much I would cause them.
It was a war in my head (and still is honestly)
I would google and WeMD EVERYTHING. I was obsessed and it just made it worse.
I would feel like I was having all the symptoms of a heart attack. Pounding heart, racing pulse, knot in throat, chest pressure, arm pain, dizziness, shortness of breath. It was awful. The most awful I have never felt in my life.
You feel so weak and helpless.
Although no where near as bad, I still deal with my anxiety on a everyday basis. It's always on my mind.
I plan on seeking help to deal with my hypochondria. I'm not medication. But to be honestly I do plan to be now.
I'm living a happier lifestyle, thanks to eating better, exercise, "mental" exercise and cutting WAY back on drinking.
I look forward to being apart of this community and helping others if I can.
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