Posted by Miss Honeychurch on October 12, 2004, at 8:47:24
In reply to Re: I KNOW!!!, posted by Eric C on October 11, 2004, at 19:37:53
Eric,
I had these symptoms for 6 months. It was 6 months of tests and MRIs and exhausting all physical possibilities until I decided I needed mental help. There was no other explanation!
I started at the top with a psychiatrist, thinking someone with an MD would be sympathetic to my preoccupation with health. He wanted to put me on medication right away. I said no, mainly due to fear of side effects and cost as well as I wanted to know WHY I was having these symptoms.
So I found a psychotherapist (CBT oriented) and within several weeks, my symptoms went away. Now granted, I have now been in therapy for over a year and it has been a huge investment of time and money, but it has been worth it to me to do it without medication. I now have skills which will last a life time. I have read many studies which state that there is an 80% chance of relapse back into depression and anxiety once all medication is stopped, and a 25% chance of relapse back into depression and anxiety once CBT therapy is ended.
When I went to see the psychotherapist, I would have told you that I had nothing to be anxious about, nothing to be depressed about. However, when you start examining your irrational thoughts as well as upbringing, etc., suddenly things become clear.
Are you seeing a therapist for this? Or just your family doctor?
poster:Miss Honeychurch
thread:400527
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/health/20041005/msgs/402087.html