Living with Health Anxiety | Dollybowbow
Вставка
- Опубліковано 15 жов 2024
- I really hope this video makes sense! Once I started editing it, I realised I had missed out so many things I wanted to say, mainly the fact that i'm not making this video for any kind of sympathy, or to feel sorry for myself, but rather to try and help myself and hopefully others too.
If you feel like this video might help (even if a tiny bit) a friend or family member, then please share it with them :)
Thanks so much for watching and always supporting me :) x
WHERE ELSE TO FIND ME!
SHOP: www.dollybowbow...
BLOG: www.dollybowbow...
TWITTER: / dollybowbow
RIK'S TWITTER: / rikp89
FACEBOOK: / dollybowbow
INSTAGRAM: / katebowbow
For me it's like there are two voices. The "good" one says it's only anxiety,that my fear is irrational and that I'm going to be fine. The "bad" one says that it's real and that my fear is absolutely justified and probably my body telling me something is wrong. Does anyone else feel like this? It's like I rationally know that it's health anxiety but I still don't really believe it.
Rita Lucia too relatable :(
I think that is the most difficult part of health anxiety is that we are always unsure if it is a real illness, believe me it is tough because I have been dealing with it for 8 months straight so far and I have had various visits to the doctor.
The normal part of your brain is like “hey, it’s okay. You know you get anxiety over small things. Just breath and you will be okay.” And the other voice is over there like, “THIS IS NOT A DRILL. HEART ATTACK READY TO COMMENCE.”
This is me 😫
Probably 100% same situation 😢
It's a nightmare having health anxiety. The constant fear of being ill makes you feel ill. I always try and remember 'don't let the fear of dying stop you from living' xxxx
Hi I know its been a long since you coment but how do you fell now
struggling with this so bad, it's ruining my life
Same,it is ruining everything.
Me too, 12 years now of worry.
Bushcraft1974 I'm a type 1 diabetic I found out and I was really anxious about it this was 2 years ago almost 3 years ago I'm constant anxious I'm dying !!
How are you now? I'm in a really bad way. I feel like I'm feeling the symptoms of the illness.
harley s i
I have health anxiety which means I don't mind going out and do stuff with my friends, but I am constantly thinking I have a disease or something, always googling stuff, seeing symptoms were they don't exist. It's just so easy for people who don't know to say 'just stop thinking about it, it's all in your head'. If only they could understand. It's like telling somebody who smokes to stop smoking or an anorexic person that they are fine with their weight. I am trying to control this, stop googling stuff and please people, if you are struggling with anxiety talk to a specialist to help you xx
I'm not alone I'm so scared right now
No you are not, many people have health anxiety, people you wouldn't even think because people won't say it. It took me sometime to realise why I was feeling the way I did, and I still do sometimes.
this happens exactly to me. it's horrible.
Chryso Nikolaou that's my life in a paragraph
@@ryanshecklercute same here n yes not all people admit their anxieties
I have to say at this very moment in time I am at my lowest. I have been suffering with health anxiety for years and it happens everytime I get a pain, feel ill etc I end up working myself up that it's something awful. I seek reassurance from everyone including the medical profession and if they refer me for tests I panic if they don't I question whether they are doing enough. It makes me feel sick, lose my appetite, not go to work and generally feel miserable and bring everyone else down around me. I would love to be able to just shrug things off and not focus on them but once my head gets into something I can't seem to focus on anything else but that. Thank you for making this video it made me tearful to see how much I can relate to this but I am hoping I can get myself back to feeling good again.
hi simone how have you been i feel the same as you!!
+Simone LeBaigue Hope you feel better soon xx
Exactly how I feel, I'm going for a mammogram on Tuesday and I'm beside myself. I'm practically planning my funeral. It's the worst. I can't eat, can't sleep feel sick all day I just want to be a normal person who worries once there is something to worry about. I know all the crap I'm supposed to tell myself and do in this situation but nothing works except knowing in ok once tests are done. I hate it!
+elesha burgess it's horrible. I am going through CBT at the moment and it does help. We are worriers and nothing will change that but it's how we cope with the worrying that makes a difference to our lives and how we live it. I wish you all the best with your test hunni and please let me know how you get on. If you can try CBT then I would definitely recommend it it's helping me for sure. Sending lots of love and hugs xxx
+Yuvia Barajas hi there Yuvia I have sought CBT since posting this and it's definitely helping me out if this is something you suffer from I would definitely recommend it xxx
"worrying about dying has stopped me from living"
This really hit home I have watched so many videos on anxiety and although I have related to them all non have been as extreme as I can be. However, the severity of your health anxiety when you were younger is exactly like mine but I don't just do it with health but with everything. Can I just say thank you so much for being so honest ! It's so calming to realise that someone has been where you are at and although still struggles they are coping :) Thank you Sweetie
Same here. I cant even work anymore. Am struggling a lot.
omg i needed this video. so badly. my health anxiety has been awful, and its definitely terrible - it definitely did stop me from doing the things i want to do, its definitely made me want to stop living. the moment one little physical problem i feel immediately take myself to the doctors since I'm scared, yet when i arrive at the doctors i kind of don't want to know just in case they tell me its cancer. i'm TERRIBLY scared of terminal diseases such as cancer and the moment you said that "getting lumps in your throat" and getting chest or different kinds of pain and finding it hard to breathe are all symptoms of a panic attack i realised.. i've had so many panic attacks and i didn't even know that. well I'm currently getting an endoscopy done on my throat just to make sure nothings wrong with me so. I'm still living with it, it's affected my family as well and I want to live. I really, REALLY want to live.
You're anxiety is Praticly exactly like mine. Right now I'm scared I have some sort of cancer.
Stay strong! My health anxiety has been so horrible. The thoughts of cancer! The feeling of something in your throat, I know exactly how you feel! Hope everything goes well. X
I'm terrified of getting cancer I always think I'm dieng if I feel one symptoms
+Sameion Steele me too 😕
Yeah but now i just smoke weed so idgaf anymore
I just started crying because finally someone understands and has put into words everything that I feel. I'm not alone and that's the most reassuring thing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this. Health anxiety ruins my life on a daily basis and you're right: we worry about dying so we stop living. My gosh thank you so, so much for this.
I'm 14 and I know that I have health anxiety but I can't tell anyone because I know they'll think I'm stupid. I have a constant fear of developing cancer, especially brain tumours and breast cancer and I have spent the last 6 months convinced I have a brain tumour. My health anxiety goes in waves, it will be really bad for a few months and then go away for a few months etc. My mind goes completely black because I have a genuine terrifying belief that I am dying and it's the worst feeling imaginable. I feel so alone and it's impossible for anyone who doesn't have health anxiety to understand how isolated and terrified I sometimes feel on a day to day basis. Thank you for making this video, it helps to know that I'm not alone.
its funny how much i can relate to this. I am the same age as you, and everything you just said sums up what is happening to me. If there is one thing I must tell you it is to NEVER look up your symptoms on the internet as what it comes up with will just increase your anxiety. Also, never self diagnose yourself. I do these a lot, but the only way to tell if you're okay is by a doctors assistance. If you are concerned and want to put your mind at ease, go see a doctor. I havent yet, but im going to. I feel the exact same as you with cancer. Stay strong :)
hermionegranger02 I am the same age as you and I struggle with the exact same things😭
I've been feeling the exact same thing as you.....
hermionegranger02 have you been to the doctors? They are super understanding about health anxiety and can probably recommend your next steps. Also there is ant anxiety and anti depression meds which have helped me to no end. They don't solve it but I feel like it's totally manageable now
I really recommend you see a doctor about your health anxiety. You may think that they'll think its stupid but they won't, their job is to make you feel better and to recommend ways to help with your anxiety. Ask them for local therapists that specialise in anxiety and book an appointment. I also recommend telling your family maybe even just your parents, its better to reach out and tell people that you're suffering then to suffer in silence nothing good ever comes from suffering alone.
I thought I was the only one who always was worried about having or getting terminal illnesses or any illnesses... I am so glad I'm not the only one
Dude me too, seriously these comments have blown my mind
I'm creaking out cos I'm asthmatic and I think I may have croup, and I've had night nurse and the Internet says you shouldn't have over the counter medicines which make you drowsy because it can interfere with your breathing. So I'm terrified to go to sleep now in case I stop breathing😰 I really want resurgence but everyone else in my house is in bed. URRRRGGGHHHH.
Please don't read things on the internet, I just commented the same, but that's the worst for us that suffers from health anxiety. Do not google your symptoms! Hope you're okay xx
I am also stuck with HA 😔
RegNEl2010 whenever I have a panic attack or something I start to Google all my symptoms even though I told myself 100 times that Google isn't your friend.... is there anyway I can stay away from it for good?
I am seriously so glad you didnt delete this one. I am crying. It is honestly so validating to hear that what I've been struggling with for the past few years is not just me. Thank you so much.
Thank you for this video. It was really brave of you! It helped me. I am suffering from HA as well. It is so hard for people to understand that almost each day we are afraid we will die. It is awful...
I feel you gurl........I almost feel chest pain everyday even though my 2 ECGs and xray says im normal!
+kim aquino i know... Its awful... 😒
My HA has gotten worse recently. I spent the whole of last night looking up causes for my stomach ache and ended up not sleeping, afraid it was cancer and i was going to die.
+A yes very awful but u know try relax and girl ull get over that I promise
+A what sometimes sort of helps me is thinking the following. Ok so what if there is something wrong with me. I cant change that. Just accept it as stress and worrying will not help it. If you want to chat sometime let me know. It is better to talk to someone who has been there and is going through similar stuff. The worst thing is that we have physical symptoms and they are so ridiculous sometimes 😒
Hi Kate. Thank you so much for uploading this. I've never heard anybody else describe so perfectly an issue I have experienced my entire life. It started around the same age as you, and has been on and off ever since. Thank you, thank you. xx
I really appreciate that you chose to post this video. Having anxiety is so difficult to deal with and even harder to explain to people who don't experience it.
I'm so glad you uploaded this. So many youtubers have posted videos about social anxiety etc and this is the one I relate to the most.
I have Generalised Anxiety Disorder and it takes over my life so much, I overthink and worry to an excessive amount about everything! Whether it's health or if my boyfriend doesn't let me know he got to work safe, I think the worst in every situations and worry so much to the point where I've passed out. I know it's irrational but it's so horrible and takes over so many things in my life.
It's so reassuring to know that so many people deal with similar things so thank you.
Until 15 minutes ago, I had never seen one of your videos. I also never comment on UA-cam videos. I just wanted to say thank you for this video. I cried throughout the whole thing. Mental illness, in whatever form it comes in, is worth speaking about. I have been suffering from Health Anxiety myself. If more people discussed it, maybe other wouldn't feel so alone. Thank you again for your honesty and courage. x
Oh my goodness I'm so grateful that you uploaded this video. I also suffer from health anxiety and no one seems to quite get it. I don't know anyone else with health anxiety and when people discuss it they only talk about general anxiety, not health. I feel completely the same as you and this video actually made me really emotional. Some nights I can't sleep in fear I won't wake up, I get scared to eat out in case someone has poisoned my food. I get all the fears of illnesses like cancer or internal bleeding or failure of some sort of organ. There's also the fear of riding in cars with anyone I'm not used to, like a lot of my friends are passing and buying cars at the moment and I miss out on a lot of fun trips because I'm scared of them crashing. Public transport scares me, crowded hot places scare me... Having a constant fear of death is the worst thing in the world. I can't say I've always had health anxiety but I've always been a worrier. I'd say I've had health anxiety for a little over a year now and it's been a very confusing time for me. 'If you're scared of dying, you're not living' is something I'm going to keep in the back of my head and I'm going to try and live my life remembering that. Thanks Kate, you're amazing.
It's such a relief to see others that suffer from the same thing I do. I understand everything you're going through. I hope that everyone around the world including us get over this sickening anxiety. One step at a time. Much love.
Hi Kate, I admire you for uploading this, I completely understand how scary it must of been for you to post. I suffer from anxiety and over the years my anxiety has grown from being worried about what people think about me and worried I'm going to fail and feelin like a total waste of space to now wanting to stay indoors and just hide, sounds stupid I know, I'm nearly 27 years old and get frustrated as I feel it's dictating my life and when I try and change something my anxiety kicks in as if its trying to protect me from the world. I hope that makes some kind of sense. I'm in the process of being made redundant at work so that triggered my anxiety and left me feeling low. In a weird way it's comforting knowing I'm not the only one that suffers from a mental illness. Just wish I could make it go away
Oh bless you Lindsay, I feel for you because I get the same feelings and know how shitty it is! I think the only people that understand are those that suffer with anxiety and it helps to talk with them I feel, I don't have any friends and I wish there was something to bring people together that suffer with really bad anxiety, know that you're not alone and there's always people you can talk to! I too worry what people are thinking of me and my therapist once said to me, Lauren why would people be talking about you they have their own problems to think about than to be making judgements on you which is very true, I hope things work out with your job situation keep going! X
Thank you so much for replying Lauren :-), it's so true that only people that have some kind of anxiety know what you're going through and are capable of understanding the irrational thoughts. I wish there was something to bring us all together as well, I only admitted out loud in the last year or so that I suffer from anxiety and it did release a huge weight off my shoulders but I still feel so wary of who I can admit it too because there's ignorant people out there that just don't understand and think your over reacting, if only they could go a day or an hour in our minds and see how they would cope :-). Keep being strong, we will overcome this :-)! X
I feel exactly the same why is anxiety so horrible, and as you said it is extremely frustrating!! And it also stops me from doing things I want to do! Adding to it I just feel so alone why does this happen to so many of us :-(
It's ironic that there's so many people that experience the same or similar anxieties yet it's still such a lonely place. I think as long as we all stick together and support each other it will help our journey to recovery x
Thank you so much for this video. I struggle with health anxiety practically every day, and hearing you talk about it is very soothing and reassuring.
Just today, I thought I found/did actually find a small, soft lump on my thighbone, and after freaking out for an hour about cancers (as always), I looked and determined it is, if anything, lipoma, a fat cluster.
But then I started worrying about other pains. Whether I have a hernia from lifting something too heavy, and if the odd sudden pain I felt during...activity last night is indicative of something scary.
Always scary, it never stops. I just want to be able to live life free of worry, like you said.
I had no idea this was a thing until after watching your video and reading the comments. *hugs* to everyone that might be going through this. I hope you all get better somehow. Well done Kate for making this video!
I experienced mental illness several times in my life now...not from me, but from my family and friends. And I think that you really have to take it serious and talk about it! It's really awesome that you're sharing your experiences and make people aware if it. As a person with mental illness you have to live with the disease, you have to find a way to cope with it, beacause it probably will never go away. I also think that talking about it and finding others, who have the same problem is the best therapy ever. I wish you all the luck and I strongly believe that you will make it! :)
I have so much respect for you for posting this and just looking at the comments alone it seems like you have already helped loads of people just by talking about it! I have irrational anxiety to a stupid degree it's not set to any one thing but can range from being convinced I'm going to die if I even slightly bump my head (and I'm clumsy so that happens a lot) to having a hysterical crying fit because my boyfriend hasn't text me to say he's arrived at work and I think he's had a car crash and died. I go from 0-100 in two seconds and the most frustrating thing is I know I am doing it but am powerless to stop it. I think something really striking about anxiety is how often people don't talk about it - I never do and yet when I hear something like this video suddenly so much makes sense and feels familiar. Whilst that's really upsetting because the idea of lovely girls liek yourself feeling this way is horrible it's also so reassuring to know that it is an illness and it is not just me. You deserve to live to the max Kate and I cried when you said you didn't think you had because that's how I feel too - I've never been to an exotic place I've never done wild nights out because I'm scared of loosing control and being in 'danger' (from what I have no clear idea) keep on fighting it because we are all right behind you! x
Wow it's so comforting to know that someone I have watched and looked up to for years suffers with something that I have for so long. It can be isolating and terrifying and I've wasted so many hours panicking to myself! Well done for making this video . So brave xxx
This was such an amazing video. I have had horrible health anxiety for a few years where I've convinced myself that I have things wrong with me mainly cancer and convincing myself I have founds lumps and things and it's been horrible so it's comforting to know you are not the only person that does these things.
You were so brave to tell everyone! Thankyou for sharing :) xx
Thankyou so much for making this video Kate, i've been suffering with a constant fear of dying since my dad suddenly passed away last year. It's so nice to hear of someone going through a similar thing xxx
I am really glad you uploaded this. I think it is incredibly brave to speak out. You may not realize, but it helps people going through the same thing to know they're not alone. I was diagnosed with having an anxiety and panic disorder in 2010. I was going through a really tough time in my personal life, and out of the blue I started to feel increasingly nervous about every day thing. I had an incredible fear of being sick, physically vomiting or choking. The idea of it terrified me. It would take one small thing like a memory or a slight queasy feeling and a panic attack would come on, with nausea as a side effect of my anxiety making things even worse. Despite seeing a doctor and psychiatrists - I didn't realize it was actually called "health anxiety".
So thank you for this video, you learn something new everyday. And thank you for spreading your message. x
I've always had mild anxiety and depression, kinda always been a worrier, and then it became health anxiety, especially when I was a teen a really close family-friend died of cancer aged 26. I am 25 this year, so its been a odd few years where i have actually had health issues (i have mild IBS) but the doctors genuinely believe my anxiety causes it...so its a cycle which is damaging and so bad. You are so right. Every time i have had a health-scare and every time i worry about it, i realize how much time i waste being scared, or irritable or just being negative when life can be so amazing. Health anxiety is awful, i'd get rid of it tomorrow, but its also taught me to value life so much more because i am more aware than some about its fragility. Great honest video Kate xxx
Im in the exact same boat as you, I've also got IBS and a current on going health scare has my anxiety through the roof unfortunately. Glad someone addressed health anxiety for once xx
ItsSabby Bless you. Its such a common issue but it certainly takes over your life. The reassuring thing is that it doesn't damage you in the long run and can be eased with relaxation/diet but still if life is stressing you out at all its the first thing to act up, for myself anyway. X
Hannah Galpin that exactly describes my situation, I wish there was some kind of support group because just reading these comments has really encouraged me
@@MrAlElmes search for trey jonas on youtube.he has a health anxiety support group
Hi Kate, thank you for sharing your experience with us. I have suffered from social anxiety since the age of 18 and every now and then it triggers. My sister suffers from health anxiety and hers started right after having her little girl, she questions her mortality all the time and I think it's because she feels her existence is even more precious now that she has a little one to look after. It really helps to know there are other people out there going through the same thing. You are an inspiration. Stay strong and keep smiling. X
You hit the nail on the head Kate, "worrying about dying stopped me from living". This exactly describes so many years of my life. In a way, it's really nice to hear someone else describe it, so thank you so much for making this video, i really appreciate how difficult it must have been!xx
I'm currently, and have for the last 5 years (I am also 25, like you!) it has been on and off a daily occurance. I try to think that no amount of worrying will change the outcome, whether I am actually having what ever illness or symptom I am creating in my mind. Sometimes it works, other times, such as right now, it does nothing. Very proud of you for this video!
You poor love, I really feel for you, and think your so brave to upload this video. I'm sure there are people who watch UA-cam who can relate to your fears, and maybe talking together you can help each other.. Admitting you have a problem is always the first step in recovery.....I hope one day very soon you can finally say that you have booked a fabulous family holiday abroad and not worry about any health issues. Sending you great big hugz and lots of love xxxxxxxxxxxx
Brave of you to post this Kate! I have a chronic illness and also struggle with anxiety and I can empathize with a lot of this. I hope this video can be a good step for you in not feeling ashamed about these 'irrational' feelings and know that we support you!
Thank you so much for making this. When I was younger, I had severe anxiety due to a lot going on in my life. After I had gotten past that, I was fine for years. I was confident and ready to take on anything that headed my way. Recently, I had a bad reaction to a medication that I took and it triggered that health anxiety right back. I'm almost 18, and I'm in my last year of high school, and it just seems that this anxiety has hit me in the absolute worst time. I'm just happy to see that someone else understands and can explain the same feelings I had. Ever since my reaction, I've been so afraid it's had a lasting effect on my brain and panic attacks have become much more prominent in my life. Again, thank you so much. It definitely helped.
I can't believe someone else has this. I genuinely didn't realise it was an actual thing. I have had health anxiety ever since I was 7 (I'm 20 now) triggered by my grandad dying of cancer. I have panic attacks and worry constantly about dying and it is horrible. It really does hold you back. Please update on your progress as it might help me with mine. You are definitely so brave to do this, I can't even tell my family let alone make a video and post it online! Thank you so much Kate!
I thank you more than you'll ever know for posting this. I've struggled with health anxiety for a few years now and have recently noticed, since I got pregnant with my little boy, that it has got a lot worse. I don't know if I'm 100% ready to open up about it, more than just admitting to having it, to strangers, or even people I know but it really helps to see someone who also struggles with this have the guts to open up about their experience with it. It's very scary and I pray that you are able to get past it and do whatever you want with your life, without fear of anything! You're a very strong person and I believe you will go far in life, as if you haven't already. :)
I have this and I'm so happy somebody like you is putting information about health anxiety out there. It runs my entire life, it is so tiring and so stressful and everybody around you thinks it's complete nonsense because what you're afraid of makes no sense to them. I'm really glad you made this video, and so much power to you!
Dear ANYONE struggling with this issue. You are not alone! This type of anxiety is so insanely difficult to manage, but we all can overcome it. I struggled with Health Anxiety and OCD for around 7 years, and finally managed to overcome it. You can do it!!! If you can get help through a therapist, I’d highly recommend it. You got it! Keep going on, one day at a time. I know it’s rough, but you can do it!
This made me cry because I feel like I suffer with the same things, ever since I can remember I have worried about dying and getting illnesses such as appendicitis,meningitis, cancer , heart attacks and especially when there has been flu scares like bird flu and swine flu and even ebola makes me feel sick. Thank you so much for making this video because even just to know that whats going on in my head isn't only just me and it comforts me so much. I know how hard it is, thank you so much Kate! Xx
I'm so proud of you for talking about this, if i'd seen this a year ago it would've helped me so much, so i'm sure someone will be watching it out there right now and think 'i'm not actually crazy, this is just something that i need to face and get help with'.
Watching this got me out of a panic attack. Thank you.
Thank you so much for filming and posting this. I've been dealing with terrible anxiety the past few weeks. It just helps to know you aren't alone. Doesn't matter that your anxiety is different from mine. The fact that I'm not alone in how I feel and how my body reacts feels like such a huge weight is lifted. It doesn't really make sense. Thank you for being strong and posting this. From what I've seen in the comments, it looks like you've helped more than just one person. Thank you Kate xx
you are sending out such a powerful message in this video, that someone like yourself who seems like you have everything together can have something like that going on without anyone knowing. its ok not to be ok. mental health is so important and im so gla you have been able to use your power here to be able to help. well wishes xx
This was so sweet and genuine. I really appreciate your honesty. Many of us have secret disorders or anxieties that hold us back. It's good to know we're not alone in fighting them.
Hey Kate :) Even though I have never had to deal with health anxiety your video was a huge inspiration! I think it is a wonderful message to live your life without having any fears. It is a mantra that ANYONE should live by! Throughout the video I thought that you might start crying but towards the end it was so nice to see that you began to confirm yourself and started smiling. I really wish that you can get over your issue and accomplish all the things you look forward to! Remember that you have a lot of people out here who only wish for your best! ❤️
Wow well done its great to see you trying to help others. I have had health anxiety since I can remember and in the last 5 years since my dad died suddenly, its became overwhelming.
There needs to be more honesty over anxiety. People can have the tendency to ridicule it or tell you to stop worrying etc but it is not as easy as that. Its very deep rooted and I find meditation and yoga to be amazing at showing some light. I appreciate people like you who are not afraid to show anyone can have this stay strong xxx
I have so much respect for you filming this video Kate! You are a massive inspiration. It just goes to show you never know what people are going through/ have been through and I would never of guessed that you suffered with something like this. I have been suffering with seasonal depression since I was 16. I know it's different to what you experience but feel that I can relate to you so much in this video! Lots of love and please keep up your amazing videos xxx
Thankyou for this video. I don't personally suffer with health anxiety, but I've been suffering with anxiety and depression for a long time. I've also missed out on so many opportunities in life because of this and your words have really helped. I'm going to start making changes from today to try and get past my own issues. Thank you again, so much love for you! xx
I completely know how you feel. I definitely have had health anxiety which has stemmed from symptoms of panic attacks, all due to social anxiety and fearing public situations since high school. I know how it feels to be so irrationally out of control and have symptoms of panic attacks rule your life. It's horrible. It's been so serious I've almost had to quit university a few times, but each time I've managed to work through it and I go through periods of feeling fine and not getting panic attacks, to getting them constantly. It's hard, I've definitely felt I've sheltered myself and not pushed myself enough to have opportunities and social experiences I should have.. but I'm getting better. Thank you for having the courage to make this video, there's always someone out there dealing with the something similar, who'll understand
You don't understand how much this video has helped me. All my life I have never been affected by anxiety in any shape or form and three weeks ago my mum has developed health anxiety and it has been so hard for her and for us too see her go through it. THANKYOU for this video xxx
I could sit here and write an essay on how much I respect you for this video, but I'll narrow it down to just saying thankyou. I have been so anxious lately that I even have panic attacks in my dreams. I was unable to visit a friend because I 'knew' that something bad would happen. I'm 19 and I'm terrified of the world, that's not right! So Kate, thankyou for being brave enough to share your story and encourage myself and so many others to keep fighting and get help. We all deserve so much more than a life filled with anxious thoughts, and it's time to live it.
Thankyou so much for uploading this kate💜 for a while I was really scared and worried of anything health related and every time I would read something about a hospital or doctors it would trigger a panic attack/anxiety attack. one time in my assembly I had a panic attack when they were talking about cancer and from then on I was so scared of having to sit through one again. I totally understand what you went through and feeling like what were seeing was actually happening to you. now, watching this video and looking through the comments I feel a lot better knowing I'm not the only one that has gone through this.. thankyou again Kate, ilysm😘
Thank you so much Kate! I've suffered from generalized anxiety disorder as well as performance anxiety for the majority of my life. And just as you experienced there's been times when it's been much worse and almost debilitating, and other times when it's more in the background. I too have found myself missing out on so many things, and realizing it's taking far too much a hold on my life. Your strength and courage gives me so much hope and I'm so glad you're taking the steps you need to improve your life. I hope to do the same!
Really appreciate you sharing your story! Although I can't say I understand fully what you have had to go through fully, I have also suffered with anxiety and other mental health issues so I am so happy that you have spoken about your experiences. I really hope that you find coping mechanisms and manage your anxieties xxxxxx
I am so glad you didn't delete this video! I think the way you have done it is brilliant, I have health anxiety and I am the same as you I worry about having all different types of illnesses.
I havn't been on holidays and to lots of different places out of fear of being ill and you're right it does stop you!
I think you are very brave to film this
well done you!xxx
Thank you for sharing this video Kate, your a very inspirational person to others. I'm 14 and I think I suffer from health anxiety too, if I don't feel well for example, then I will worry and start to panic thinking that I'm developing some bad illness and look up symptoms on the internet which doesn't help at all. A member of my family suffered from cancer a few years ago and luckily they got better, however, I think that has had a huge impact on my anxiety as I now worry about the possibility of becoming ill later in life, I also worry about things like going on holiday because I'm afraid that I will become ill or something when I'm away from home, and watching this video has made me realise that I need to stop worrying and start living,- so a huge thank you Kate for sharing your story and I hope that you continue to manage your health anxiety and that it gets easier for you 💖 lots of love xxxxx
Thank you so much for making this video. I'm 15 and have felt the same way you do about death etc for the past 3 years from a science lesson we once had. I have never known what it was for and if it was just me being stupid. Having these thoughts and feelings about death have stopped me doing so many things I have wanted to do but you have now made me realise that I do need to stop letting it get in my way. Thanks again 💜
I am so glad you made this video Kate, I've never heard any other UA-camr speak out this before. And from reading the comments I didn't think it was so common either.
It seems so strange how just one event can trigger months or even years of anxiety (in your case the food tech lesson). I went through a similar process; my uncle (not blood related) died very suddenly and unexpectedly of a heart attack in 2012 when I was 15. Ever since then it's like my body has convinced myself that the same is going to happen to me. It's not so bad recently now that I'm beginning to understand how it all works, but the anxiety I felt meant that I would get chest pains, palpitations and twitches, which made me believe that I was going to have a heart attack and die! It's such a vicious circle that causes so much stress and pain. I am really happy you made the video to raise awareness about this issue that isn't that widely spoken about.
Much love xx
Is it possible to have acute health anxiety? For the most part I am fine, but when I experience a very small medical problem, I freak out over it and can carry on the symptoms for months even though something may not be wrong any more.
Oh Kate what a wonderful video! I suffer with social anxiety disorder and like you it has stopped me doing things I've always wanted to do but after watching your video I 100% agree that mental health is so important and a mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. I also decided that this year is the year I'm going to help myself get stronger and get out there and do the things I've always wanted!! Stay strong Kate, you are a wonderful mum to your beautiful little Archie. Keep up the fab work and good luck xxxxx
I'm so late onto watching this, but thankyou so much for making this video, for the first time ever in my life I actually feel like someone actually understands. I see so many similarities between me and yourself which is helping me so much, I'm in shock at how much I relate. i even recorded "worrying about dying has stopped me from living" onto my phone, and I'm going to listen to it every day, because health anxiety has been ruining my life and my body for 10+ years now and I'm ready to make a change xxx hope you are doing well
Well done for posting this Kate I'm sure it will help a lot of people. You're right to make the most of your life and do the things you want to, many of us are guilty of holding back for one reason or another. You're still young and you've certainly not wasted your life and hopefully it will highlight the need to seek support for others out there. X
It's video helped me so much. I've been struggling with this for my entire life and everything you described is exactly what I have always felt. It's nice to know that I'm not the only "crazy" one. You're right, this isn't living. I just had a health scare as well, which is why I searched this in the first place.... To look for relief, help or support in some way. I have a hard time talking to anyone about it because my fears are so irrational that no one really listens... I just feel judged. Thank you for posting this and I hope you have found relief
i have recently started to suffer with anxiety and your the first video i have really connected too. its the scariest thing ive ever had to deal with and talk about can trigger tears in an instant and im a 34year old man who is fit as a fiddle. your a beautiful person inside and out and i hope you can cure your problem, good luck!
I know this is an old video but thank you so much for talking out on this. I’ve had anxiety for a few years now but over the last year and but it’s morphed from an OCD type (checking taps, switches, locks etc) to health anxiety. Mine is more cancer focused, I think I’ve convinced myself I’ve had every type known at some point. The rational part of me says I know it’s anxiety, I’ve been worrying about it for over a year and nothing has changed therefore I’m fine, the chances are slim. Then the other side of me is like, it has to happen to someone, my body is telling me something etc. Luckily I don’t suffer with panic attacks but I feel like it effects my health. I find when I’m going through a severe period I start feeling dizzy, and I’m pretty sure this is just down to anxiety. I feel like people don’t understand and it has a massive impact on my life. I’m just trying to figure out a way to almost focus on other things to try and forget about it if that makes sense?
I am in tears just watching this. I have been living with this since 2008 and it goes and comes back. You are so brave to share this. May God bless you and ease your pain❤️
Love this video Katie, I have a phobia of death, anxiety and depression and it's amazing to know that even though you have health anxiety you have accomplished so much! I feel like a failure some times because I had to quit school and I'm watching all my friends get accepted into Uni's and I can't even go shopping without panicking. But I know that I will be able to accomplish the little things and that is what is important to me. I never thought that I would have a blog or have toured around Belgium with my choir- to most people that's not impressive but to me that's my own little achievement :) and those little achievements are what I need to focus on
Everything you said is exactly how I feel. Some days I am fine, but most days I am googling symptoms (worst thing to do!) and worrying that I have something wrong with me. Dying terrifies me and I need constant reassurance that I'm ok and nothing is wrong. It got to a point where I wouldnt even get in someone elses car because I thought they would have a crash and I would die. Getting on a plane was a big part of my anxiety and I conquered that last year by flying all the way to Australia! I still have really bad days and have to stop myself from reading daily mail health scare articles and ringing my mum to ask her if my combination of symptoms is normal, but now I have forced myself to think "worrying won't stop things from happening, if I keep worrying I will make myself ill anyway" its really hard to make people understand and its really upsetting to deal with people rolling their eyes when you try to explain - I think you are very brave to share this with us and I hope you are comforted to know that you are not alone xxx
well done Kate for uploading this video :) ive had a fear of being sick since i was about 12 which can be very similar to health anxiety i got so bad, at one point i wouldn't leave the house in case i came in contact with someone who wasnt well and i didn't for about 6 months, the thought of going to the shops filled me with dread and anxiety. when i turned 18 i decided that i wasnt going to let this thing stop me from living the life i want and i now have a job in a drugstore/pharmacy and i absolutely love it, aswell as the people i work with. they understand if i need to sit by myself for a little while or feel a bit anxious which i still do feel most morning but obviously its alot more manageable. i just want people to know that things can get better and will!! 6 months ago i would never have dreamt i would be able to work in such an environment and actually enjoy it.
in the last few months i have made myself do everything that i was scared of and im so much more happy for it once you start doing things you start to feel so much better and life becomes easier i know see my friends, work and started a youtube channel all things i was terrified of 6 months ago :)
wow thats alot of writting :/ i hope someone finds comfort in this and starts doing the things that scare them :) wishing anyone reading this all the best :) xx
Thanks so much for sharing this! You have already taken the first step to overcoming it by speaking about it.. Something that I struggle with sometimes since a lot of people don't take it seriously it was nice to read the comments and see people that truly understand x
Such a brave video to make! My sister suffers from health anxiety - she's early thirties and has had it for around 10 years - and it's heartbreaking seeing someone you care so much for going through something so horrible. All we could do was try and reassure her as much as we could and be there whenever she needed us. About six months ago she adopted this exact new attitude you are about to try and she is a completely different person! It's amazing! Don't get me wrong, it still creeps back but with this new attitude she seems to approach it differently and it makes those times easier to handle. I'm so so proud of her and delighted at this new quality of life she has now got! Wishing you all the very best hon and will keep everything crossed that it works for you too xXx
Kate, I am a little late on seeing this video but am so glad you posted it. I have dealt with this since I was a little kid as well and am also 25 years old. I wasn't aware that this was a real thing and that I was just weird or crazy but knowing that so many others go through the same thing definitely helps. I liked how you said about everyone getting together and getting through it and I feel like that is a great idea. If there was some way that many people dealing with this issue could all come together and help each other, that would be awesome and very helpful.
I can totally relate to this Kate! In my teenage years I was constantly convinced that any minor thing was the beginning of a serious illness and I'd always need reassurance from friends and family that I'd be ok - people were starting to think I was crazy because I was quite obsessive about tiny things that others wouldn't even think about! I've since found that writing down everything that I'm thinking helps me to think more rationally and clearly about the situation before panicking too much! :) x
You're so brave talking about this, and I really understand everything you said, I suffer really bad OCD in scared that if my house isn't dust free and cleaned every day with certain procedures that bacteria might get all over me and it scares me and I spend more time cleaning my home when I know it's a losing battle because dust is everywhere I go, (which is something that makes me worse if I even think about it) than going out with friends and doing things I'd love to do with my time! I'd love to be as brave as you and say, today I'm going to just start doing things I really want too, because I don't think I'd emotionally be able too! You're such an inspiration and I love your videos xxx
So much love for you for sharing your story and uploading it- that was so brave of you! Well done, Kate! This video was so informative as I've never really heard of health anxiety so it's really good to raise awareness about all kinds of mental health issues people can suffer from! I'm sure this has helped so so many people and it's so important to let people know that anyone can suffer a mental illness and there is help available for it! Hope you're coping okay with everything! xxx
Thank you for uploading this Kate! I've now realized that I must of had a mild case of health anxiety when I was younger because I went through similar obsessions, constantly washing my hands to get rod of germs, not going on public transport because I was scared of being sick, having anxiety about not getting to sleep because I was worried that being tired would make me ill! It even got to the point that I couldnt even say the word 'sick' I had to spell it out because I thought if I said it, it would make me ill!! Its something that I've now outgrown, but I still loathe the idea of getting ill in anyway, and can't stand being around people being sick!! Again, thank you for uploading this!! Best wishes xx
thanks for this video ! suffering from health anxiety since last year and I can't even imagine, how anyone could handle this for that many years, as you were. You're literally a warrior, be proud of yourself ! We can do this and live a happy, balanced life xx greetings from germany !
Kate, bless your heart for uploading this video!! I can see this must have been really hard for you to talk about- thank you so much for choosing to share this with us. Although I don't suffer from health anxiety, I am quite an anxious person and I tend to worry and stress out a lot, mostly over silly things. At the moment, I'm in a dilemma where I really hate my job, and certain people whom I don't get on with. It's made me dread going to work nowadays, so I have made the decision to leave after 10 years (not very easy after such a long time), but so much has changed within that time frame, that I no longer feel valued it appreciated! It doesn't do anything for my lack of confidence or self esteem, and I'm 32!! But I'm excited about what the future may hold for me, so I've decided to take that step and look for another job! I appreciate it will be hard, but I won't give up- I know you can work through your issues too, as you have such a strong family network around you! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you, and keep you in my prayers, and I hope you get better soon and live the life you deserve! I've realised now that life is way too short to stress over things which may not even happen, and also to change something if you're no longer happy- you should embrace life and everything it has to offer you! I've had some struggles in my life, it hasn't always been easy, and there have been moments when it could have fallen apart, but my parents and family have always stuck together, and that, in itself, is the most important thing in the world. Keep on smiling Kate, you only live once, make the most if it, and keep on being the fab person you are, cos we all love you xxxx
Thank you so much for sharing this video Kate. I have only spoken about my health anxiety a few times but I haven't been completely honest about what it is I worry about. Allergies is my problem too, I don't know when it started but it takes over my life. You have definitely helped one person. Hope that you and your family are doing well x
I can't thank you enough for this video, I've suffered from anxiety, bipolar and other things for years and since turning twenty it's escalated to the point I can't go out or see people as I'm scared I'm dying or having a stroke or a heart attack etc from any little pain or numbness. It's put a strain on my relationship and is ruling my life and it's time for it to stop! I've watched this over and over as it's so comforting to not be alone in this all 💖
I think many people are born with an OCD type brain and it creates these kinds of problems without someone even really knowing - it definitely warps how you see so many things (not even regular OCD things like counting and cleaning, just life things and how you perceive the world around you) I am glad you uploaded this, for your mental health and other peoples, you are so brave! x
cant thank you enough for making this video !!!! im 19 and going through quite smiliar things.. knowing im not the only one already makes me feel so much better. i think ill save this video and watch it when i feel like getting a panic attack.. thank you so much kate !
Thanks Kate :) I've recently had to go through a quite distressing time with a lot of health checks and scans and I've discovered some things about me that aren't normal, Im quite unique. This has brought on health anxiety in me, and to be honest I worry a lot. There have been other things to do with my health and other peoples health which has made me worry too. However, I am begging to cope with it and I've decided to tell myself ' yes you will die some day but you are alive right now, enjoy it!'. Its really hard especially when you get aches and pains, it makes you worry. But I'm glad you put this video up and that I know that I'm not the only one who get these bad thoughts. I remind myself that its all in the mind as well and you know what, I'm not scared of being ill, I'm scared of not having people around me and not being happy. I think the most important thing in life is to be happy and know that you are valuable to people and that you have a meaning. I think thats how I cope as well, reminding myself of the people I have around me and all the happy places and things I've done with them. Again thank you and I really hope we can make this something :) xxxxx
Kate your are amazing for sharing this with everyone. My partner suffers with anxiety and panic attacks, so I understand how hard it is for you, your family and friends. Stay strong and keep fighting, you will keep winning this battle. ❤️
Hi kate, firstly I just wanted to say how proud I am of you for being brave enough to make and post this video, it's something I'd never be brave enough to do, I suffer with anxiety mainly health and social anxiety and I find it hard even talking to my therapist let alone what you've just done so a big well done! I'm sorry that you live with this it's awful you've definitely helped me realise I'm not alone with how I feel not that I'd wish it on anyone else, glad to hear you're fit and well after you're scare I'm happy that you have ricky and gorgeous little Archie I love your videos so much you're the most genuine and lovely person on UA-cam keep doing what you're doing please because I sit waiting for you're videos! Big big love xx
I just found your channel because of this video. Thank you for sharing your story. I know it was difficult. I experience the same thing. It helps to know that I am not alone. Not that I am happy that you struggle also. You are very brave! You have a lovely family and I wish you all blessings! ❤
Thank you for sharing this Kate. About a year ago I had a blood clot in my leg and spent a week in hospital (I'm 17, so it's rare for this to happen at a young age.) I get so paranoid about it happening again, to the point that almost daily, I imagine the symptoms again and freak myself out. I mentioned it to my mum but she just thought I was over reacting, but your video has given me the courage to try and talk to her about it, so I don't have to live my whole life in fear!
That video touched me and I think it will a lot of people, thanks for finding the courage to post this I know how hard that must have been. Hope we all manage to rid ourselves of anxiety such a horrible debilitating mental illness x
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Kate. I can only imagine how much courage it must have taken to put it all out here for the world. I can relate so, so much to your experiences...thinking about how I've been so afraid of dying because of a weird symptom or sensation here or there (that rarely amounts to anything, and never to anything serious) that I've actually not really been living. Like you, I've experienced health anxiety in bouts. There have been times in my life during which I've sort of floated happily along, keeping busy and feeling healthy and confident. And there have been other times during which I've spent countless hours, days, and even months stressing over having a brain tumor or a heart condition because of my hypersensitivity to what's happening in my body. Little did I know that by worrying about these illnesses and run-of-the-mill symptoms, I was actually willing physical symptoms into fruition and thus making myself feel much worse. I don't know any of the answers to curing health anxiety or making it more manageable, outside of counseling and just having a good support system, but I do know that it is an incredibly difficult thing to live with and it's always reassuring to know that you aren't the only one who deals with it. Keep fighting the good fight, love. Thanks again. :)
I really really hope you see this message
I found this tonight and I am sat here crying as watching you is like looking in a mirror, I am your age, also with a little baby and have also had health anxiety for many years. Having my son actually made me more scared of dying as I was so scared to leave him and it got a lot worse after he was born. It got to the point that I could barely function day to day because the worry and feAr consumed my every waking thought. I am happy to say I am doing a little better and am still working through it but your video made me feel less alone and more hopeful that I will get through it and not to let it hold me back. Thank you for inspiring me and making me smile.
This video was just what I needed
Thank you so much
Love Shelly xx
+Oh So Shelly ooh I really hope u're getting better :) I've been having the same issue ever since I was a kid but I've never been diagnosed with anxiety, nobody ever understood what i've been feeling. You dont feel it till you get it. Right now I still get health anxiety sometimes, but I feel like I have a general anxiety right now. Just afraid afraid all the time of what could happen , of losing control ..... I saw a doctor but he just gave me medication. It does help but just for a limited period of time, it just helps you calm down but once you stop taking it, you start feeling bad again..... have you found any solutions?
I've had health anxiety for a while, recently it has turned into some of the same fears of allergies as well. It helps me to relax and not be as hard on myself just knowing that others have the same thoughts. So, thank you for having the courage to post this, but at least take solace in knowing that many others have the exact same feelings.
This helped me in absolutely crazy ways. Thank you so so much. I'm 25 and have these thoughts about how my anxiety has kept me from so much too. I just had a panic attack tonight over health and thought - this is not ok! I can't let this keep happening, I need to change it! Thank you so much. I don't feel so alone 💗
Very comforting to see other youtubers with this issue. I developed HA a little less than 2 years ago. Now I get sick at least once a month, have constant headaches, migraines, stomach problems, chest problems. And I know it's all in my head, but I constantly convince myself I've got a brain tumor or brain cancer. I am trying to get control of it, but it can be almost impossible. HA is far worse than generalized anxiety. I could be totally at peace and just when I think I'm in the clear and things are getting better, out of nowhere get a headache that gets worse and doesn't go away for weeks at a time (that is also usually paired with dizziness, fatigue, even confusion). I will probably end up getting an MRI soon, just for some peace of mind since head problems do run in my family, but I know I can't keep relying on expensive tests forever. I had several hundreds of dollars worth of chest xrays and exams done to rule out heart problems I was 100% certain I had (turned out to be anxiety-induced GERD) .
thank you so much for posting this kate. I know i suffer with anxiety and have been diagnosed and and see someone, but health, i never realised but it really is something that does affect me. It doesnt sound like its as bad as you had, but i think its just a part of my anxiety. And i too find comfort in perfoming arts. Its a complete escape for me, get out of myself and become someone else. Forget about my problems. It sounds stupid that someone who has anxiety cant possibly be a performer, being inf ront of people, but there is so much more to it. Its not like that but yeah, now im rambling!!! but yeah, thanks for posting this kate, made my head clearer
This video really resonates with me, I've felt like this for so long. I've felt anxious about my health completely unreasonably for as long as I can remember, I remember as a tiny child worrying that I'd accidentally swallowed something that could poison me like bleach despite not having had any known contact with it? In more recent years it's triggered what I think are quite obsessive behaviours, as in 'if 'x' happens than 'y' won't happen to me', often revolving around looking at the clock at certain times, which sounds so mad! I've never told anyone because I always felt like it was embarrassing but I suppose things just manifest themselves in different ways.
Anyway, thank you so much for this video, it's really shone some light on the issue for me, even if I did only discover it six months after it was posted! xxxx
Thank you for this video Kate! It helped me a lot! I've had anxiety since I was 19, Im now 24. It started brutally and it was horrible at the beggining, I had the same symptoms that you had especially at nightt , but I learnt to deal with those panic attacks. But recently, my anxiety showed up again, but with different symptoms. Basically fear of losing control , lonlyness, and other things that will probably never happen but that the brain makes you feel very bad about. I guess PMS makes it worse too. Like you said, brain is an incredible organ but it can also make you struggle a lot if you start overthinking like you and I do sometimes. It's a very hard experience and I hope we'll all get over it one day :) It's always good to talk about it :) xoxoxo
+Dolly bow bow Kate Murnane sweety are you still struggling with it ? or you have been able to get rid of it by now? Do you think we can fight agaisnt it without medication?
I'm so proud of you for putting this up. It must have been hard but I'm happy you did. It defiantly will help you now that it's out there and people know about this & can also relate. You're amazing and beautiful. Even if you do miss out on things in life, who cares. Everyone has something putting them down and making life harder for them. Just live life how you can & push yourself sometimes. I have social anxiety & I feel the same way as you. I would be a much happier person if I didn't have it but I accept it. It's hard but all I can do is be the best person I can be. Stay strong :) ily
Thank you so much for making this video as it really speaks to me, seeing as I used to have the same fears myself. I can particularly relate to the whole dying issue and health scares as well since it also started for me when I was eleven years old. However after quite some time I realized that I didn't want to go through life like this and basically forced myself to stop. It feels so good however to know that someone else has gone through the exact same this as I have, and can relate to it.
Kate this video really touched my heart. You are so brave for talking about this and such an inspiration. Anxiety is a massive topic that everyone tries to gloss over in today's society. It's so wonderful to see you speaking out and making people aware. Keep smiling Angel. Thank you so much xx
I personally suffer from OCD and I am 14 years old feel that it's held me back from so many opportunities and you have inspired em to actually start living life to the fullest and remember you don't need to rush you can take baby steps because even the smallest step is success