Something that I don’t see talked about much is how Health anxiety affects relationships. Being in this constant health anxiety cycle looks so scary, and so irrational. I don’t know how to balance being terrified in the moment, without over-burdening my partner (expecting him to be my therapist or know how to make me feel better) or making them worry or think that I’m being silly. People don’t know what to do and we both end up accidentally harming each other in the process. Feeling terrified of imminent death is just so much more bitter when you’re afraid to talk about it, in case you’ll say something in a desperate cry for help, that you may regret later. You feel like you’re not only dying, but that you’re dying completely alone.
Yes, thank you for sharing this. You are not alone with this experience. Health anxiety greatly affects relationships. I have a lesson on how to negotiate this and how to talk about this with your loved ones in my health anxiety treatment course. If you have an interest in getting further help for health anxiety, go to PaigePradko.com. I have a discount code for UA-cam subscribers YTTENOFF.
Paige, you're literally an angel on earth. You bring me so much comfort to know that you understand exactly the hell I live in everyday. I've become agoraphobic because my symptoms are so intense. Even the thought of going out to the park with my kiddos dibilitates me. This is a horrible way to live.
I am so sorry that you are experiencing health anxiety and agoraphobia. I specialize in both of those conditions. If you should ever need more support, I have a course and support group helping people recover from health anxiety. I also include how to do exposures that will help your agoraphobia. Here is the link should you be interested: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.
hello :) i stumbled across your channel back in late 2019 after i had my first panic attack, which was the beginning of a really bad anxiety / agoraphobia episode ... your videos have helped me so much during the time i was waiting for my therapy spot, i gained enough courage to go see a therapist, because i learned to accept my anxiety and not let it run my life ... it was really really difficult and it took a lot of time and therapy, but after 2 years now i have gained a lot of confidence and happiness back and my life quality has been great! i just wanted to thank you for your videos, they really did help me to not be hopeless in very dark times! wish you all the best!
Pinpointing the type of anxiety I have has been so eye-opening and your channel helped so much with that! Would you be able to make a video for people who have health anxiety but have actual real health issues & illnesses? The constant worry is exhausting 🙏🏼
Yes, that’s a great suggestion. I do cover treating health anxiety with a real health issue in detail in my course on health anxiety. But, I will add your suggestion for a video to my list. You may want to sign up for my weekly newsletter here: www.paigepradko.com for more information on health anxiety.
Bookmarks: 3:15 you can't stop triggers, such as noticing bodily sensations 3:33 at first, it's difficult to stop the rush of adrenaline in our body as it overreacts. We can, however, notice and accept the adrenaline, recognise the body is overreacting, respond with "oh well", wait for it to die down 4:27 we CAN stop rumination and catastrophizing: when we recognise we're doing it, allow the worry to be there and redirect your attention 5:12 when our hyper vigilance increases, we can accept the anxiety and observe it in a non reactive way, allow it - anxiety is not dangerous, neither are bodily sensations 6:24 we CAN stop behaviours that prevent or calm anxiety (googling, avoiding places, reassurance seeking) - safety behaviours perpetuate anxiety. Don't respond to the health anxiety, even if the brain makes you feel as if a response is needed 7:59 "what if something IS wrong?" - health anxiety is an over exaggerated response in the absence of any actual medical diagnosis
oh I know this cycle all to well 😔 but yes ... this method helped me dealing with my health anxiety along with acceptance, accepting that health anxiety won't probably ever go away completely and that that is completely fine, as now, I know how to deal with it without major disruptions to my quality of life but yes all in all, for me at least, breaking the cycle and not resorting to protective behaviour / actions is what helped the MOST... I think it was your video from the past with some graphic showcase how anxiety rises next time if I respond to it, is what helped me the most ❤️
Hi Paige, carrying that water bottle, not just me then. I’ve got into the habit of wanting a bottle of water in the car to feel safe and a “just in case”. After watching part 2 today, tomorrow no more bottle of water!!!! I’ve also reduced the frequency I wear my smart watch to stop me constantly checking stress level, heart rate etc. Thank you for your videos and taking the time to help others including myself x
I’ve had anxiety problems for 15 years now, and this is the first time I’ve heard anyone mention “the water bottle”. I thought I was the only one that did this. I used to get panic attacks in restaurants and movie theaters, and that silly water bottle would help me for some reason. I don’t really do that anymore, but I will do it at home. I didn’t think it was feeding the anxiety, I had thought that it was keeping me grounded, and in the moment. But, perhaps, I was mistaken.
Geez, I didn't realize that me bringing the water bottle along all the time was actually a thing. I have been bringing it into the bathroom to shower, in case I get the overheated feeling thing. This is horrible
I need major help. My whole life or most of it, I’m 40 now, I’ve suffered since I was 20, I feel like I’ve wasted my life to this horrible illness. I spend countless hours googling symptoms, diagnosing myself, over and over again. I’ve had “so many diseases and illnesses”. Right now I’m convinced I have ALS or MS. Thank you for your content
Hi Kelley. I am sorry that you have been suffering with health anxiety for so long. If you would like help, I have an online course that I created specifically for health anxiety. I have a private support group that accompanies the course and I am available on that support group daily. It makes a world of difference when you know exactly what to do. You can find out more here: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.
Tianna, If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Self Quiz www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz 👉👉👉 Free PDF: Why Do I Feel That in my Body? Explanations of Bodily Symptoms Due to Anxiety, Stress and Panic www.paigepradko.com/bodyanxiety 👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Course www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety Coupon Code for 10% Savings on Course for my UA-cam Subscribers YTTENOFF
Hello Paige , I'm finding your advice to be helpful but I dont it's my phone I wonder if your recording level is high enough? As I have to turn up my phone to hear you? Then other recordings are too loud. Thanks for your work and for reading this.
Hi Cheryl. Yes, I did have some audio issues when I made those videos. I appreciate your kind feedback. I have all of those issues corrected now. But, I was still learning how to operate my camera and recording devices when I originally recorded that video. I wish I had a audio/video tech living with me, lol. My husband is pretty good at yard work but runs from me when I need technical assistance. 🤣😩
Very nice video. If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
I like most of your video's doc.. it's like your my good whisperer consciousness, when I'm having this anxiety disorder. I can't wait for the part3 of health anxiety..
I am so proud of you. I think you may have been one of my first subscribers as I remember your struggles with driving exposures. That’s wonderful news and it must feel so good after all of your work. Congratulations! What would you say helped you the most?
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you so much Paige. Yes, I was here watching your videos for a long time. I would say, constantly doing exposure as much as I could, followed by adding the medication hydroxyzine. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, much stronger than Benadryl. It blocks H1 receptors and for me it blocks anxiety. It also makes you drowsy, but only when I take it at night. I can take it during the day for exposure. It's non addictive and non habit forming unlike benzos. I do want to add that I do not have to take hydroxyzine every day. I took it a lot at first but not much anymore for anxiety. And my recent 4-Hour trip I did not need to take it at all and I'm really proud of that! I made a big push to leave the house in 2020 ironically, but after a while I was home again and couldn't leave. In 2021 the breakthrough took place. I made it out to do swimming in the summer one of my favorite activities and then was stuck home again for a month, but very soon after was out again and now I've been out ever since. I really wanted to impress people and surprise people so I showed up to things like my nieces gymnastics practice to impress my sister. I started showing up at family holidays and getting some questions about how I was able to do it and I enjoyed that. Recently my biggest accomplishment, a four hour drive south for a memorial service. I've got some videos on my channel about this. I'm so proud of myself for that and I do think I impressed my brother with that drive because he was telling me he thought I'd chicken out. I may not have completely recovered in a textbook term because I still avoid bridges as much as I can and I haven't been on the highway at all. But I'm going to be working on those as well. In a practical sense I'm recovered and I like to use that word because I can travel enough to do the shopping and pick up all the tasks I have been leaving to my husband for years. The future can only get better and better and thanks Paige for all the help you've given me along the way! I know there was a shift in my mindset about it when you started giving me advice.
Thank you for sharing. I am thrilled for you. Keep up the good work and continue to challenge yourself. “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.” - W. Churchill
Ive been terrified for the last month that i have pancreatic cancer even tho its extremely rare and several very clear ct scans have shown no sign at all. The only thing they did say was my anxiety snd stress levels were really high and i just want to feel normal again this isnt me man
I am so sorry that you are experiencing health anxiety, but glad that you watched the video. Here is a playlist that may help you. If you need more help, visit PaigePradko.com
Hi, what recommendation do you have if Health Anxiety is not always triggered by a bodily sensation, but a thought or remunition like "my Mom had X and I might be getting X " (insert dreaded disease)🙂
Yes, it can be sparked by a thought. The treatment is the same. Allow the anxiety…be non reactive…no safety behaviors, no reassurance seeking and no avoidance. 😊
I’m fine until I feel like I get phlegm in my throat. Then it feels like a constant clearing of throat. Then breathing and anxiety goes crazy. Now it feels so real. Sensations are driving my crazy.
Yes, I can relate. Of course I do not know your symptoms but you may be experiencing somatic awareness ocd. It typically involves paying conscious attention to swallowing or breathing and sometimes heart beat or even blinking. I experience this will breathing. But, if your is more…I am worried that I’m sick…then it could fall into the health anxiety category.
Those are wonderful activities to do as part of your daily healthy lifestyle, but you do not want to do them in response to your anxiety. We do not want to give our brains the message that anxiety is bad or that we are trying to get rid of it, or our brains can become more anxious.
Thanks for making these! I'm not sure what category I fall into. Several months ago I had severe stomach pains that actually did turn out to be a medical emergency. Now even the slightest stomach pain or twinge sets me off. So what is it when a more severe version of your symptoms actually WAS a serious problem once, and even much milder versions of those symptoms set off the alarm?
I am sorry that happened to you. It typically is some kind of real health emergency or witnessing it in someone else that initiates health anxiety. A sensation or worry can trigger our anxiety and this is where our response becomes important.
Tomservo, If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
I am sorry that you had a heart attack. Because many of my clients are referred to me by cardiologists, I have helped people with health anxiety that have had heart attacks and major surgeries and afterwards have horrible anxiety related to their health or heart. This can be treated and turned around. If you have an interest in learning more, here are a few links: Health anxiety assessment www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz OnLine Course: Rapid Recovery from Health Anxiety www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
That sounds exhausting but it is not dangerous. Unfortunately, because you are afraid and concerned about these symptoms, your brain believes you are in danger and keeps the panic alarm going. As soon as you change your beliefs to accepting and allowing the anxiety and believing that you are not in any danger and are unconcerned about whether the anxiety is there or not, the symptoms will die down.
But what if you have a real condition that you struggling with that makes you worried. How do you know if the reassurance and checking is to much or not..? Really struggling with booth the condition and the anxiety because of it..
Hi Josef. That’s a great question. People can have health anxiety with a diagnosed condition or without one. The key here is whether or not the worry and concern is causing suffering. If a person has a real concern, we want them to have medical management but not suffer more my having constant worry, checking and reassurance seeking. I teach how to manage these situations in my course and how to work with medical providers in a way that reduces health anxiety.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thanks for your answer. Then I think that’s what I do, I suffer more because of my health anxiety.. but is it possible to feel better with your course for health anxiety even if you have the underlying chronic physical condition? Or is there acceptance I need to work on instead of my health anxiety?
Acceptance work will certainly help, but I do recommend that you learn about how to stop the health anxiety cycle as well and I teach a process of doing that. Here is a link for more information about my course. There is also a wonderful support group that accompanies the course, but that group is optional. www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety. Feel free to contact me through my website if you have any questions. 😊
Hi John. Thank you for asking and I do see clients online, but have a long waitlist. I receive so many requests for health anxiety that I decided to record what I teach in session and offer it to people in a course along with an optional support group. I am available on the support group daily. If you are interested, you may find out more here: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
Hi Tom. All of my videos on health anxiety include both somatic symptom disorder and illness anxiety disorder. I just posted a video this week on a specific somatic symptom for people with cardiac symptoms.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy muscle tension for me now.but I've had so many thinking.yeaes ago I had blurred vision doctor told me I had damaged my retina a mark in it.inbetween that I went to my optician he said you haven't that mark was on 20 years ago 2 weeks later went back to normal.still got floaters though doesn't bother me.also same happened again 10 years ago couldn't breath told me I had asthma until saw Claire weekes book.
Isn’t that interesting how we develop these somatic symptoms that are reinforced by our thinking and our behaviors. And yet when the anxiety reduces, they seem to resolve themselves. The mind-body connection is so powerful.
Hi Paige I came to know past of my husband by looking images in his old phone . It has been six months I get intrusive thoughts and anxiety on daily basis of his past. Is this pure ocd ?
Hi Tom. There are several changes that take place in the body when you are in fight or flight. For most there is an increase in heart rate as your body pumps more blood to your largest muscles including your heart.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy do not think my heart is pumping high at all but maybe must be to have chronic muscle pain.resting heart around 60.dont understand why this I used to have fast heartrate years ago
You do not have to be in fight or flight to have missed beats, palpitations or arrhythmia. Those are very common (typically harmless) sensations to notice in heart-related heath anxiety.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy they don't bother me nowadays but still have them in bed by feal them.as stated for me it's constant muscle tension I just wondered why I don't have fast heartrate with muscle tension as a indication of fight or flight
Hello Im from sri lanka. My english is not that much good. I had covid and recovered. But i cant feel good as before . During night time panic attack comes regularly.. here is lockdown and hospital facilities are low... My ecg,xray, echocardiogram all are normal. But i have discomfort feeling ( not pain) Panic for everything.. Even sudden sounds make me panic..( i cant talk fluent in english ) please doctor give me solution.. whenever i go for nearby hospital they said everything is ok,normal. But i cant sleep , fear of everything. It changed me bad.... I didnt feel any pain but i feel something cant express on my head and chest.... I had 9 panic attacks during covid .. My cousin passed away because of covid.. So when i had covid i was in full of fear and lost hope in survival. Though i have mild cough and slight fever for only 2 days... Beacuse of panic i feel like short breathness...but during that time i thought im going to die..but i never admited to hospital i recover myself in home...but it has been 2 months since i had covid. The fear following me even now.my head and chest cry for help.( No pain but fear sensation in head and chest).everyday night time is challenging..please help me.please
I am so sorry that you are experiencing this. Your brain and body became very frightened of Covid. This is what has caused the panic symptoms. Now, you will need to begin to give messages to your brain that you are not bothered by anxiety symptoms, you are not alarmed and you are safe. I know this is difficult. Please listen to Part 3 tomorrow. If you would like help, I do have an online course that will help you recover. You can find out more at PaigePradko.com.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you mam.... Words like this help me sometimes... I dfind your page today.i will sure follow your tips.. Thanks for reply.. Can i recover from this. Is this dangerous..or normal
I am finding that many people have experienced this kind of panic aftermath with Covid. It is a normal brain and body response to being frightened. It is resolvable if you accept anxiety symptoms as normal and do not view them as dangerous, and slowly get back to doing the things you used to do before you were frightened.
@@marveldc2452 If you have a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
Hi Anand. There is a difference between learning about ocd and getting reassurance. If you felt like a phrase I said relieved your anxiety and therefore you listened to the phrase over and over again every time you felt anxious….then that could be considered a compulsion. A compulsion is behavior that you do over and over to bring down your anxiety. If you are listening to an educational video like this one, that is not a compulsion and is not feeding your ocd. You are listening to learn. 😊
Paige Madam, very well explained as usual BUT WHAT MAKES THIS VIDEO SPECIAL IS 👌🏻👍🏻 Especially the pictorial depictions, they are very nice 😊✌️ They clear all our doubts & ensure that even the dumbest guy out there understands what exactly you are trying to convey .. This above video of yours caters to all sections of audience irrespective of their IQ .. But this video is incomplete, there is someone who is supposed to be sitting behind you in the background & he is missing (Ha Ha Ha Ha) Sorry for watching this video soo late and writing my comments soo late .. Its raining nonstop in South India YES NONSTOP from the last 16-18 Days owing to cyclone effects from the Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal (Yes getting pounded from 2 sides we are .. SOB SOB SOB SOB)
Hi Arjun. I am so sorry to hear about all of that rain you are getting. Is it common to rain that many days this time of year. I sure hopes it stops raining soon. Where I live we are expecting snow flurries today. Yes, I think about you when I make a video and try to negotiate with Ollie about participating. Some times his demands for treats is too unreasonable and I am left to make the video alone. Lol! I am glad you like the graphics. This was the second version of this video because my video editor and I were really trying to get it right. Thank you for appreciating that effort. 🙏😊
It's difficult for me to find the balance between ignoring symptoms and going to see doctors. Often they do find something that needs to be treated, but sometimes they can't tell me for sure why I'm in pain😣
Yes…this is a common problem. You will have to examine your patterns and perhaps set up a medical management plan with your physicians if you believe that anxiety causes you to make unnecessary appointments. I am glad that you are learning about health anxiety.
You describe my anxiety perfectly. No amount of tests help long-term 🙂, next symptom brings it back with a vengeance.
It sounds like you see the cycle in your symptoms.
When I view your videos, I feel as though you are my own therapist. These videos are so helpful.
Wow, thank you. I’m glad you feel that way. ❤️
thank you so much… im still freaking out but thank you.
Health anxiety can be a vicious cycle. Here are some resources for you: www.paigepradko.com/resources
Something that I don’t see talked about much is how Health anxiety affects relationships. Being in this constant health anxiety cycle looks so scary, and so irrational. I don’t know how to balance being terrified in the moment, without over-burdening my partner (expecting him to be my therapist or know how to make me feel better) or making them worry or think that I’m being silly. People don’t know what to do and we both end up accidentally harming each other in the process. Feeling terrified of imminent death is just so much more bitter when you’re afraid to talk about it, in case you’ll say something in a desperate cry for help, that you may regret later. You feel like you’re not only dying, but that you’re dying completely alone.
Yes, thank you for sharing this. You are not alone with this experience. Health anxiety greatly affects relationships. I have a lesson on how to negotiate this and how to talk about this with your loved ones in my health anxiety treatment course. If you have an interest in getting further help for health anxiety, go to PaigePradko.com. I have a discount code for UA-cam subscribers YTTENOFF.
Paige, you're literally an angel on earth. You bring me so much comfort to know that you understand exactly the hell I live in everyday. I've become agoraphobic because my symptoms are so intense. Even the thought of going out to the park with my kiddos dibilitates me. This is a horrible way to live.
I am so sorry that you are experiencing health anxiety and agoraphobia. I specialize in both of those conditions. If you should ever need more support, I have a course and support group helping people recover from health anxiety. I also include how to do exposures that will help your agoraphobia. Here is the link should you be interested: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.
hello :) i stumbled across your channel back in late 2019 after i had my first panic attack, which was the beginning of a really bad anxiety / agoraphobia episode ... your videos have helped me so much during the time i was waiting for my therapy spot, i gained enough courage to go see a therapist, because i learned to accept my anxiety and not let it run my life ... it was really really difficult and it took a lot of time and therapy, but after 2 years now i have gained a lot of confidence and happiness back and my life quality has been great! i just wanted to thank you for your videos, they really did help me to not be hopeless in very dark times! wish you all the best!
Thank you for sharing that, Vanessa. That is exactly why I make videos. I am so happy to hear of your progress.❤️
I have recovered from agoraphobia. I had it for about 4 years. I have videos on my channel explaining how I did it. You can recover too.
Thanks for making such a great videos for people suffering from health anxiety 🙏 😊
You’re welcome, Faiza. Thank you for being so supportive 🙏❤️
Pinpointing the type of anxiety I have has been so eye-opening and your channel helped so much with that! Would you be able to make a video for people who have health anxiety but have actual real health issues & illnesses? The constant worry is exhausting 🙏🏼
Yes, that’s a great suggestion. I do cover treating health anxiety with a real health issue in detail in my course on health anxiety. But, I will add your suggestion for a video to my list. You may want to sign up for my weekly newsletter here: www.paigepradko.com for more information on health anxiety.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you!
Bookmarks:
3:15 you can't stop triggers, such as noticing bodily sensations
3:33 at first, it's difficult to stop the rush of adrenaline in our body as it overreacts. We can, however, notice and accept the adrenaline, recognise the body is overreacting, respond with "oh well", wait for it to die down
4:27 we CAN stop rumination and catastrophizing: when we recognise we're doing it, allow the worry to be there and redirect your attention
5:12 when our hyper vigilance increases, we can accept the anxiety and observe it in a non reactive way, allow it - anxiety is not dangerous, neither are bodily sensations
6:24 we CAN stop behaviours that prevent or calm anxiety (googling, avoiding places, reassurance seeking) - safety behaviours perpetuate anxiety. Don't respond to the health anxiety, even if the brain makes you feel as if a response is needed
7:59 "what if something IS wrong?" - health anxiety is an over exaggerated response in the absence of any actual medical diagnosis
Thank you 🙏
You are saving life's with these knowledge Dr. Paige highly appreciated and may you also have a successful and happy life ❤
This cycle is so well known to me. Your videos are hope for me.
I am so glad. Thanks for watching, Carol. 🙏❤️
oh I know this cycle all to well 😔 but yes ... this method helped me dealing with my health anxiety along with acceptance, accepting that health anxiety won't probably ever go away completely and that that is completely fine, as now, I know how to deal with it without major disruptions to my quality of life
but yes all in all, for me at least, breaking the cycle and not resorting to protective behaviour / actions is what helped the MOST... I think it was your video from the past with some graphic showcase how anxiety rises next time if I respond to it, is what helped me the most ❤️
I am so happy to read this. You will especially like the video I am posting tomorrow. You could have made the video yourself. 😊
Hi Paige, carrying that water bottle, not just me then. I’ve got into the habit of wanting a bottle of water in the car to feel safe and a “just in case”. After watching part 2 today, tomorrow no more bottle of water!!!! I’ve also reduced the frequency I wear my smart watch to stop me constantly checking stress level, heart rate etc. Thank you for your videos and taking the time to help others including myself x
Thanks for watching and commenting, Martin. Glad to help. 😊
I’ve had anxiety problems for 15 years now, and this is the first time I’ve heard anyone mention “the water bottle”. I thought I was the only one that did this. I used to get panic attacks in restaurants and movie theaters, and that silly water bottle would help me for some reason. I don’t really do that anymore, but I will do it at home. I didn’t think it was feeding the anxiety, I had thought that it was keeping me grounded, and in the moment. But, perhaps, I was mistaken.
Geez, I didn't realize that me bringing the water bottle along all the time was actually a thing. I have been bringing it into the bathroom to shower, in case I get the overheated feeling thing. This is horrible
@@N1976DL Yep, I have the water bottle problem.
@@ThisIsTheRealMe2 can’t even go to bed without one!
I’ve done everything and more of what you describe. You are spot on.
😢
I need major help. My whole life or most of it, I’m 40 now, I’ve suffered since I was 20, I feel like I’ve wasted my life to this horrible illness. I spend countless hours googling symptoms, diagnosing myself, over and over again. I’ve had “so many diseases and illnesses”. Right now I’m convinced I have ALS or MS. Thank you for your content
Hi Kelley. I am sorry that you have been suffering with health anxiety for so long. If you would like help, I have an online course that I created specifically for health anxiety. I have a private support group that accompanies the course and I am available on that support group daily. It makes a world of difference when you know exactly what to do. You can find out more here: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety.
Tianna, If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Self Quiz
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz
👉👉👉 Free PDF: Why Do I Feel That in my Body? Explanations of Bodily Symptoms Due to Anxiety, Stress and Panic
www.paigepradko.com/bodyanxiety
👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Course
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
Coupon Code for 10% Savings on Course for my UA-cam Subscribers
YTTENOFF
So glad you are back!
Thank you. Glad to be back!
Happy to see u are posting videos again :)
Thank you, Jess. Great to see you here…you are my favorite on Instagram. You have so much talent….love listening to you play.❤️
Hello Paige , I'm finding your advice to be helpful but I dont it's my phone I wonder if your recording level is high enough? As I have to turn up my phone to hear you? Then other recordings are too loud. Thanks for your work and for reading this.
Hi Cheryl. Yes, I did have some audio issues when I made those videos. I appreciate your kind feedback. I have all of those issues corrected now. But, I was still learning how to operate my camera and recording devices when I originally recorded that video. I wish I had a audio/video tech living with me, lol. My husband is pretty good at yard work but runs from me when I need technical assistance. 🤣😩
Very nice video. If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
Thank you for sharing 🙏
I like most of your video's doc.. it's like your my good whisperer consciousness, when I'm having this anxiety disorder. I can't wait for the part3 of health anxiety..
Thanks Rommel. I posted Part 3 today. Hope you like it.
I've finally recovered from my agoraphobia!
I am so proud of you. I think you may have been one of my first subscribers as I remember your struggles with driving exposures. That’s wonderful news and it must feel so good after all of your work. Congratulations! What would you say helped you the most?
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you so much Paige. Yes, I was here watching your videos for a long time.
I would say, constantly doing exposure as much as I could, followed by adding the medication hydroxyzine. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, much stronger than Benadryl. It blocks H1 receptors and for me it blocks anxiety. It also makes you drowsy, but only when I take it at night. I can take it during the day for exposure. It's non addictive and non habit forming unlike benzos. I do want to add that I do not have to take hydroxyzine every day. I took it a lot at first but not much anymore for anxiety. And my recent 4-Hour trip I did not need to take it at all and I'm really proud of that!
I made a big push to leave the house in 2020 ironically, but after a while I was home again and couldn't leave. In 2021 the breakthrough took place. I made it out to do swimming in the summer one of my favorite activities and then was stuck home again for a month, but very soon after was out again and now I've been out ever since. I really wanted to impress people and surprise people so I showed up to things like my nieces gymnastics practice to impress my sister. I started showing up at family holidays and getting some questions about how I was able to do it and I enjoyed that. Recently my biggest accomplishment, a four hour drive south for a memorial service. I've got some videos on my channel about this. I'm so proud of myself for that and I do think I impressed my brother with that drive because he was telling me he thought I'd chicken out. I may not have completely recovered in a textbook term because I still avoid bridges as much as I can and I haven't been on the highway at all. But I'm going to be working on those as well. In a practical sense I'm recovered and I like to use that word because I can travel enough to do the shopping and pick up all the tasks I have been leaving to my husband for years. The future can only get better and better and thanks Paige for all the help you've given me along the way! I know there was a shift in my mindset about it when you started giving me advice.
Thank you for sharing. I am thrilled for you. Keep up the good work and continue to challenge yourself. “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.” - W. Churchill
Any advice besides exposure?
Everyone with hypochondria needs to see this
I agree. Thank you for your comment 🙏❤️
Ive been terrified for the last month that i have pancreatic cancer even tho its extremely rare and several very clear ct scans have shown no sign at all. The only thing they did say was my anxiety snd stress levels were really high and i just want to feel normal again this isnt me man
I am so sorry that you are experiencing health anxiety, but glad that you watched the video. Here is a playlist that may help you. If you need more help, visit PaigePradko.com
Hi, what recommendation do you have if Health Anxiety is not always triggered by a bodily sensation, but a thought or remunition like "my Mom had X and I might be getting X " (insert dreaded disease)🙂
Yes, it can be sparked by a thought. The treatment is the same. Allow the anxiety…be non reactive…no safety behaviors, no reassurance seeking and no avoidance. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you!
I’m fine until I feel like I get phlegm in my throat. Then it feels like a constant clearing of throat. Then breathing and anxiety goes crazy. Now it feels so real. Sensations are driving my crazy.
Yes, I can relate. Of course I do not know your symptoms but you may be experiencing somatic awareness ocd. It typically involves paying conscious attention to swallowing or breathing and sometimes heart beat or even blinking. I experience this will breathing. But, if your is more…I am worried that I’m sick…then it could fall into the health anxiety category.
Is meditation and breathing exercise considered one of the things we do to be safe from anxiety. Or is that still ok?
Those are wonderful activities to do as part of your daily healthy lifestyle, but you do not want to do them in response to your anxiety. We do not want to give our brains the message that anxiety is bad or that we are trying to get rid of it, or our brains can become more anxious.
Thanks for making these! I'm not sure what category I fall into. Several months ago I had severe stomach pains that actually did turn out to be a medical emergency. Now even the slightest stomach pain or twinge sets me off. So what is it when a more severe version of your symptoms actually WAS a serious problem once, and even much milder versions of those symptoms set off the alarm?
I am sorry that happened to you. It typically is some kind of real health emergency or witnessing it in someone else that initiates health anxiety. A sensation or worry can trigger our anxiety and this is where our response becomes important.
Tomservo, If anyone has a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
Ever since the heart attack, I freak about every symptom, despite the doctor says I am good. It has been bad lately.
I am sorry that you had a heart attack. Because many of my clients are referred to me by cardiologists, I have helped people with health anxiety that have had heart attacks and major surgeries and afterwards have horrible anxiety related to their health or heart. This can be treated and turned around. If you have an interest in learning more, here are a few links:
Health anxiety assessment
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz
OnLine Course: Rapid Recovery from Health Anxiety
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
@@PaigePradkoTherapy awesome. I tried to find help here but did get someone who understood this. I so appreciate it.
@@wednesdayschild3627 , that’s great. 😊
I have been in fight or flight for 2 weeks straight. That can't be safe. Am I about to lose it or die from this??? I can't stop the response!!
That sounds exhausting but it is not dangerous. Unfortunately, because you are afraid and concerned about these symptoms, your brain believes you are in danger and keeps the panic alarm going. As soon as you change your beliefs to accepting and allowing the anxiety and believing that you are not in any danger and are unconcerned about whether the anxiety is there or not, the symptoms will die down.
But what if you have a real condition that you struggling with that makes you worried. How do you know if the reassurance and checking is to much or not..? Really struggling with booth the condition and the anxiety because of it..
Hi Josef. That’s a great question. People can have health anxiety with a diagnosed condition or without one. The key here is whether or not the worry and concern is causing suffering. If a person has a real concern, we want them to have medical management but not suffer more my having constant worry, checking and reassurance seeking. I teach how to manage these situations in my course and how to work with medical providers in a way that reduces health anxiety.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thanks for your answer. Then I think that’s what I do, I suffer more because of my health anxiety..
but is it possible to feel better with your course for health anxiety even if you have the underlying chronic physical condition? Or is there acceptance I need to work on instead of my health anxiety?
Acceptance work will certainly help, but I do recommend that you learn about how to stop the health anxiety cycle as well and I teach a process of doing that. Here is a link for more information about my course. There is also a wonderful support group that accompanies the course, but that group is optional. www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety. Feel free to contact me through my website if you have any questions. 😊
Do you see clients online?
Hi John. Thank you for asking and I do see clients online, but have a long waitlist. I receive so many requests for health anxiety that I decided to record what I teach in session and offer it to people in a course along with an optional support group. I am available on the support group daily. If you are interested, you may find out more here: www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
Have you got one on somatic symptom disorder
Hi Tom. All of my videos on health anxiety include both somatic symptom disorder and illness anxiety disorder. I just posted a video this week on a specific somatic symptom for people with cardiac symptoms.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy muscle tension for me now.but I've had so many thinking.yeaes ago I had blurred vision doctor told me I had damaged my retina a mark in it.inbetween that I went to my optician he said you haven't that mark was on 20 years ago 2 weeks later went back to normal.still got floaters though doesn't bother me.also same happened again 10 years ago couldn't breath told me I had asthma until saw Claire weekes book.
Isn’t that interesting how we develop these somatic symptoms that are reinforced by our thinking and our behaviors. And yet when the anxiety reduces, they seem to resolve themselves. The mind-body connection is so powerful.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I've had ringing in my ears since 3 only hear it when quiet.alot changed over time
If you do one in muscle tension be great
Hi Paige
I came to know past of my husband by looking images in his old phone . It has been six months I get intrusive thoughts and anxiety on daily basis of his past. Is this pure ocd ?
You may send me a message on PaigePradko.com so that you may have more privacy.
I have added my comment on your website.
Do you have to have raised heart rate to be in fight or flight as I don't but do have missed beats in bed
Hi Tom. There are several changes that take place in the body when you are in fight or flight. For most there is an increase in heart rate as your body pumps more blood to your largest muscles including your heart.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy do not think my heart is pumping high at all but maybe must be to have chronic muscle pain.resting heart around 60.dont understand why this I used to have fast heartrate years ago
You do not have to be in fight or flight to have missed beats, palpitations or arrhythmia. Those are very common (typically harmless) sensations to notice in heart-related heath anxiety.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy they don't bother me nowadays but still have them in bed by feal them.as stated for me it's constant muscle tension I just wondered why I don't have fast heartrate with muscle tension as a indication of fight or flight
Hello
Im from sri lanka.
My english is not that much good.
I had covid and recovered.
But i cant feel good as before .
During night time panic attack comes regularly.. here is lockdown and hospital facilities are low...
My ecg,xray, echocardiogram all are normal. But i have discomfort feeling ( not pain)
Panic for everything..
Even sudden sounds make me panic..( i cant talk fluent in english ) please doctor give me solution.. whenever i go for nearby hospital they said everything is ok,normal.
But i cant sleep , fear of everything. It changed me bad....
I didnt feel any pain but i feel something cant express on my head and chest....
I had 9 panic attacks during covid ..
My cousin passed away because of covid..
So when i had covid i was in full of fear and lost hope in survival. Though i have mild cough and slight fever for only 2 days... Beacuse of panic i feel like short breathness...but during that time i thought im going to die..but i never admited to hospital i recover myself in home...but it has been 2 months since i had covid.
The fear following me even now.my head and chest cry for help.( No pain but fear sensation in head and chest).everyday night time is challenging..please help me.please
I am so sorry that you are experiencing this. Your brain and body became very frightened of Covid. This is what has caused the panic symptoms. Now, you will need to begin to give messages to your brain that you are not bothered by anxiety symptoms, you are not alarmed and you are safe. I know this is difficult. Please listen to Part 3 tomorrow. If you would like help, I do have an online course that will help you recover. You can find out more at PaigePradko.com.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you mam....
Words like this help me sometimes...
I dfind your page today.i will sure follow your tips..
Thanks for reply..
Can i recover from this.
Is this dangerous..or normal
I am finding that many people have experienced this kind of panic aftermath with Covid. It is a normal brain and body response to being frightened. It is resolvable if you accept anxiety symptoms as normal and do not view them as dangerous, and slowly get back to doing the things you used to do before you were frightened.
@@marveldc2452 If you have a problem of stress or overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, Reduce watching negative social media and news channels and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down on the bed--eyes closed--No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. With practice the mind will relax. Keep a reminder to observe your breath sensations throughout the day and night anywhere -anytime-- before sleep, at work, taking a walk, at home, when travelling etc with eyes open or closed. Like me make breath observing a lifetime habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.
😊
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Madam, is watching your videos also come under feeding our OCD? Kindly clarify, as your guidance is really very helpful in alleviating my worries.
Hi Anand. There is a difference between learning about ocd and getting reassurance. If you felt like a phrase I said relieved your anxiety and therefore you listened to the phrase over and over again every time you felt anxious….then that could be considered a compulsion. A compulsion is behavior that you do over and over to bring down your anxiety. If you are listening to an educational video like this one, that is not a compulsion and is not feeding your ocd. You are listening to learn. 😊
Paige Madam, very well explained as usual BUT WHAT MAKES THIS VIDEO SPECIAL IS 👌🏻👍🏻 Especially the pictorial depictions, they are very nice 😊✌️ They clear all our doubts & ensure that even the dumbest guy out there understands what exactly you are trying to convey .. This above video of yours caters to all sections of audience irrespective of their IQ .. But this video is incomplete, there is someone who is supposed to be sitting behind you in the background & he is missing (Ha Ha Ha Ha)
Sorry for watching this video soo late and writing my comments soo late .. Its raining nonstop in South India YES NONSTOP from the last 16-18 Days owing to cyclone effects from the Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal (Yes getting pounded from 2 sides we are .. SOB SOB SOB SOB)
Hi Arjun. I am so sorry to hear about all of that rain you are getting. Is it common to rain that many days this time of year. I sure hopes it stops raining soon. Where I live we are expecting snow flurries today. Yes, I think about you when I make a video and try to negotiate with Ollie about participating. Some times his demands for treats is too unreasonable and I am left to make the video alone. Lol! I am glad you like the graphics. This was the second version of this video because my video editor and I were really trying to get it right. Thank you for appreciating that effort. 🙏😊
It's difficult for me to find the balance between ignoring symptoms and going to see doctors. Often they do find something that needs to be treated, but sometimes they can't tell me for sure why I'm in pain😣
Yes…this is a common problem. You will have to examine your patterns and perhaps set up a medical management plan with your physicians if you believe that anxiety causes you to make unnecessary appointments. I am glad that you are learning about health anxiety.
❤️❤️❤️💐❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💐💐💐💐💐
Thank you, Dana.
❤️❤️❤️❤️💐💐💐💐💐❤️❤️❤️🙏
Thank you, Dana.