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I always think I'm dying!

So, I get a pain in my lungs - I've got lung cancer. I get a pain in my chest, or I can't feel my heart beat - I'm going into cardiac arrest/having a heart attack. This fear that I'm terminally ill/dying is ruining my life. I'm a 16 year old female & I know, I've got a lot of years left to live - I hope.. It's just, I'm constantly having thoughts that something isn't right. I know deep down it's just paranoia but I can't stop these thoughts, is this anxiety or something? Please help:(

Molly x
Best Answer
13588791 tn?1430633462
   Hello, Ms. Molly. I was diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder in 2009. Since you've been told about the cancer-especially at your age-a certain amount of fear & worry is hard-wired into your human brain. But, when it goes to the extreme of worrying about worrying, now That's! anxiety.
   I have HepatitisC. I was diagnosed in 1980, wasn't treated 15 years ago by the Dr. who did a liver biopsy, so now I wait for a medical treatment to be approved for my genotype, 3. With cirrhosis. I understand the uncertainty you feel.
   But this is a fact. Our bodies use energy for every minute function, especially healing itself. Since brain function uses energy, obsessive worry robs us of vital energy that could be put to more positive use. Anxiety tends to feed on itself, you know, the old 'snowball' effect.
   From strictly my own experience, talk to your Oncologist. Ask about a psychiatrist. And no, you're not crazy...the difference between psychologist & psychiatrist is the medical degree. The 'shrinks' are medical professionals who specialize in head health. Ever heard of "Healthy mind, healthy body". So true.
   And absolutely DON'T be afraid to say: "Hey, look y'all, this ***** & I want some help here!!!" The shrink will talk with you...no weird sci-fi stuff. There are many things that can help you...meds, relaxation techniques you can do yourself, yoga, exercise, group support, etc., and a good shrink can help with all that, and more.
   If you've got good family & friends, talk. Cry. Scream. Laugh. Love. Let the worry and fear out. It helps, I promise.
   Most importantly, never, ever underestimate the power of prayer. No matter what you call the Higher Power, pray. And I will pray for you.
   THIS is therapy for me. I look forward to hearing from you.  
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Avatar universal
I think Jakeys1mom might have misinterpreted your explanation and thinks you have lung cancer.
I am the exact same way as you. In fact, right now I'm having these thoughts because of something that I've been feeling over the past few days. What I find helps me is talking to family and friends that you are absolutely comfortable with. A lot of times people will say "that happens to me too!" or "stop worrying, everything is fine". I find that these reactions help me to feel better. Also, try doing something to take your mind off it. Watch a funny movie, or read a book. Lastly, there is nothing wrong with sharing these thoughts with your doctor. Tell him/her what you're feeling. It's most reassuring to hear from a doctor that you are worrying over nothing.
I would say that it'll get better, or there's some magic cure for anxiety. Except there's not. Just know that you are not alone, as many many people have some type of anxiety. You are young, you will learn to control it. Message me any time!
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