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Tomophobic: What can help my fear of medical procedures?

Posted by tomophobicgirl @tomophobicgirl, 3 days ago

I am extremely phobic when it comes to medical procedures. When I am told I need a procedure I immediately go down the rabbit hole. It consumes my life. I can't stop thinking about it. My anxiety and panic are off the charts. I have to get a tooth extracted and I am beside myself with fear. Have started to talk to a therapist. Any medical procedure terrifies me. Knowing too much about the procedure gives me more panic. Is there a way to cure this?

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | 2 days ago

@tomophobicgirl, I'm so sorry that you are dealing with this paralyzing fear. If tomophobia is affecting your health and causing you to refuse necessary medical procedures, it’s time to get help.

One proven method of treating phobias is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves changing thought patterns. With CBT, a therapist will work with you to challenge and change faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.

Does your fear stop you from getting a necessary procedure? Have you considered psychotherapy and CBT?

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tomophobicgirl | @tomophobicgirl | 2 days ago

I just reached out to a therapist the other day. I am hoping she can help. Right now I have to get a tooth extracted and I am in that black hole with constant fear and anxiety. The thought of it consumes me every day. I have the constant jitters, not eating much and having trouble sleeping. Sometimes I actually gag/dry heave from the anxiety.
I go to my doctors regularly but with apprehension. I pray and hold my breath that everything is ok and nothing is wrong. So far so good. Im getting older and I am so scared that something will require surgery.
The next time I talk to the therapist, Im going to ask about medication. I am so embarrassed by this. The only person that knows is my son. He is my rock right now and helps me out as best as he can.

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ashleyharris728 | @ashleyharris728 | 1 day ago
In reply to @tomophobicgirl "I just reached out to a therapist the other day. I am hoping she can help...." + (show)
Profile picture for tomophobicgirl @tomophobicgirl

I just reached out to a therapist the other day. I am hoping she can help. Right now I have to get a tooth extracted and I am in that black hole with constant fear and anxiety. The thought of it consumes me every day. I have the constant jitters, not eating much and having trouble sleeping. Sometimes I actually gag/dry heave from the anxiety.
I go to my doctors regularly but with apprehension. I pray and hold my breath that everything is ok and nothing is wrong. So far so good. Im getting older and I am so scared that something will require surgery.
The next time I talk to the therapist, Im going to ask about medication. I am so embarrassed by this. The only person that knows is my son. He is my rock right now and helps me out as best as he can.

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@tomophobicgirl I have been in a similar situation to you and I still struggle to an extent but I have gotten a lot of help. One book that is recommended by my psychologist is “overcoming health anxiety” by Owens and Antony. That might be a good starting point until you get therapy and/or medications going. Good luck and hope you feel better soon.

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tomophobicgirl | @tomophobicgirl | 1 day ago
In reply to @ashleyharris728 "@tomophobicgirl I have been in a similar situation to you and I still struggle to an..." + (show)
Profile picture for ashleyharris728 @ashleyharris728

@tomophobicgirl I have been in a similar situation to you and I still struggle to an extent but I have gotten a lot of help. One book that is recommended by my psychologist is “overcoming health anxiety” by Owens and Antony. That might be a good starting point until you get therapy and/or medications going. Good luck and hope you feel better soon.

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@ashleyharris728 Thank you. I will go get the book.

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