Health Anxiety - Part One: What It Is and How to Overcome It

Do you or a loved one worry that you may have or could acquire a serious medical illness and constantly research disease symptoms on line? Do illnesses like cancer, heart attack, and multiple sclerosis scare you? ADAA board member Ken Goodman, LCSW, explains what health anxiety is and how you can overcome it. This webinar includes a former health anxiety sufferer and offered a Q&A opportunity.
ADAA is proud to offer resources on mental health. Find additional tools and information:
- Visit the ADAA website: adaa.org/
- View upcoming webinars and events: adaa.org/calendar
- The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), a non-profit organization, leads in education, training, and research for anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, OCD, and co-occurring disorders. ADAA also provides free evidence-based mental health information and resources to the public.

[@FigureOnAStick]

According to my amygdala, I've had ulcerative colitis, gastroenteritis, diabetes, kidney stones, HIV, syphilis, cardiac arrest, COVID-19 and, most recently, melanoma. According to reality, I've only ever had health anxiety.

[@jahnellehenry7377]

This is me lol sad

[@michaelanthony386]

🤗

[@SpongeBob_Squarepants0]

I searched my symptoms on google now it said cancer BRO WTF 😭no im scared and here i am

[@cesarruiz7990]

To anyone that is going through a mental health episode, keep telling yourself about the many other diseases we have convinced ourselves that we must certainly have and we came out just fine.

[@kennyaleelindo9647]

Thanks u with 💓

[@leapingjoseph8462]

Great advice. I try to do that- sometimes works for a while.

[@eddy7346]

I remind myself of my Brain Tumor scare from my Junior year in High School and how I should've been dead already

[@bartman4385]

@@kennyaleelindo9647 p

[@Messi-Is-Goat10]

😅 exactly what is happening and just came out good. Its weird because its like i feel it. Too much to be true but at the end it wasnt that mental illness. Its anxiety doing weird things

[@gfdthree1]

I have the unenviable skill of manifesting the precise symptoms I don't want to have.

[@beautifuldecorating]

G G 😂 I know this too

[@omarguerrero2814]

Same here pooping too much its colon cancer, peeing to much its diabetes, headache aneurysm etc... Got a mole in my foot melanoma even felt pain and turned out ot be nothing. Side pain its the liver or the pancreas... this is horrible but I will conquer this shit and you will too!

[@lyudmilagoncharov1576]

@@omarguerrero2814 pl ¹

[@petraveleska6287]

Then you should believe that you're also capable to use your unbelievable skills for manifesting something that you really want, and no otherwise 😊

[@dianedrummond2624]

This is very interesting but health anxiety suxs and it’s so hard to change your thinking and thoughts and to live with this everyday is hell

[@Kagedfireman]

To everyone here. You are NOT alone! There are millions just like you! If you ever need to reach out I’m here and I’m listening!! You are stronger than you know!!!

[@c63sk88]

Damn bro and here I thought i was alone

[@danielfoerste]

Having health anxiety while also having actual health issues has been a huge struggle to find balance between advocating for myself and not letting myself spiral. It's hard to parse out.

[@scuba79steve]

I know how you feel

[@gfdthree1]

You got this. This is your struggle to overcome.

[@MS-ou4gs]

Story of my life..anyone with already existing health issues and suffering as well with health anxiety, your alert and worry are going to be twice as high...its crazy

[@nileniale]

This so much. You're definitely not alone.

[@Alonzo42189]

Same here ugh

[@gigantastore8013]

So unbelievably comforted to know that I am not alone in this!

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Noooooooooo, you are NOT ALONE!!! ❤️ someone told me it is MY CHOICE........to be happy, sad or WORRIED........& Worry makes you FEEL like we are doing something PROACTIVE.....When in fact it does NOTHING but take away our HAPPINESS in the moment, the Now.......THIS TOO SHALL PASS........❤️

[@loveinautumn3978]

No you're absolutely not alone. I deal with this and it sometimes distract me daily chores and going out. What's sad is how some people try and make fun you.

[@melaniewalsh2968]

Me to hunny

[@melaniewalsh2968]

@@rhondapelletier2141 this brought tears to my eyes. This too shall pass is comforting

[@LuchoPortuano11.11]

Nope... not alone!! ☝🏻

[@RhysHart96]

I am constantly worried that I have cancer. I am slim and always check my weight to make sure I dont have any weight loss, everytime i feel weak or tired i think it is a terminal illness but I am also afraid to visit the doctor incase they confirm my fears. I was diagnosed with GAD around 6 months ago but worry my anxiety symptoms are serious Just a quick update everyone 7 months have gone by and I am still here and slowly getting better every day. I have stopped googling things and I have stopped over thinking any body sensations. It's not been easy but I am slowly learning to live with health anxiety. Wishing you all the best and we can fight past it. 1 year has gone by now and still here and still keeping healthy. Mediation has been a really big help for me to fight my thoughts 😊 "Hard times come and they pass and they come to pass" 🙏 Update: Feb 2022 I am so glad I uploaded this post. Having a place for everyone to comment and not feel alone has really meant a lot to me. You are all blessed and loved and no matter how hard things are now they do and will get better ❤

[@beautifulsurprise9424]

Oh my goodness. It’s like I just read something I wrote myself. I am terrified of going to the doctor for this same reason. Which is odd because I am currently experiencing my second bought with anxiety and during my first bought several years ago I feel like I was going to the doctor several times a month because I didn’t believe that nothing was wrong with me and I wanted them to double/triple check but this time I stay far away. I think the differences now are I’m several years older plus my mother died from cancer 5 years ago so my mind knows that there really is a possibility I could one day have it.

[@RhysHart96]

It really is so frustrating isnt it. I will go a few weeks without having the thoughts of being seriously ill then a few weeks later it's all back again and I start to worry again :(

[@gfdthree1]

I know my friend, it sucks. Get help. There are a lot of smart people who want to help

[@beautifulsurprise9424]

coolripe Yep. That’s pretty much the same thing that happens to me as well. It’s funny (not funny haha, but funny ironically) though because I am sane otherwise. I have a good job and make decent money. I am a responsible adult that takes care of my family but every time this happens to me I feel and act like a person who is having a mental breakdown of some sort. This is really the second time in my life that I have experienced this. The first time was in the months after I had my daughter so I assumed then that it had something to do with post-partum depression. I am not really sure what the trigger is now. It’s gotten a lot better since the first comment I made here a few weeks ago so here’s to it staying that way. I hope it gets better for you too.

[@rothschildianum]

coolripe Your anxiety can an demonic oppression. Pray and ask protection from your guardian angel. I had the same problem. You need to improve your spiritual life.

[@ReallyKarel]

This video made me cry so much because IT’S ME. I ‘m calling this doctor. I can’t live this way any more

[@twinklekingdom9902]

Yes

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Hope you find relief......You are NOT ALONE..........Remember, It WILL PASS......... comes in cycles, but you will be able to manage once you have the tools .....It sucks! ........

[@Amityphysics]

Hey dear bro , can health anxiety be cinerted into ocd?

[@jennycartwright5578]

Me either it is no way to live

[@labeenausmani9696]

Feeling the same...you are not alone...i hate it when people say you are alright why do you worry So much you are a scientific rational person..i can't able to explain them that i have real issues... nobody can understand except a psychologist

[@niko31]

My heart has been hurting a lot lately, but I know that I'm okay. Instead of giving into it and freaking out, I've decided to start doing jumpjacks instead to prove to myself that my heart is just fine!! It's very helpful

[@hueso5071]

Same. I've had odd sensations around my heart, thinking i was having a attack. Ive started going to the gym and running. My heart feels just fine.

[@lauraschlottertorres1990]

That is great keep going. I have bad days when that happens I get into the word of God and remind myself how far God has brought me and the knowledge that God wakes me up everyday

[@jaythefruit]

this is how im feeling right now. i had a halter monitor two years ago and it came back perfectly normal. just recently i started feeling it all over again after two years of feeling good and not having heart anxiety. went to the doctor and she checked my heart and said it sounded fine, its so hard not to worry because the sensations i feel due to my anxiety feel horrifying at times but in reality there is nothing wrong. its also easy to forget that the heart is so resilient and puts up with all kinds of stress everyday, and if you're an active person especially your heart beats fast due to that and nothing happens. so having some anxiety and having a fast heartbeat/chest pain due to that is also something your heart can handle!

[@JenniferPost]

Best advice to stop scanning my body? That is my biggest issue...it's the first thing I think of when I wake up. Even when I have a good day, it's like my brain says wait, you have anxiety remember?....it's so discouraging.

[@delta340]

sameeeeee😭everytime I wake up I always feel nervous then my heart will start beating so fast😭

[@maryawino5322]

Same here 😭😭I always scan my body and sometimes I see things that are not there, like sometimes I see that my face on one side is swollen and it Gives me dizziness cz of the many names of sickness that I diognise myself with

[@ruchirrawat8804]

i hate it when i find random normal changes in my body or feel a lump anywhere and diagnose myself with anything and get scared

[@mileskramer2404]

I always feel my lymph nodes and it freaks me out

[@terimurphy4009]

I'm exactly the same. Feel like I'm in a constant cycle of hell

[@duskicakruskica]

me too! I'm struggling with health anxiety after a couple of health scares, so it's really hard to relax.

[@JenniferPost]

@@duskicakruskica That's exactly how mine started...now I'm stuck in this loop.

[@azizjalal8149]

wait do you guys get moles ??? when you have health anxiety

[@Keirnoth]

Everyone should have this bookmarked and have this playing passively on loop over and over again - it'll help you keep it in the back of your mind so you can use it as a "shield" when the monster of health anxiety rears its head.

[@drheadbanger]

As soon as I get chest aches everything goes down the drain from there. Even when my day has been going great I zoom into my chest and what if’s is heart attack etc will occur suddenly. 😪

[@mikro9280]

Horde_04 I have exactly that feeling now . 🤣

[@shenikastgermain8011]

Horde_04 ME TOO😢

[@tiyanskievlogzzz3644]

Same here

[@danielwilliamevans5516]

Exactly what has been the issue with me for 3 years now !

[@emmalyeetru2661]

I’m broken too 😞

[@bwilliams6583]

For someone who has suffered from health anxiety for yearsssss. This is invaluable information. Thank you! ❤️

[@redlantern6226]

@@gagepryor5250 o

[@rachelewake]

@@redlantern6226 LLZLZ

[@leapingjoseph8462]

Bryana, so have I and it's a horrible and painful way to live. It's been 3 years for me.

[@evelynbecker4916]

Psychedelics are just an amazing discovery, it's quite fascinating how effective they're for depression and stress disorders. Saved my life

[@stephaniemorgan6284]

Psychedelics definitely have potential to deal with health issues like anxiety and depression,I would like to try them but it's hard to source them here

[@sebastianfelipe515]

My first shroom trip was really awesome, it felt like I was deep into the sea

[@joachimlunares4871]

/doctor_mckenzie/ Got psych's*

[@fluffypineapples8852]

Shroom microdosing help me overcome my life long addiction to cigarettes and alcohol

[@sebastianfelipe515]

@@joachimlunares4871 Is he on on Instagram or what?

[@Daniel-bb7rv]

This video has just made me feel 10 times better

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Hope X 10

[@Amityphysics]

Yes me also my confusion has gone after 12 years

[@ZenitsuKunn]

@@Amityphysics omg

[@manjurrajbasnet5785]

Corona has my hypochondria reach the summits now. I cannot take it anymore. With the ongoing lockdown, I have nothing to do except for googling and the health anxiety over the years have sky-rocketed. This video is so so so perfect demonstration of my life. I wanna cry, take my life without pain but then I do not want to give into something that's not even tangible. I will get through all this one day. I WILL!!!!!!!

[@00aga00]

I can relate with this 100%. It made me realize I really need help/therapy. I cannot function like this to the point that sometimes I wish I was sick so I don’t suffer from anxiety anymore. It’s horrible to write letters to my daughter in my head in case I die before she grows up. I feel so alone in this

[@leapingjoseph8462]

Sorry you are feeling this way. I can relate to everything you said. I also feel alone in the world. It's so hard sometimes.

[@joannaarmin1746]

I understand 100% your pain my dear. I also write letters to my kids that are now so young. We have to come out of this evil hole. Feel free to contact me, sometimes talking helps. We may not know each other, but as a mom I can feel what you feel. I am so sorry.

[@avamiller2325]

WE WILL GET THRU IT ALL!

[@sandytaylor8482]

It's really lonely!! I rarely hear of this, and it's crippling!

[@ijeomaremy2195]

@@joannaarmin1746 ... called my kids severely to advice them thinking I was going to die

[@totalbodyfitness6103]

My health anxiety started when a physician read my EKG improperly and told me I had an electrical problem with my heart and that it could stop at any moment. Prior to that FALSE diagnoses I practically lived in the gym training very hard and was built like superman. Lol. That was 20 years ago now and I still can't shake that FALSE diagnoses even though I have been to the ER countless times over the years consulting with several cardiologists doing every test in the book when it comes to testing heart function - everything is perfect. I have been in the health industry myself for the last 28 years as a personal trainer and have studied exercise physiology and functional medicine the last 7 years so I could learn a lot more about the human body. I know how to interpret ultrasounds (Sonography), EKG's, echocardiograms, and have studied hematology to the point I believe I know as much if not more than most physicians when it comes to interpreting blood test results. I can even see things in test results before the body shows symptoms. So, after diagnosing myself I have concluded I am healthy as a 20 year old healthy male and I am 56 years of age. So, why is it I still have in the back of my head what that MD told me about my heart 20 years ago now. It was super bad to where I'd check my blood pressure a few times per day and every 30 minutes I'd catch myself checking my pulse rate. UNREAL is all I can say! PLEASE people, don't let ANYONE plant something in your head because it can be very difficult to pull that weed out! I guess it is a form of brainwashing. Maybe I need to study psychiatry next so I can diagnose myself a little more. Lol. In any case I have used what I have learned over the years to help people get and stay well with a primary focus on preventing disease before it even starts. Best of all I consult with people for FREE! While I am not a licensed MD, I have taken thousands of hours of courses over the last 7 years and could pursue a medical degree, but after learning what I have learned, I want NO part of the BIG pharma because they are all about masking symptoms with TOXIC prescription drugs instead of curing the problem - or better yet, preventing the problem. Not to mention it's ALL about the MONEY! So, at least all my health anxiety wasn't bad because it caused me to want to help people which led me to learning more about the human body. Because of my issues I now have more compassion toward anyone with any medical issue because I can understand to a certain degree what people are going through and I don't want to see anyone suffer! Blessings to ALL!

[@livefree6147]

Can you help me ? How can I consult with you ?

[@ArcadiaHeavenOnEarth]

I need your help :(

[@rabh1082]

I need your help:((((( do u have reddit?

[@bhaybiejeff]

Do you give free consultation?

[@tomspurling4358]

The brain is an amazing thing. I was an absolute mess for a long time. Literally every illness you could imagine, I’d read about it and sure enough the specific set of symptoms would pop up. I’d then focus on the somatic symptom continuously 24/7. It was so draining. Then my daughter was born and I found new focus. I guess if you care more about something than yourself the focus shifts. Good luck everyone with anxiety. It’s a bastard affliction.

[@sandytaylor8482]

Me too. I worry as much about my loved ones as i do myself.

[@georgeking2369]

I can relate to that i have been doing the same for years i worry about myself and everyone else it's a night mear

[@eugenvataman7726]

39:20 for strategies & how to manage it. I try to revisit this section frequently as a "prophylaxis" Thanks for the webinar. Incredibly, incredibly helpful.

[@JenniferPost]

Thank You!!

[@akairibbon4658]

thank you so much

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Thx!

[@9Der6Ketzer9]

My grandfather passed away from cancer in 2016, he was a father to me and seeing his health deteriorate really messed me up... I thought I got over it but apparently I didn't, thank you so much for this, seriously you have no idea how grateful I am

[@michaelanthony386]

🤗💜

[@alanjm160684]

It was like I had a huge weight lifted off my shoulders, and a feeling of happiness came over me while watching this. Thanks, Doctor Goodman. Your words really helped hit home. I'm definitely going to take your approach and practice these tools as much as possible. I WILL OVERCOME HEALTH ANXIETY! ❤

[@Kamdooper]

I cannot explain how much comfort I got in this video, especially when he goes over how our bodies are naturally noisy but with health anxiety, we will notice it more than the average person.

[@michaelanthony386]

Yep, like a car.

[@bigghuncho2x]

I just recently went through something that sparked up my anxiety and ive never felt anything overwhelming as this feeling. it stops me from feeling normal and in a constant state of worry and panic and its been about 2 weeks of first feeling this way! i searched up my symptoms and it made everything even 10x worse with thoughts rushing through my mind. after watching this and learning how to respond to these feelings and thoughts I feel way better. Thank You

[@KimsCS124]

I have the exact same issue

[@Chelleyboo]

Me too. I had covid and I lost my sense of smell. Like it was GONE. It's back now. But because of that i have an extreme fear of losing my senses. Like going blind. I now check my eye sight every 10 min. I've been like this for about a month now. Its bs.

[@CaliHummel]

@@Chelleyboo getting covid literally changed me in the worst ways. I’ve never been so anxious and lost even months later

[@legionoard]

@@CaliHummel me too. Never had serious anxiety. I wasn’t even worried about covid when I had it but I am constantly worried about health issues since l, even though I feel mostly fine.

[@aloominium]

@@Chelleyboo ive been constantly checking my eyesight cause i fear of going blind as well. at least we aint alone in this

[@lisas.1280]

My 16 year old daughter and myself both suffer from HA. I have started therapy and my daughter is starting therapy tomorrow. She’s at a very high level of anxiety for the past two weeks and the current fear is esophagus cancer because of heartburn/gerd symptoms. In the past it has been cramps that turn into ovarian cancer (in her mind), a lymph node on her neck that she thought was cancer and dug at it for a month til it was sore and we had to go to the doctor, leg/arm tingling.. etc. Every single ache or pain signals cancer to her and that’s all she will focus on until the pain disappears. A family member recently tried to reassure her telling her she is not sick and doesn’t have symptoms of weight loss, vomiting, fevers etc. and now she wants to weigh herself to see if she’s losing weight or she will get chills because of panic attacks and think it’s a fever. She said breathing techniques/meditation don’t work for her because once she is in the full panic zone all she thinks about is that she’s terminal. I haven’t watched this video yet but does anyone know if I should have her watch it with me or should I just watch it myself .I’m praying that therapy will help us both because it’s like the blind leading the blind as I can only calm her so much because then my mind starts wandering like hers and I start having the same fears for her. It’s a vicious cycle. I’m so sad to constantly see the panicked look of fear in her eyes and face. The pandemic has made it worse since she can’t see friends and be social so she has been clinging to me even more. I just want us both to get better.

[@aanya2224]

Omygwaaaddd I am suffering from the same thing as u daughter ...it's so shitty ....I can't stop myself from thinking all this nonsense. I just hate it.

[@lisas.1280]

@@aanya2224 yes, it’s awful and I don’t wish it on anyone. I hope you will start to feel better:)

[@aanya2224]

@@lisas.1280 Hope the same for u and ur daughter 🤗

[@kaylajustina1669]

I am the exact same way as your daughter and the same age. I have health anxiety, social anxiety, ptsd, everything. I was prescribed medication for it but I am terrified of it. I’m scared how my body will react to it or if I will have like some severe deadly allergic reaction to it because that is what my grandpa died from. And every time I take half a pill (I have a low dosage) I feel like I am dying and can’t breathe. But I am wondering, did your daughter try medication or some type of therapy that helped her?

[@BrixxFF]

Kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk

[@TheBeardedSandman]

As a kid up to the age of 13, I watched my grandpa slowly pass away from the worst case of heart disease of anyone I've ever known. He had multiple heart attacks, multiple bypasses, an eventual heart transplant, another heart attack, then ultimately passed away after a horrible car accident and had a heart attack in his sleep at the hospital. I remember the feeling of dread as my mom explained to me at the age of 7 that my grandpa's blood vessels were clogged up because he ate too much butter. I remember the pit in my stomach as she explained how a pacemaker SHOCKED the heart into working again if it stopped. I remember sitting on my grandpa's lap as he opened up his shirt to show me his heart transplant scars... this was back in 1994 when pacemakers were a box of batteries and you could literally feel it under his skin. I remember seeing the raw flesh in graphic detail and was instantly traumatized. Since his death, I've been completely terrified of heart attacks and heart disease. I've dedicated my life to preventing them in my own body and learning all the mechanisms of heart issues so I don't develop it, but I live in constant fear that nothing I do will ever be enough because there are no guarantees. It's sometimes a living hell... I get ectopic heartbeats, I've worn halter monitors, I've been checked multiple times, and x-ray, multiple EKG's, a stress test, and the doctors can't find anything wrong with my heart. But I live everyday with the constant fear that they missed something... that each day I'm one day closer to having a heart attack. It's awful. I cooked a whole chicken last night and could barely look at the heart because I was scared of it... It's a constant battle.

[@DL-rl9bd]

A great KZbin channel is York Cardiology by Dr. Sanjay Gupta. He addresses a lot of these anxiety issues related to the heart, especially ectopic beats, heart palpitations, and many others. I’m here watching this video for similar reasons as you. I’m 45, and have had chest pains and those ectopic beats for a month. I also wake up in the middle of the night with my heart racing and short of breath. My father and all four of his brothers had some form of heart disease or problems. So, naturally, I am concerned. Of course, I already have terrible anxiety, including health anxiety, to begin with.

[@juliaburkhard56706]

I know exactly what you're going through because that is my exact fear! I get pains from my anxiety like all in my left arm and my chest which constantly scares me for having a heart attack, it's the worst feeling ever. Just thought I would comment to remind you that you aren't alone and as much as I can say you're fine I know you won't think you are because I think the same way. I hope we can both get through this (':

[@hafsahawan169]

This is HELPFUL! I recommend this to everyone who is suffering from health anxiety. Watch from the start till the end. I got tears in my eyes as the doctor was exactly explaining what I go through; the symptoms, thoughts everything. It felt so relieving that someone actually understands what goes in my mind.

[@salmaabdalla2214]

how are you now?

[@katieroberts5141]

Same! It's as though he was explaining me!

[@jennaparker8296]

This was so helpful. I’m grateful for doctors who take the time to post these because I don’t have insurance and health care is not very accessible during these times

[@justinidle5721]

Thanks for this video. It's amazing how straightforward and sensible overcoming Health Anxiety is on paper but how much harder it actually is to put it into practice. Rewiring the brain is like exercising a weak muscle! Thanks!

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Agree!!!!!

[@Amityphysics]

Hey bro can we do it by ourselves and during this should we avoid medicines

[@czhaok]

Panic and anxiety is rarely logical which is the issue :(

[@charlesnelson838]

I asked my doctor that same question a few days ago.

[@AndrewHedlund100]

No amount of anxiety is going to stop what’s going to happen if you get cancer you try and beat it if you get heart attack maybe it will heal..One day your health is going to go downhill hopefully not for a long time In the meantime do whatever makes you happy

[@CaliHummel]

So true

[@SK-ur2on]

VERY easily said

[@Dougthespud89]

For me the trigger for the disorder started with my job, working in hospital admin, I read some terrible things. So from then on it would go in cycles, I would focus on different parts of my body with the occasional absence of worry. The event that sealed the deal with me was watching my sister die from cancer. From the moment of her diagnosis I am convinced that the big C is just around the corner.

[@michaelanthony386]

🤗💜

[@gillynanaof4899]

I have listened to this countless times because it makes me feel "normal". Having health anxiety is a very lonely, terrifying and frustrating condition. Unless you personally experience it nobody can understand. Not even therapists fully understand, they can tell you why you do what you do. What not to do but in reality that is a billion times more difficult. I don't disagree with anything in this video but finding the strength to actually face the fear terrifies me. Why? Because this time it's really an illness, the last million times I believed the same, it was not right, but this time it could be. I currently have a pain in my back which I've had myself convinced is due to a tumor. Yet last week when I believed 100% I had oral cancer the back eased. Now my mouth is better, the pain in my back is worse. So it has to be cancer because it's progressing. So the fear goes on and on, and my life goes on hold because i can't function till I know for sure. However I don't want to go to doctor because I'm terrified it's "true". I truly hope to one day find the strength to conquer this. I hope you do too!

[@maryawino5322]

Anxiety can cause someone to ran real mad, you feel like losing your sanity

[@MS-ou4gs]

The stories of my life...

[@vdittycc]

Have you read Dr Sarnos book or look him up on KZbin

[@gillynanaof4899]

@@vdittycc I will check it out thank you.

[@susiesstories2980]

Wow! I completely agree with everything you've said. I am exactly the same. Exactly. I'm currently in the throes of anxiety over recent tests I've had. I'm awaiting the results. Every minute feels like an hour until I can feel reassured again. I'm sleeping as much as I can to get through it. What you said about being distracted from your symptoms really struck a chord with me. If a found a breast lump now (which is one of my many fears) I know my back pain and burping would be forgotten. Anyway, it's at least reassuring that I'm not alone on this crazy path.

[@zeauxster]

I am currently in therapy for health anxiety and have made a lot of progress, but still have days where I'm pretty high on the anxiety scale, like 6 or 7. This is a great resource to reframe my anxiety as a bully, a monster, an opponent. I won't let it win!

[@chrispanico2276]

Did you ever have physical symptoms that made you think of heart attack or stroke?

[@zeauxster]

@@chrispanico2276 Definitely! I used to have physical symptoms all the time, and the fact that I was hyper focused on them made them feel 10 times worse. Once, I had gas pains in my stomach and diaphragm, and I literally convinced myself I was dying (which made those sensations even more unpleasant). I used to worry about a number of really alarming health issues like heart attacks and strokes, sometimes for days and weeks on end. It was exhausting! I have been in therapy for almost two years now and left a really unhealthy workplace environment. After leaving the job I was miserable at, I was totally shocked at how much my symptoms improved, but it makes sense. I'm in a much better place and no longer have physical symptoms, and mentally I feel much better. I have even moved on with my therapist and am working on other issues in my life besides my health therapy. It feels so good it doesn't control my whole life anymore! Progress is possible for everyone. But you have to take the first step and ask for help. Therapy totally changed my life for the better. If you're also on your own health anxiety journey, I wish you the best of luck. And stay off WebMD!! ❤️

[@galactic3027]

@@zeauxster how can I tell my parents that I need therapy, I think I will look like an idiot. But I need it desperately

[@zeauxster]

@@galactic3027 Let your parents know you've been struggling. I would try to be as honest with them about what you are experiencing as possible. If your parents don't respond well, it's not your fault. You can't control their response. If it doesn't work out with your parents, you should try reaching out to an adult at school. A teacher or a counselor you trust. They can help you access the resources you need. I would try to talk to your parents first though. Best of luck on your journey, I'm rooting for you 💜

[@galactic3027]

@@zeauxster thanks, I talked to my mom about it

[@soniasalvadore9986]

This has been my life for 3 years. I feel like you have taken me as an example.. I always worry about a cardiac arrest.. when I hear someone suffer from something I immediately start building the same symptoms.. Thank you so much for this presentation, I think this is my way forward

[@iinside22]

I’m only on minute 16 and can relate to so much of this. Especially, the heartburn and Gerd comments.

[@naturehub782]

How r u now

[@Stevedv5]

Possibly the best video ever in describing this whole process

[@ricardoistudla8641]

Thank you for this video! I have been suffering miserably for two or three years now with this. Some days are better than others. Sending much love to all of you also suffering from this. We can get better and will get better. Just don't give up!! I believe in you and you are not alone!

[@MattAndJustus]

Thank you for uploading this video! One of the best videos on this subject matter I’ve seen!

[@vincentdolido5437]

Before you doubt your health. Doubt your ill feeling. I was reminded that before i doubt God, doubt your fear. Thanks for this talk. I was reminded.

[@ktownsearch2012]

By far...the best explanation found on youTube that describes what I am going through right now. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You guys are the best!

[@quacker1982]

This video is fantastic and so relatable to my health anxiety. I would love a copy of the slides. Thank you so much for recording this. My opponent is not going to win.

[@IceFlex92]

Literally me, all the google links are purple now for pretty much everything because ive been to them all, good lord.

[@thesilentdiva]

I relate

[@m.inthedesert7134]

Thank you for this. I've lived with health anxiety since my teens. This time all it took to set it off was a new skin spot. That's all it took. As soon as I felt less worried about it I started focusing on other skin things... it never ends. Now I'm afraid I have internal cancer, everything feels weird & I've started having nocturnal panic attacks. Every pain means something. Anyway, I needed this video right now!

[@landofsyn2980]

I feel this

[@michaelanthony386]

🤗💜

[@rolandbay-an9772]

Reading the comments make me feel good!

[@chevaliedelareverie]

I am excited for part two!! Thank you for this very helpful information

[@Devdondidit]

Wow! This video is life!! Thank you so much!

[@lune78]

No words could express my gratitude for this webinar. Thank you so much sharing it for free with all of us health anxiety sufferers. Everything that was said here is spot on and incredibly helpful.

[@sandytaylor8482]

Not only do I panic when I have a symptom, but I also panic when anyone I care about tells me about a symptom they have. This is the first time I've seen my disorder identified.

[@bloodstainedramparts6631]

laying in bed trying to sleep , sh*t i feel like i have shortness of breath , this , that...... crying 😢😢😢😭

[@silviab13]

Thank you for uploading these webinars!

[@robertchan8442]

This is the best video ever. Thank you and god bless you

[@brookegrundy7576]

This is the best health anxiety resource I've found up to this point. Thank you for thoroughly explaining the process!

[@Michelle-vs3fz]

I've had major health anxiety since the pandemic started. I was fearing I had COVID all the time. Now it's an obsession with my heart. I was checking my heart rate when you mentioned it! I have heart palpitations and feel like I'm struggling to breathe. I've been to the Dr several times and my heart is fine. But I will randomly get sweaty and twitchy and my heart accelerates and the palpitations will start. It's scary! But she said we need my anxiety under control or it will cause damage to my heart! So I'm trying to eat healthy and exercise she she prescribed paxil but it's not working. But I'm trying to meditate. And the people close to me with heart issue caused their issues. This was so helpful!

[@glamsbytilly1188]

I’ve experienced this too, and it’s takes a toll on you. For me it started on April 13 my first panick attack because I woke up to acid reflux I couldn’t breathe and it reminded me of the time I had covid and wasn’t able to breathe when I would only walk to the restroom I had pneumonia but I got better in 2/3 weeks. Those weeks where horrible. And it’s what is causing my anxiety. Little by little I’m getting bette ray controlling it, this video helped me so much. And to learn about mental health. I’ve been having a headache since early in the morning and trying to calm myself and say it shall soon pass. I really hope you are doing okay!

[@manvioberoi5249]

Thank you so much God bless you all🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@JV-NeverQuit]

This was so HEPFUL!! Thank you and God bless!

[@k.3924]

OMG this is so right on!!! Just like stephanie! I spent 2 hours today looking up my blood results from today! I do have to smile as all of this is a little over the top when it's spelled out!

[@SeniorNessuno]

After watching this, I had a couple hours of peace, but of course, the ruminations started up after a while.

[@Alonzo42189]

This was a great eye opening video….thank you ….🙏🏽 I feel relaxed now

[@raggedbreath]

This is great. I suffer from a different anxiety but it's linked and this is giving me some excellent coping strategies. Thanks

[@alexandradeiseroth]

Thank you so much for this video! It has helped me a lot :) It is all about learning the tools to deal with the anxiety when it comes up

[@PouthSaw]

Just watching this video made me feel so much better

[@bestimpersonations]

This video is unbelievable. Thank you so much.

[@jerichoj1540]

Thanks for this guys! Very valuable information! Really helps!

[@Refulgent_Rascal]

This was great, thank you very much!

[@fitnova_]

One thing I never hear anyone touch on is phantom pains as well. I used to think about my heart every waking hour of my adolescence. The physical pain I felt in my heart was horrible . It’s wasn’t GERD or acid reflux. My brain literally caused real physical pains 🫠 thank god I stopped obsessing and it went away 99%

[@Alllrise]

Thank you all for this free information

[@mistywatercolormemories]

Thank you so much for this information!! This gives me hope!

[@MrGeslachtsdeel]

Watching this, for some reason feels so reassuring

[@wallyrbc]

An extremely helpful video! It’s going to take a lot of time and effort to break free of my habits. Whatever I’ve been doing to recover from this disorder has certainly not been working.

[@seybat]

I have re-watched this and want to repeat. This is best explanation I have evet seen. If you have health anxiety, please watch it multiple times to digest it

[@sandramcfarlane6959]

Can you help me I need your help please

[@seybat]

@@sandramcfarlane6959 sure Sandra. Go for it

[@ithaemengeiana4416]

same here 👍🏽👍🏽

[@prask4277]

Thank you so much.Felt like most of my questions were answered.

[@kanthy4]

This is the best informative video I’ve seen, very professional , thank you!!!

[@jturcios4607]

I’m 18 and have been suffering for 4 years. I’ve never felt more empowered , I’m so grateful for this information ❤️

[@awanzzn]

Bruh litreally same I'm 18 years old and i am suffering from health anxiety from past 4 - 5 years , this pattern has been tough for me frr i want to end this

[@PhuzzBuzz]

The slide talking about the Opponents Rules hit me so hard today. I had been avoiding going to the doctor for a few years now because I had a long history of being crippled by health anxiety that lead me to become very anxious and depressed to the point of needing hospitalization. I basically got lost in symptom checking and Google searching and seeking reassurance from doctors, ERs, etc. I spent the last few years better understanding that and wanted to face going to the doctor because I was afraid. Afraid of what they would do to me, tell me, etc. I got up enough composure to do it and seemed ok until the nurse started checking my vitals. She didn't say much other than "this was pretty high" after taking my blood pressure reading. Well when I heard that a rush of adrenaline shot through my body like ice water. I became extremely anxious, uncomfortable. I started sweating and shaking. I kept reminding myself that 1) I get nervous naturally when I think about going to the doctor, so that will cause a slight bump in my readings and 2) I might have high blood pressure, which isn't like something anyone wants but it is treatable and millions of people live with it. Why should I be afraid to know where my body stands? I think it goes back to the idea that anxiety wants a sense of certainty, and knowing if something is off destroys that certainty and cause panic and dread so better to either totally avoid it or totally become hypervigilant about it. I began to beat myself up saying things like "Why did I avoid going to the doctor?!?! You are so stupid!!!" and so on. I got back a few hours ago and have been in an anxious after shock so I decided to re-watch this and it has helped. I have to accept what is, do what I can, and live my life. Anything other than that just is like spinning my wheels. Thanks for listening.

[@angryyoungman4389]

Worst is We hear it and Say let's see what we can do about it.

[@blessing_3614]

How are you doing right now? This is the EXACT SITUATION I AM GOING THROUGH. Went to a doctor's appointment today, have a phobia of blood pressure machines. First time I checked it was 165/90! The nurse calmed me down and after 3 tries it got down to 129/70. I despise this feeling, of feeling scared and being worried about my health. It really is hell. What have you been doing to combat it? 💕 Sending you immense blessings. God bless

[@Keirnoth]

@@blessing_3614 Every time I get my blood pressure checked at the doc it's always at a high number like yours. That's usually because when I go to the doc it's for a health anxiety condition. Something I'm worried about. Guess what - the one time I went to the doctor or some unrelated issue (I wanted to renew my prescription for my physical therapist) - it was back to normal, like 128/85 or something. Crazy.

[@cardonadarlene4650]

Very true

[@yourtubeice]

Thank you for this webminar, thank you sir ken and too all of you guys

[@wallyrbc]

The most helpful video ever! Honestly, I watch this video all the time - it’s the only thing that has actually worked.

[@amandaford864]

Thank you for this video, I can’t tell you how much I relate. !! I’m getting a referral for CBT❤️

[@KRAZEEIZATION]

Incredible video. One video explains everything you need to know. I’ve wasted time on various anxiety coaches and this kills em all.

[@Aghareed.Aghareed]

Thank you so much.. 🙏🏼

[@MagicMilbow]

I still go back to this video every now and then when I struggle. Recently found out I have ADHD that could explain all my thoughts and why I’m having trouble with letting things go

[@bullshitto2027]

This vid was a blessing to me😭. Since i've experienced health anxiety again this pandemic i've become curious for what's happening to me and this vid discuss everything i wanted to know. Keep on spreading info, knowledge and awareness🙏

[@heybug9629]

Thank you

[@cursedgasmask3434]

This webinar is so helpful, thank you. I have health anxiety but I didn't knew it, I have experience with depression and enxiety, positive thinking etc. This honestly opened my eyes, thank you once again

[@badaboo1066]

Wow, thank you so much for this great insight.X

[@subrotonag214]

This Webinar have seriously helped me to reduce my anxiety happening after I had a shoulder fracture in a bike accident 3 months ago. Waiting when will this go away forever and I can live like I was before this anxeity attacks.

[@cdeep120]

I wish I had found this video a couple years ago. I love this way of looking at health anxiety bc I am very competitive and looking at it like a duel with a clever adversary is perfect for me. I will win, no matter what.

[@angelaconstable1166]

This is the best thing I've ever listened to. Thank you.

[@jdc2126]

Great video presentation! You've contributed a very useful video for people who suffer from this condition.

[@idontknowanymore4842]

It was so refreshing to hear exactly what I’ve been going through, and that I’m not alone. Someone close to me recently had heart failure and since then I’ve convinced myself I have every single heart problem in the world and after going on a google rampage I convince myself I would go into cardiac arrest because of my slightly elevated blood pressure :/ This has helped me understand even a little I am so thankful

[@amyhendley2635]

I'm suffering from IBS-C , having depression, stressed and my anxieties really high thinking I'm gonna die every single hour when my ibs flares up. This is very helpful to me. I listened to it like every day to remind myself I'm not gonna die. Thank you so much .

[@giangerard7097]

This really helps.... Thank you... God bless you... 🙏🙏

[@Irfan-dy1yo]

Thanks alot Mr. Ken for this lovely session.

[@ronforrestjr2493]

Excellent webinar.... Always watch it when my anxiety worsens

[@virtualfitnesstv]

Very impressive video. Wonderful information. Great job.

[@NE-pz4ku]

Can relate with Stephanie. I’m a pulse checker 25 years. Better lately with years of experience therapy etc unless I get flu like symptoms. Trouble tolerating like Dr Goodman said. Covid anxiety awful. Bridges mess me up. Even some agoraphobia in supermarkets sometimes have to remind myself I can breathe. Started in medical school learning about diseases. Past drug use and guilt over that probably encouraged it too. Over protective health anxious mother too that sterilized my silverware so upbringing and genetics too all there. This is spot on information for a crummy psychiatric problem. Thank you for the reminders. Wish therapy wasn’t so expensive even with insurance can be a burden.

[@thaiscostathais9088]

Thank you very much for all the information, it helped me a lot!!

[@shariqk58]

Thanks a lot my anxiety level has got reduced by attending this session!

[@outofthefoxootf979]

I had a heart stent put in at 26 years of age and ever since I have battled with health anxiety. There was no way I would have imagined myself being in this position so early in my life and 6 years on, it has been a nightmare dealing with health anxiety especially after taking the vaccine during this pandemic. My anxiety has gotten so worse that I'm dealing with it on a daily basis, especially the physical pain. I have had many checks and doctors tell me my heart is fine no need to worry. Watching this seminar I was mind blown at how all the symptoms spoken about were exactly like mine and it has given me some reassurance. I'm due to have my first visit with a specialist in 2 days so I really hope I can overcome this and move on with my life.

[@nylakhan5658]

Place your trust in God almighty he will heal your pain xx

[@outofthefoxootf979]

@@nylakhan5658 Amen

[@katherinebrooks7273]

Thank You for this Video. Very Informative.👍

[@akairibbon4658]

Remarkable video, truly helpful for people with health anxiety.