Hello everybody out there,

It is soooooo nice to find a place where I can share my feelings about
my phobia about going to the doctor. I really envy people who, when
they get symptoms, can just schedule an appointment. I am terrified to
go, not because of the person him or herself or because of the physical
exam, but because they might find something BAD. On the few occasions
when I have really had to go, I sat in that waiting room and almost had
a complete meltdown. Then when I'm in with the actual doctor, I act
like a fearful nut. I just cannot help myself. This is the only area
of my life where I have a lot of fear and anxiety. In most other
areas, I am pretty together. Another thing I do is catastrophize.
Every symptom I get I imagine it's something really bad and work myself
up into such a lather that it almost immobilizes me. I know I need
help on this matter. I am currently looking for a therapist that
specializes in health anxiety. That's the new and improved term for a
hypochondriac. If anyone out there can offer some support, I'd love to
hear from you. I am working up the courage to get routine bloodwork
done, and I'm really scared. Thanks.