Posted by King Vultan on May 21, 2004, at 17:06:08
In reply to Please help- I am stuck - Thank you, posted by Jeffrey on May 21, 2004, at 16:02:08
I have had problems very similar to this in the past with excessive worrying and obsessive thoughts and can tell you that it is possible to overcome it, as that's what I have been able to do. In my case, it took a number of years, and I believe I was aided by the Zoloft and Effexor that I alternately took during that time, but I believe the real key was important insights that I gained along the way.
I can comprehend your mindset regarding the example of the X-ray you gave, and I don't know if this will be of any benefit or not, but let me point out two things:
1) How much danger is there, objectively? I believe the answer is
There is some risk of cancer, but as you indicated, it is very small. If I may offer my opinion, it is so small that it is not worth worrying about.
2) What can you do about it? I believe the answer is
not a damned thing--other than worrying about it.
Meds are fine and can be most helpful, but regardless of what you're taking, you have to eventually come to the realization that it doesn't do any good to worry about things that have already happened and you cannot change, particularly when they're this inconsequential (Don't think I'm faulting or criticizing you, as I assure you that I'm a person who used to be a chronic worrier and would go from one worrying about one thing to another and another and another...) I would highly suggest therapy or perhaps even better, a self help book targeted towards your particular situation. I do wish you well.
Todd
poster:King Vultan
thread:349325
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040521/msgs/349345.html