Extreme worry over unfamiliar conditions
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| Mon, 03-26-2007 - 2:45pm |
Why does my boyfriend get so worried when he has an unfamiliar medical condition, even if it's something small?
He automatically worries that it's the start of a terminal illness or a tumor or something. How can I get him to stop worrying so much? He lets his worries interfere with/take over his life. I hate seeing him go through this, and it stresses me out too, because I get frustrated that I can't help him.
For example, his latest thing: he found a small lump in his neck...probably a gland or lymph node...and he automatically worries it may be lymphoma or something. And he goes on the internet and does unnecessary research and gets himself even more worried. Why can't he just go to the doctor and get it checked out instead of worrying about what it possibly could be?
This has happened a few times already with various conditions, and every time it's turned out to be a minor condition that goes away.

I am sorry to say it's major anxiety. I have panic disorder & agoraphobia & that's how it started. If you can get him to a dr, address that issue. Also--keep him off of webmd! My dr told me it is not regulated by anyone & not all of the info is correct so he may be scaring himself for nothing.
Hi! I am sorry to hear about your bf. What he is experiencing must be difficult for you to cope with. We cannot make a diagnosis. That must be done by a medical professional. There could be a medical condition that has manifested itself as worry. Or, it could be an anxiety disorder. Worry, especially worry without basis is common with anxiety. For your bf's benefit, he should see what is causing his worries & then proceed with whatever recommendations the dr. provides.
Your concern is touching. People must be responsible for their own illness & the care they receive. I am sure your bf appreciates your concern. When he is ready to seek help, I am sure he'll do so. For now, you can only help him by being supportive. Perhaps you would benefit by attending a support group or a NAMI meeting where family & friends are encouraged to learn about illnesses & how they can cope better.
I wish you the best of luck. GBU! (((hugs))) jan
Maybe you could set a time frame, say if it isn't resolved by next week, you will make a doctor's appointment for him?
Sheri Ann