Terrified of Seeking Medical Help

Always say up front you have an anxiety disorder. A compassionate dr will take note and move at your speed.

Advocate for yourself to your doctor. You could start with, “I have a phobia regarding both doctors & medications. This is what I am (or aren’t) comfortable with: ______” Think about what you don’t like beforehand, and what makes you feel safer. For me, I like wearing my own clothes instead of paper gowns when we possible. I like leaving my undergarments on if I can for scans & hospital procedures. I take a stuffed animal with me to the hospital. I don’t like being hooked up to things. I’m getting better with IVs, but on bad days, I let my nurse/phlebotomist know that I don’t like being touched without them walking me through everything they’re doing and/or giving me a warning before they touch me. I tell my doctors the same. I want to know everything (I’m a scientist so I want data and step by step info). Some people would find that extremely overwhelming. Find what feels true to you & makes you feel the safest. I don’t like going to a new doctor ever. If you’re nervous, that’s okay. But let them know, because a good practitioner will listen.

Are you terrified because you’re afraid of knowing what you have or just because you don’t trust doctors in general? It is hard work finding a doctor who you trust and who cares about you as an individual. But it is a must if you’re going to get better. ❤️