How to combat feeling like you’re going to die?

[Meyer_Gdmnx]

Hi guys I’m really really in need of some advice with my generalised anxiety disorder and health anxiety I used to often and still do get the overwhelming feeling that I’m about to die because of how I feel. For example I’m not the best cook and am new to cooking for so I rarely trust myself to make a meal. My father is a very very good cook and 90% makes my meals. He had to go away for a couple of days so I haven’t really been eating the sand amount that I usually would this has lead me to believe I’m going to die pass out or need urgent medical attention. Any advice on this would be helpful and anyway to help curtail these feelings because I can’t just go through life worrying about how much I’ve eaten as there will be occasions where I’m traveling etc where I won’t eat for a number of hours? Any advice?

[TrustnGod]

Hello. I’m so sorry to hear about the anxiety you’ve been going through. I, too, have the fear of dying and it’s the absolute worst. Whether it’s a headache or tingling sensation, I’m always convinced that I’m going to just collapse or something.

Since you’re nervous to cook, I’d recommended eating meals that don’t require cooking like pbj or cold meat sandwiches. There’s not much of a variety but it still gives your body something. What specifically scares you about cooking?

Next remember the facts. The human body is resilient. When it is not getting as much food as usual, it adapts to that and uses what nutrients you give it. As long as you’re eating something for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, then your body will be fine. Also, people fast for sometimes 12+ hours and even then they are ok. Food takes 24-72 hours to completely make it through the digestive system, so even when you’re not eating, nutrients are being absorbed.

If you happen to feel lightheaded while you dad is away, eat something salty or drink a sports drink. This will up your blood pressure, decreasing your chances of passing out. Remember that so much of this fear is in your new as and your body is amazing at what it does. Stay strong for the next few days! You’ve got this !

~Lia

[Meyer_Gdmnx in reply to TrustnGod]

Hi thank you so much for your reply. To be honest I worry that I’m going to give myself food poisoning even with things like mac n cheese and risotto? It’s a huge fear of mine

[TrustnGod in reply to Meyer_Gdmnx]

I feel that 100%. The first time I ever cooked chicken for myself, I was so scared it wasn’t cooked all the way I convinced myself I was food poisoned and had a stomach ache all night! But the chicken was completely fine. Have you ever looked online to see what pictures of cooked food looks like? Those visuals helped me a lot.

[hypercat54]

Hi the average human being can go for around a month without food (but not water) and your body won't come to any harm if you don't eat much for a while. Think about those people in the 3rd world who live on restricted diets!

What's to stop you getting microwave meals or making do with sandwiches? There are lots of prepared foods available in the supermarket. I am not a good cook but I do cook sometimes and I am nowhere near dying through lack of nutriton.

Try and see your dad being away as an opportunity to practice your cooking and get better at it. As long as you keep it simple you can't go wrong. x

[Meyer_Gdmnx in reply to hypercat54]

Thank you for your reply it was very helpful with my anxiety however it brings dashes of agoraphobia so I can’t always go out and get them unfortunately but I truly thank you for your reply

[hypercat54 in reply to Meyer_Gdmnx]

You can buy your groceries online these days. x

[argh52]

Imaging watching the scenario on a tv show. Would you buy it? There are two bachelors living together and only one knows how to cook. He goes away for the weekend. The other one has to go to the emergency room due to malnutrition.

Always remember that since you will be anxious no matter what, what you are anxious about is just whatever you are currently paying attention to.

You are anxious AND you are hungry. You are NOT anxious BECAUSE you are hungry.

[Srivet4]

So, I understand how you feel completely. My therapist told me that most anxieties are rooted in the fear of death or dying. You're not alone by any means. Have you seen a doctor/counselor? I have panic disorder, PTSD, and a touch of agoraphobia and between celexa and counseling, my fears of death have calmed down a lot.

Wishing you all the luck in the world

[Meyer_Gdmnx in reply to Srivet4]

I have yes thank you for your reply and your empathy it’s very much appreciated and I wish you all the luck as well