Fear of physical and mental illnesses

[Let-there-be-peace]

Lately I've been experiencing a lot of derealization. It's like I'm floating. Feels like I don't know anyone around me- sure, I know their names and faces, but everything feels fake and unreal. This, paired with my anxiety and depression, is driving me nuts. Ever since I saw my previous therapist in March, I've been worried I'm developing schizophrenia, or something similar, since she basically manipulated me into feeling that way. Worst time of my life. Right now I'm o the verge of a panic attack, and it feels like my sanity is slipping through my fingers. Like my head is full of cotton and I can't think clearly, or feel right. I've felt this way in the past, but I'm always scared I'll either wake up psychotic, or wake up dead from a heart attack or something because my hear feels like an air bubble (idk how to describe it besides that). Am I going crazy? Do I have a brain tumor? I know some people with schizophrenia only experience psychosis once or twice but... I don't want that. I don't want anything that tough to deal with. Any coping strategies for this? My therapist I have now recommends mindfulness but that hasn't been working much. (sorry for the long rant but comment help or if you also have these problems). I'd also like to add I do experience paranoia and bizarre beliefs, but I know in the back of my mind they're not true. I'm only 16, if that helps.

[Calm_mama]

Hi,

Let me assure you that this is very common with anxiety and that it's all simply part of a sensitized nervous system. If you look through posts you will see how frequently these feelings/sensations you describe come up! Please check out the resources on my profile. They all address the many symptoms of anxiety, including derealization, and offer the correct approach to recovery. Dr. Claire Weekes is the master. The other resources have excellent information that build on her work and present it in ways that speak to certain people.

Since you are 16 I will mention this Do you like Logic? (the musician, rap artist). I have teens and we listen to a lot of Logic. We have anxiety in our household and Logic has helped us all a lot. He talks (interviews) and sings about his experiences with intense, bewildering anxiety, including the symptom of derealization. His story of recovery is quite inspiring. If you are so inclined, check that out. Warning don't take this suggestion if you are averse to 4-letter words Also, I would suggest that a rap artist alone is not the cure- but an add-on to the messages in the resources I list. Keep us posted?

[wingsofadove]

Hi. Your experiences are similar to what mine were. At the height of a breakdown I thought I was going out of my mind, unreal and floating in a space, totally in limbo. My therapist gave me a practical tip which worked for me. It may help you. She told me to stand behind an upright (preferably wooden) chair with my two hands on the back and to press down with my feet as firmly to the ground as possible. This helped to ground me. I hope it can help you. It is a way of affirming your rightful place on the earth here and now and in the present, shutting out everything else. Good luck. Hold on in there, you are never alone. xx