Therapist Nearly Whacked Me Today

 

Because of insurance changes I had not seen my therapist since October. At that time she told me to stop reading recovery books, stay off support forums and stop researching it.

When she asked how I was doing with my research I told her I was back to checking a few things out – she raised her note pad and made a swing gesture – in jest but I understood the meaning.

She told me it can prevent healing and recovery as the “Search” causes the nervous system to get hyped up.

 Has anyone else been told this???

Hi James:)

I am so glad to hear that you were able to resume your therapy...but sorry to hear that she does not recommend using a support site.

I also had a therapist tell me this. He feared that with being involved with an anxiety group, that I would make the anxiety too much of a part of my identity.

I disregarded his advice as you can see.

I am not telling you to do the same...rather just giving you my own experience, so that you can make your own informed decision.

I feel that this group has been a huge part of my recovery. I find that talking with, and helping others with similar struggles, helps me to manage my own issues, and makes me feel good.:)

Now as far as the searching sites and googling symptoms, ect. I think we can all agree that this behavior can feed the anxiety, so I can definitely agree with her on this. It is good to be educated about the disorder...but beyond that, researching can become a trap.

So ultimately, you need to balance making your own desicions with listening to your therapist. They are wonderful in helping us, but like I said...sometimes you have to do what works for you...and staying on here was a decision that I will never regret!:)

Best wishes in whatever you decide!

S.C.

When my anxiety is bad I always come to a support group..I have one other that I have been a part of since my first panic attack several years ago. Reading other peoples stories and getting other peoples opinions can really put my mind at ease and that's what I need sometimes. I do agree to staying off the researchign though...I think that is what ruffled my anxiety right at the moment. Good Luck!