No matter how good (or bad) you'd describe your health, one thing is for sure: a little boost is ALWAYS a good idea. Whether that's reading a new, motivating book, or listening to a song that speaks to your soul, there are plenty of resources to help your health thrive on any given day.
There's a lot of talk about infection these days. Coronavirus (COVID-19) has made many of us hyper-aware of exactly what our body is doing — is that a symptom or a seasonal allergy? Are you tired because you stayed up too late watching SNL skits or is your body fatigued? One way or the other, you've probably wondered if you're carrying a pandemic's namesake or actually 100 percent fine. Everyone is a little bit of a hypochondriac these days!
Whether or not you're new to the hypochondriasis scene, it's terrifying to believe you have an illness. Technically speaking, hypochondriasis is an illness anxiety disorder that causes a high-level of stress, both on an individual's body and mind. This adds tension, fear, and abnormal avoidance of doctors' offices. It's not fun, in or out of a pandemic.
Each week, we're bringing you the best resources and influencers to give you a health boost. Here's what we're following this week regarding hypochondriasis.
Book: "Is It All In Your Head?"
There is always a reason for why our bodies and brains act the way they do. Neurologist Suzanne O'Sullivan, MD takes readers through real-life scenarios that people face, not only helping you realize that what you're facing is totally normal but also providing techniques to overcome this stress in your life.
Podcast: "Love Your Anxiety"
Host Emilie Clarke is all about understanding and owning your anxieties — this includes hypochondriasis. She talks about how fear can quickly overwhelm your thoughts and how to stop that from happening. You'll be able to learn, relate, and feel heard after her episode on hypochondriasis.
Instagram influencer: Leah Wiesner
Leah Wiesner is a mental health advocate and consistently serves as a voice for people who experience similar mental illnesses as she does. She shares her long battle with health anxiety, the obstacles she's overcome, and the journey she's still on.
Twitter account: Relief From Anxiety
This time 6 years ago I couldn’t leave my house, go to school, pick up the phone or see a future for myself.
— Amy | Relief From Anxiety (@reliefofanxiety) February 5, 2019
Now, I’m a law graduate working for the emergency services and living on my own. It’s a rocky road, but you have the strength to work through your #mentalillness.
Amy is the author of the Relief From Anxiety blog, a mental health advocate, and a truth-teller in all things health anxiety. Her tweets will relate, inspire, and share.
YouTuber: The Anxiety Guy
OK, so you know you're experiencing health anxiety, but now what? The Anxiety Guy gives you 10 easy, realistic tips to take on your hypochondriasis head-on.
Playlist: Acoustic Covers 2020
Sometimes you just need someone to calm your nerves. Acoustic covers will do just that.
BONUS: Daily Wellness Journal
When all else fails, focusing on the reality you're living can be a grounding force. A wellness journal lets you track what you know, what you're doing, and goals for tomorrow. If anything, you can make lists and cross things off — the MOST satisfying sensation!
Is there a wellness resource you'd like to see featured? Send an email to lily.moe@theodysseyonline.com.
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