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Hypochondria

Discussion in 'General Baptist Discussions' started by Benjamin, Jun 25, 2008.

  1. Benjamin

    Benjamin Well-Known Member
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    Any of you have to deal with people who are obsessed with illness. How do you deal with it?

    Several members in my family talk about little else whenever I speak to them even though I try to change the subject.

    My Mom, all 4 foot 10 inches of her, is the biggest threat to my stability when having to deal with this. For example: she goes to the doctor an average three or four times a month and often gets tested for various illnesses; I always hear about these in great detail. She has had a stint put in her heart, so there is some cause of concern, but I can’t begin to tell you about all the details and complications that worry her and are the main topic of discussion…always.

    I am quite the opposite when it comes to going to the doctor, but she is always afraid and I do sympathize with her fears, after all she is Mom and so little and venerable, LOL.

    Yesterday, she called me to tell me that a childhood friend had died of a heart attack, then that she had taken out her Bible and wrote in it, and reminded me for the umpteenth time that it was going to be mine when she goes. It does make you think, and low and behold she got heart flutters last night and called 911 ending up in the hospital. So I get the call early this morning and am brought to tears in worry, but turns out all is fine, yet I feel set up for an emotional rollercoaster ride regardless, and I could have seen this coming, and/but what if I was wrong? Not a good way to start your day!
     
    #1 Benjamin, Jun 25, 2008
    Last edited by a moderator: Jun 25, 2008
  2. abcgrad94

    abcgrad94 Active Member

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    I have a relative like this. She seems to enjoy the attention it brings her. Whenever she starts feeling neglected, she suddenly thinks she's dying. Stay calm and don't ride the coaster with her. Sounds like she needs the stability.
     
  3. pinoybaptist

    pinoybaptist Active Member
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    Hypochondria is by and large psychological and the illnesses it causes are often psychosomatic (there. 5000 posts and I am finally using big words :laugh: ) but like you said, better be sure when it comes to mom.

    Had an uncle who was hypchondriac, too.

    I happen to mention I am feverish and am taking an aspirin, you can count on him developing fever.

    He hears a friend has cancer, and off he runs to the specialist.

    just be patient and love the hypochondriacs, especially if they're family.
     
  4. Born_in_Crewe

    Born_in_Crewe Member

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    This thread has made me feel ill ;)
     
  5. Deacon

    Deacon Well-Known Member
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    There has to be a middle ground,
    At 50, you ought to see a doctor and get your 50,000 mile checkups.

    And her at about 70, how much longer do you think you will have to hear her complain?
    Listen to her and remember you will probably be like her in another 20 years.

    Rob
     
  6. abcgrad94

    abcgrad94 Active Member

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    :laugh: :applause: Good one!
     
  7. Joe

    Joe New Member

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    Say...very very nicely..." it sounds like you aren't doing real well, so maybe you can call me when you feel better?"
    Then get off the phone fairly quick as to not really hear her answer, as you feel it is best to cease the conversation so she can rest. Do that each time the complaining drags on and on and it should get somewhat better. That's what I do.
     
    #7 Joe, Jun 26, 2008
    Last edited by a moderator: Jun 26, 2008
  8. Sopranette

    Sopranette New Member

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    It can turn into a situation of, "crying wolf", so you DO need to listen. Besides, it will hurt her feelings if you don't. I just play along and say, "uh huh" now and then. It doesn't cost anything to just hear her out, even if it is a little draining. She just wants a little attention, is all. That's only human.

    love,

    Sopranette
     
  9. Joe

    Joe New Member

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    Good post S. :) Always listen to her, she could really be sick one of those times. You can't make them feel so bad that they don't call when they actually need you.
     
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