New Here

[cluci]

Hello,
My name is Christine and I have hard-core emetophobia. To some degree or another, I have suffered over 20 years, but in the past several years the fear has really become almost debilitating.

I am the mother of 2 beautiful children (4 and 10 months) and while becoming a parent is wonderful and amazing, it has amplified my phobia 20 fold....you know, because little ones get sick easily and often. I live in near constant fear of stomach illness hitting out household and it is really causing me to almost be afraid to be alone with my children; lest they get sick.

A little over a year ago, my whole household - me being the first - had a nasty stomach bug. While the experience was awful, I got through it and I was hopeful that it would have helped to ease my fear, but it didn't seem to help at all.

A year ago this week, I was hospitalized because I had become extremely depressed and was highly suicidal - all the direct result of this phobia. Medications have taken the edge off, but lately, I'm really feeling low again.

I'm just starting to work with a therapist, but I just don't see ever being able to really be free of this all-consuming fear. I am desperate and scared and just plain exhausted with living this way....

anyway, thanks for reading.....

[what_the_frick]

Welcome! This group is like an extended family. You will find lots of support here.

[waitingforsummer]

Yep, that's exactly how I feel too!

[kittyluvr]

Cluci...I hope this winter isn't too horrifying for you and that things get better. I feel the same way. Im at work now and can't concentrate for anything...

[amie.essex]

Hello and welcome xx

My phobia got much worse after having my children (aged 6 and 2). I know exactly how you feel. My hubby works nights and I'm petrified of them waking in the night and freak out at every little sound they make. I love the weekends when he's home!!!!

What kind of therapy have you started?
I'm starting mine next month - not sure what they're gonna do with me yet!

Take care xx

[cluci]

Thank you everyone - It feels really good to know I am not alone in this. Only 4 people (husband, mom, and 2 closest friends) know about my issue, and while they try, it's very hard for them to grasp/understand....heck, it's hard for ME to grasp/understand!!! At any rate, I look forward to getting to know you all better!