New Here

[c_bengals2005]

I heard of this site a few days ago after someone commented on a Facebook post recommending it (whoever you are, if you are reading this, THANK YOU!). I have suffered from Emetophobia for as long as I can remember. Truthfully, until I read that Facebook post the other night, I had no idea a true fear like this could exist and I thought I was just plain weird for having it. My family constantly makes fun of me because of it and they just don't get it. I have three young children, ages 8, 5 and 4. I am constantly on edge about them catching a sv and I feel like it negatively impacts their lives because I tend to "shelter" them as much as I can (although now that I have two in elementary school and one in preschool that is becoming impossible). As a result, that only increases my anxiety. I am constantly on edge. I have recently started taking anti-anxiety medication as well as blood pressure medication because I stress myself out so much over sv. I have gotten better over the last 8 years just from having kids and them inevitably catching things. Still, I have a tendency to wash my hands until they are cracked and bleeding. My blood pressure is too high and I need to end this stupid phobia before it (literally) kills me! I am so thankful to have found this site (THANK YOU, again, to the person on Facebook who mentioned it in a comment!). I am looking forward to meeting new friends and battling this awful phobia together!

[mdgirl1977]

Hey and welcome! I also am a mom to a crazy nearly 8 year old boy who goes to public school with 1500 kids and plays 3 sports every week!!! So many germs and my ex has no idea about handwashing or anything. I have finally gotten my son to understand the value in handwashing the last year or so, so there is hope. He uses wipes in his lunch bag and washes his hands before eating (thank god) and knows to not eat off the floor or dirty lunch table at school. I understand the fear and COMMEND you for having 3. Wow, I can barely handle one. No meds but I often fantasize about drinking wine with a straw on a daily basis (but don't)

This phobia is manageable and we are a great board to help you vent and talk you down when things do hit or when you are overwhelmed with fear. Lots of us have kids and there is also a great and active group of teens that also post. I find it helpful to post to help others but also reach out when I need help.

Welcome!

[canonguy]

welcome to the site!

[Mamafear]

Hey there, isn't it a great moment when we realize we're not alone?. Kids can really challenge you, every night as they get into bed I get this stupid feeling that I KNOW is irrational but.... anyway, welcome to the forum and look forward to getting to know you. Donna

[Syrup]

WELCOME! I have two children as well, one is 9 and the other 5. I TOTALLY get the 'sheltering' thing. I am learning to let them be kids, germs and all, though it's beyond difficult. Slowly but surely! The best thing about the future is that it happens one day at a time. So glad you've chosen to join us!

[mdgirl1977]

The best thing about the future is that it happens one day at a time.

What an excellent quote, Syrup!!!!

[horsewoman]

Welcome! This is a good place for support, it has sure helped me through some rough spots.