A 26-year-old woman, how to deal with excessive anxiety and fear of getting sick, and how to control it?

Hello, question asker!

From your description, it's clear that you're particularly afraid of getting sick and being infected. You often wash your hands, which suggests you're worried about your physical health and want to avoid being infected.

Let's get to the heart of your feelings.

Illness is terrifying for you. You're not afraid of poor health, but you're afraid of being disliked if you're sick.

You need to be careful to keep things that might harm or "pollute" you at bay and keep your body and mind in a very clean state to be liked by others.

You said that what makes you feel accepted and loved is being a flawless person.

You said you have been living alone for ten years, which means you have been living alone since you were 16.

Tell me about your parents.

You live alone, and they want to cultivate your independence by sending you far away to study. Why can't you live with your parents? Is it because of their strict requirements and nitpicking, or is there another reason?

Tell me, have your parents ever looked down on you?

Tell me how your classmates and teachers treated you.

Tell me, did you suffer alone when you were sick?

You are good enough.

The slight "cleanliness" you show in your body is likely a kind of compulsive behavior compensation caused by some psychological rejection of your own emotions.

Relieve your anxiety by accepting your current emotions.

Then, you can ask for help or think back to yourself to find out when these thoughts first appeared and what happened at that time.

Look at that incident again today. What new thoughts do you have? Do you hate your past self? Or would you take her hand and return to the present together?

If you think people will dislike you when you're sick, you're wrong. You're treating illness as the "bad guy" and thinking that other people will only accept the good side of you.

Illness is a reminder to treat ourselves kindly and is our ally.

You can't avoid getting sick. The only healthy relationship is one where you are still liked in times of crisis.

Those who dislike you being sick are not outside. They are inside you.

If you are sick, there is someone who can and will hug you and love you. Who do you think that person would be?

The above.

I am Yan Guilai, a psychological counselor. Best wishes!

Greetings,

My name is Kelly Shui.

[26-year-old girl, what is the most efficacious course of action to address excessive anxiety and fear of getting sick? How might one most effectively control it?]

The questioner indicated that they experience excessive anxiety about contracting an illness and are concerned about contact with other individuals.

Indeed, there are numerous individuals who exhibit similar characteristics, and these traits are often influenced by past experiences.

[Regarding anxiety]

A 26-year-old female patient comes to mind. The patient recently reported excessive anxiety about getting sick and a fear of being infected by other people's germs or viruses.

Let us posit the following hypothesis:

During the pandemic, there was a pervasive sentiment of apprehension regarding the potential for contracting the virus from contact with others.

Furthermore, there have been multiple instances of recurring outbreaks, which have also had a minor impact on the mental health of individuals.

These are the physical and mental changes that the times and environment have brought to everyone. It is beneficial that we are aware of them and can protect ourselves.

For example, if one were to mention that a friend has a skin disease (not contagious), it would indicate that one is not rejecting the friend, but rather exhibiting signs of excessive nervousness or having learned about the friend's illness through one's own observations.

While caution is advisable, excessive caution or anxiety-driven triggers warrant further investigation.

One might inquire whether individuals who have been in contact with others have developed dermatological conditions.

For example, it would be beneficial to ascertain whether there are any individuals within the family who exhibit signs of anxiety.

My mother, for instance, exhibits considerable anxiety and apprehension about contracting a cold from others and the prospect of becoming ill.

Conversely, she also induces a state of nervousness in herself on a regular basis, which has an adverse effect on her mental state.

My father is more relaxed, and I have observed that he is currently in better health. It is also evident that emotional tension can lead to increased fatigue.

I have come to appreciate my father's attitude more, and he has gradually become more relaxed over time. In the event of observing another individual with a cold, I frequently consider the importance of hand hygiene.

This is an excellent practice.

Such occurrences can be prevented. The same can be said for doctors. Many doctors are not nervous or fearful because they possess a solid grasp of common sense, professional medical training, and have encountered innumerable patients.

It is possible that this can be enhanced through training and exercise.

This allows for introspection and the formulation of questions regarding one's own experiences in recent years.

Please describe the current state of your family's health.

If we establish connections with more individuals and provide assistance to others, we may also receive something in return. By evaluating the advantages and disadvantages, we can make an informed decision.

Anxiety is a universal experience. Through communication with others, one can identify diverse coping strategies and gain insight from them.

[Regarding fear]

You indicate that you are perpetually concerned that if you become unwell, others will disapprove of you and you will be isolated.

It would be beneficial to ascertain who provided care during previous periods of illness. Additionally, it is important to determine whether the concern about the illness of others is a reflection of one's own internalized fears.

It is erroneous to assume that all individuals in one's vicinity will remain free of illness. It is impossible to guarantee that one will not become unwell. In the event that the consequences are significant and one has exercised caution throughout, it is advisable to seek the counsel of a mental health professional to ascertain the underlying causes of one's apprehension.

Those who were neglected or overlooked in their formative years may develop a sense of self-protection. Even in the absence of familial support, an individual's capacity to care for themselves can foster a sense of security.

We have resided in a single-occupancy residence for a period of ten years and have also developed a proclivity for solitude.

If it does not affect one's work, it is acceptable. However, if one desires to interact with others, attempting to suppress this inclination may prove counterproductive.

It can be observed that when one attempts to regulate this anxious sensation, it is more beneficial to attempt relaxation, rather than exerting control, and engaging in activities that align with the natural ebb and flow of circumstances.

It can be reasonably assumed that all individuals experience some degree of trepidation. I, too, intend to engage in further reading, communication, and the acquisition of beneficial methodologies.

It is important to note that experiencing any emotion is normal and to be expected. It is also important to recognize that you are not alone in this experience.

It is recommended that the following books be read: The Power of Self-Care and It's Worth It.

1. Hello, question asker! My name is Rose, and I'm here to listen and support you in any way I can.

I can sense your current tension and anxiety through your words, and I believe this problem may have been present for some time. You mentioned that you've been living alone for ten years, which may be related to your personal beliefs.

1. Lately, I've been experiencing some anxiety and fear about getting sick.

My dear, I hope you don't mind me asking, but has anything happened recently that has made you feel uncomfortable? And is this related to "getting sick," such as seeing a certain piece of news online, hearing stories from others, or something related to getting sick that happened around you?

Anxiety is a normal emotional response. It is an unpleasant emotion that we experience when we encounter something that is not in our favor and that we cannot handle at the moment, just as you said, worrying about getting sick.

Anxiety is not necessarily a negative emotion. It can be a helpful self-protection mechanism that our body and mind produce. It can remind us to be vigilant and take effective measures to protect ourselves.

For instance, if our goal is to prevent illness, we can take measures like washing our hands frequently and maintaining good hygiene. This can help us to relax more easily.

However, excessive anxiety can affect our normal lives, and this may require us to address certain thoughts that arise in our minds.

2. Perhaps it would be helpful to consider making some adjustments to your personal lifestyle habits.

It might be helpful to try maintaining a regular daily routine, eating a balanced diet, keeping fit and healthy, and ensuring good sleep quality, as these can help to alleviate anxiety.

It might be helpful to consider that engaging in outdoor sports and connecting with your surroundings could potentially shift your focus and assist you in managing your anxiety.

It might be helpful to try to make friends with others in a way that you can use, and to work on breaking through your own inherent limitations in making friends. This could help you to see a new you.

3. Adjusting our perceptions

It may be helpful to consider that what causes us anxiety is not necessarily reality itself, but rather our perception of it. Our perception, in turn, can trigger feelings of anxiety.

Perhaps it would be helpful to identify any unreasonable beliefs you may have. For instance, is it true that you will get sick if you come into contact with other people? In reality, this may not be the case. It can be beneficial to gently challenge these beliefs and allow yourself to experience new emotions.

4. You may be concerned about how others perceive you when you are sick.

It could be said that this kind of thinking is often instilled in us from an early age. For instance, there may be a tendency to believe that if we get sick, we will no longer be able to play with others.

Perhaps this is why we are often so careful not to get sick.

Perhaps this is not the best way to educate. After all, life itself can get sick.

It is important to remember that when we do fall ill, it is not necessarily because we have not taken care of ourselves. There are often a number of factors at play. It is therefore helpful to allow ourselves to fall ill and accept this as part of the natural cycle of life.

Furthermore, it is important to remember that what others think is not as important when you are sick. Everyone gets sick, and those who care about you will still care about you even if you are not at your best.

5. For anxiety

It is not necessary to force ourselves to control our anxiety. Since it has already appeared, we can allow this anxious self, respect our current state, and understand that we are like this because we are protecting ourselves. This is a gift and care that our own lives bring to us.

Secondly, we engage in social interactions in a way that is beneficial to us, focusing on the positive experiences we have in socializing and allowing ourselves to be less influenced by anxious thoughts or feelings. This approach can provide us with new experiences and a reason to consider modifying our established thinking patterns.

If you feel you need help, you should definitely seek professional assistance.

One reason we help ourselves is because we have the capacity for self-healing, and we can adjust ourselves in some effective ways to alleviate our problems.

If we are unable to resolve the issue ourselves, it may be helpful to seek guidance from a professional. Just as we would when dealing with an illness, it is often beneficial to seek treatment from a medical professional.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my love and blessings to the world.

Good day. I have reviewed the description. A person may experience anxiety due to concerns, fears, or phobias. These may be explicit or implicit, and they may be layered. I am concerned about A because A may trigger B, which may trigger C. When there are no clear and definitive coping strategies or plans, it is easy to become overwhelmed.

As long as we have a clear understanding of the issues we are concerned about and a plan in place to address them, we will be in a better position to manage our concerns effectively. Let's examine your situation together to identify the best course of action.

The immediate concern is the fear of infection from other individuals' pathogens, which could result in illness. This is a typical concern, and awareness of personal protection from pathogens is essential.

It is also important to understand that bacteria and viruses are a natural part of the environment, including in the air, water, animals, plants, and on human bodies. Some bacteria are harmful, while others are beneficial. In the Chinese diet, bacteria are often used for fermentation. Even harmful bacteria require a significant amount of contact or ingestion before causing physical discomfort. The human body also contains beneficial bacteria, such as in the mouth and intestines, which assist in food digestion. When foreign bacteria are ingested, the body's own bacteria will initially attack them. This process helps to destroy a small amount of harmful bacteria.

The human body also has an immune system, which is a comprehensive system and mechanism that continuously scans and patrols the body. Once it identifies the incursion of foreign bacteria or viruses that the body's own bacteria are unable to eliminate, it initiates the defense mechanism and targets the invading germs. During this process, there may be corresponding physical symptoms, such as a common fever, which may indicate that the immune system is combating the invading bacteria and viruses.

Physiological reactions are signals sent by the body to indicate a need for medical attention. At this time, there is no need to delay seeking treatment. Medical professionals are trained to select the most appropriate medication or treatment based on the individual's circumstances. It is important to recognize this knowledge and the various ways to address it, whether through self-care or seeking expert guidance. We have comprehensive protection at every level.

You have indicated that you are concerned about being in contact with a friend who is sick. It is important to ascertain the nature of the illness, whether it is infectious, and the potential transmission routes. As long as appropriate precautions are taken, there is no cause for concern. Some diseases are transmitted through the air, some through the blood, and some through direct contact with the affected area. There are corresponding protective measures for different diseases, so it is essential to understand them before taking action.

A deeper logic may be that you are concerned that if you become unwell, people will avoid you because they do not like you. This aspect may be related to your upbringing, especially since you say you have lived almost alone for ten years. You may desire the support of family, friendship or other interpersonal relationships, so you are very worried that people will stay away from you because of your illness. You need to be aware that getting sick is normal, everyone gets sick, and people usually do not stay away from you because of a minor illness.

The deeper, more fundamental causes of your inner worries can be discussed with a counselor, who can assist you in exploring them.

To address the issue of anxiety, it is essential to identify the root cause. This entails questioning the underlying concerns, evaluating their significance, and determining an appropriate course of action. As long as the situation is clear and the response is feasible, anxiety will not arise.

I hope you will find this information useful and inspiring. I would also appreciate your feedback at your earliest convenience so that I can continue to build on my experience, enhance my abilities, and help more people.

Best regards,

Good day, My name is Xintan Coach Fly Free. Life is a journey, not for appreciation, but for growth and development.

From your text, I have identified several key themes: excess, cause and effect, and control. Let's share and discuss these further.

1. Reframe anxiety.

Anxiety is an emotion that arises from a perceived threat to the future. While fear of the future can motivate us to take action, prolonged periods of constant alertness can result in a depletion of energy and resources.

As a result of living your life every day in a state of exhaustion and caution, which has caused internal depletion over an extended period, it will inevitably affect your work, study, and life.

There are numerous potential causes of anxiety, including concerns about personal health, the possibility of infection, and the potential for social rejection due to illness.

(1) Family education factors are related to the personality formed by a person receiving family education from an early age, such as being introverted and pursuing perfection. Such individuals are prone to anxiety.

(2) External stress factors, including academic pressure, work-related stress for young professionals, and the risk of mortality from numerous diseases for the elderly. Additionally, relevant experiences of loved ones and friends may also contribute to stress.

(3) Information Dissemination Factors. The wide dissemination of information can easily cause panic in people, for example, during an epidemic.

(4) Individual personality factors. Some individuals are perfectionistic and more prone to anxiety, which affects their personal health. They experience various discomforts, such as dizziness, headaches, palpitations, chest tightness, shortness of breath, acid reflux, and poor sleep.

Chairman Mao Zedong once cautioned that "all difficulties are paper tigers." The potential threats that may exist in the future are also imagined. Rather than focusing on what might happen in the future, it is more productive to consider what can be done in the present to prepare for the future.

2. How to manage anxiety

You stated, "If I become unwell, people will avoid me and I will be unpopular." This is a limiting belief: only if I do this or that will people like me.

In other words, the root cause of your anxiety is not the prospect of getting sick, but the fear of being rejected by others and being perceived as unlikable. What you truly desire is to be liked, accepted, and recognized.

They appreciate you for who you are, with all your strengths and weaknesses. They value you for your overall well-being, whether you're in good health or facing challenges.

It is not possible to define love as choosing only one's strengths and rejecting one's weaknesses.

It is important to recognize that the satisfaction we seek in others is often driven by unmet emotional needs from our own childhood experiences. Taking a moment to reflect on whether you received affirmation, praise, and recognition from your parents during your upbringing can provide valuable insight.

Or is it that they have been brought up in a way that emphasizes criticism, blame, and denial? Only people who are emotionally fulfilled (i.e., who have sufficient psychological nourishment) can radiate a sense of security, presence, and worth. What we see is a powerful state of being.

You inquired about methods for "controlling" anxiety. Repression of this emotion will only result in its intensification. This can be likened to the phrase, "Do not think of a white elephant." It is, in fact, the very elephant that you are thinking of.

When anxiety arises, allow it to express itself fully. If you ignore it, it will eventually subside. This is how emotions send important messages: they may be about a sense of security, being affirmed, being noticed, or being recognized, among other things.

Once this message has been received and the role of emotions as messengers has been fulfilled, they will cease. To achieve a state of mindfulness and focus on the present moment, you may wish to consider undertaking some meditation exercises.

"Jump Out of Your Head and Into Your Life" provides insight into the brain's capacity for daydreaming and offers strategies for managing this phenomenon. "Psychological Nutrition" is also a recommended resource for learning to nourish oneself and boost one's heart's energy.

I hope the above is helpful to you, and I wish you well.

Should you wish to continue the conversation, you are invited to follow my personal homepage, "Heart Exploration Service".

Hello, author!

The description is short, but it doesn't affect my understanding of you. In fact, "worrying that you may be infected with a disease" is actually a very normal thing! To find out how to adjust this anxiety, we first need to understand what is behind it.

Let's dive right in and talk about this topic!

You're 26 years old and have recently discovered that you suffer from excessive anxiety and fear of getting sick, especially from germs or viruses from other people. I'm excited to understand more about this!

1. "Recently" specifically refers to when this state of affairs began.

2. I'd love to hear more about what happened before this state of affairs that left such a deep impression on you!

3. So, what's your current physical and mental state?

I'm excited to share that the above three points are designed to help you identify the root cause of your anxiety. Once you pinpoint the origin, you'll be ready to make positive changes!

You also said, "My friend has a skin disease (the kind that is not contagious)," and then when she comes into contact with you, you get scared. Then you said, "Although I know I should trust her, I'm afraid of being infected, so I often want to wash my hands." - When I read this, I want to lead you to understand these behaviors of yours from a different perspective:

1. A friend has a skin disease, and although it is not contagious, it is totally normal for us to want to "protect ourselves" when faced with "uncertainty."

2. The great news is that there is absolutely no conflict between the two behaviors of "trusting them" and "worrying about being infected." The former expresses the state of your relationship, while the latter considers your own health.

— Absolutely! If the other person is a true friend, they will totally understand your point of view.

3. Washing your hands is a great way to protect your health! And every ordinary person who pays attention to personal hygiene will encounter many times during the day when they need to wash their hands. (In fact, whenever you feel like washing your hands, you can do so.)

My dear, you see, there is actually not so much absolute right and wrong in this world, which is great news!

You also mentioned that you are "always afraid that if you get sick, people will look down on you" and "no one likes me." When I read this, I actually wondered: Huh, has this friend forgotten herself?

Absolutely! The most important partner in our lives is none other than ourselves.

Your caution is actually also to "protect yourself in every way." I don't know what you've been through during the nearly ten years you've been living alone, but you've done a great job of protecting yourself!

As for your question, "How do I control this anxiety?" I don't think I can give you a very specific method, but if I really have to share it, there are only two words: coexistence!

In fact, from the moment you choose to release this anxiety onto the platform, you are already trying to coexist with your anxious state. That state is like you having a conversation with your own [anxiety]. The theme of that conversation is "talking to dear anxiety," and you're doing a great job!

So in this process, you've been doing something really great! You've been "appeasing your inner child." You may feel like you haven't done anything, but I can tell you've been trying very hard to adjust yourself.

I've got some great advice for you! Don't worry, there's no one else out there but you. Okay, time's up, we'll leave it there for now.

Love yourself, adjust yourself, and take care of yourself!

Dear friend, I understand your anxiety. You are 26 and have lived alone for ten years. You may have faced difficulties and challenges alone, which may make you sensitive about your health.

There are ways to find solutions to your fear of getting sick and worry about germs. First, recognize that this anxiety is not based on real danger. It is a reaction of your brain that is overreacting.

Our bodies can fight most common bacteria and viruses. Even if we are exposed to some, we may not get sick.

It helps to understand how diseases are spread and how to stop them. You can get accurate information from reliable medical sources and doctors.

For example, find out which skin diseases are truly infectious and how they are transmitted. When you understand this, you will be able to judge the risks you face more rationally.

Think about why you're so anxious. Could it be that you've had serious illness or seen others suffer?

If you face your root causes head-on, it may help to reduce your anxiety.

You can relieve anxiety through relaxation techniques. For example, do deep breathing exercises. Find a quiet place to sit, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing.

Meditate for 10 minutes a day to calm your thoughts and focus on your feelings.

Exercise helps relieve anxiety. It can help by making chemicals in the body that make you feel better and less anxious.

Choose a sport you like and stick with it.

Changing your thinking is also important. When you worry about getting sick, try to think positively.

Tell yourself you have a healthy body and a strong immune system.

You can also overcome this anxiety by doing more social activities and meeting new people. Talking to others can make you feel cared for and more confident.

It may be hard at first, but you can start with small groups and get used to it.

You also need to accept that you can't control everything. Life is full of things you don't know or can't control.

Accept this uncertainty and believe you can cope with difficulties.

Your fear of being disliked and unloved after falling ill is an overactive worry. True friends and family will care for you when you are sick.

Believe that people are sincere and warm.

Setting small goals can also help you overcome anxiety. For example, start by washing your hands less often. Or try to spend more time with friends who have a non-communicable skin disease.

Reward yourself for every small goal you achieve.

Be patient and persistent. Overcoming excessive anxiety takes time.

If you keep taking positive steps, you will be able to control this anxiety and live a more relaxed life.

You're not alone. Many people can help you, including counselors and your friends and family. Believe in yourself. You can overcome this anxiety and have a bright future.

Thank you for your question.

It is certainly a possibility that you are experiencing the kind of situation you describe, with "excessive anxiety about becoming ill."

For this reason, I would like to offer some food for thought:

Anxiety can be understood as a reaction to a perceived threat or uncertainty in the future, such as the uncertainty of being afraid of getting sick.

It is important to note that while anxiety may be a normal emotional response, when it becomes excessive, persistent, and interferes with daily life, it may develop into an anxiety disorder.

It is thought that there are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of anxiety, including genetics, the environment, life experiences and psychological factors.

For instance, it is possible that people who have experienced serious illness or health problems may be more sensitive to health issues and may worry that they will experience similar problems again.

It is also possible that someone in the family has suffered a serious illness in the past, which may have triggered excessive worry about health problems.

It is also possible that individuals who are more sensitive or perfectionistic may experience heightened anxiety about health issues.

It is also possible that the abundance of health-related news and information may contribute to feelings of anxiety.

For instance, as you mentioned, "I'm concerned about catching the virus, so I frequently think about washing my hands. I'm often afraid that if I get sick, other people will avoid me and I'll be isolated."

You may wish to consider some of the following methods to help relieve and cope with excessive anxiety caused by the fear of illness:

Perhaps it would be helpful to establish a new understanding.

As discussed in the previous analysis, acquiring a fundamental understanding of health and illness, recognizing the origins of anxiety, and developing a sense of common sense about health can potentially alleviate the fear caused by a lack of information.

For instance, it might be helpful to gain a basic understanding of how bacteria or viruses can be transmitted, as well as how skin diseases are passed on. This could potentially help to reduce any anxiety caused by cognitive errors.

Another option to consider is developing a healthy routine.

For instance, it might be helpful to have regular physical examinations and health checks, which could help to confirm your health status and reduce your concerns.

It may also be helpful to maintain a good diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, as these can help enhance the body's sense of health and reduce anxiety.

You might also consider engaging in activities that interest you, as a way of distracting yourself and reducing your excessive focus on health issues.

It might also be helpful to learn some coping skills.

You may find it helpful to gradually change your excessive health concerns by setting some small, achievable health goals, and by acknowledging and encouraging yourself when you make a little improvement or progress.

It may also be helpful to identify and challenge negative, self-critical thinking patterns, and to consider approaching health issues from a more positive perspective.

For instance, consider the possibility that "if I get sick, people will dislike me and no one will like me." It's worth noting that if a person has normal interpersonal relationships, getting sick may actually attract the attention and care of others, which could help shift this perspective.

You might also consider trying some relaxation techniques. These can be helpful in relieving anxiety and enhancing psychological resilience.

It may also be helpful to seek out additional social support.

It might be helpful to talk about your concerns with trusted family members and friends. They can provide support and understanding, which can help you cope with anxiety better.

It is still recommended that you promptly communicate with a mental health professional if you have been experiencing chronic excessive anxiety for an extended period of time.

For instance, a counselor or psychologist may be able to assist you in understanding and managing your anxiety, as well as providing helpful coping strategies.

We hope this is helpful to you!

Give the questioner a big hug! I can feel the extreme anxiety, unease, and fear in the questioner's heart. In this situation, it requires more than just emotional control. It also requires acceptance, management, release, awareness, and understanding of one's emotions, discovering the needs underlying these emotions, and giving corresponding satisfaction.

It's okay to have emotions! It's all about accepting them and managing them in a healthy way. When you're feeling anxious, uneasy, or afraid, it's important to understand what those feelings are trying to tell you. For instance, you might feel scared and uncomfortable, and you might even think, "I need help." It's then up to you to recognize those feelings and find ways to satisfy them in a way that's right for you.

Of course, for the questioner, this is not enough. If the questioner wants to no longer be affected by these emotions, he or she also needs to adjust his or her diet and rest patterns. He or she needs to go to bed early, get up early, get more sun, and exercise more outdoors to increase his or her yang energy, heat energy, and immunity. Traditional Chinese medicine says that fear can damage the kidneys. Excessive fear can reflect a deficiency of kidney yang and kidney yin. In addition to the above, it is also necessary to improve with the help of some drugs and food conditioning. This also needs the attention and emphasis of the questioner.

I truly believe that a two-pronged approach that tackles both the physical and psychological problems will quickly free the questioner from emotional distress. I hope these personal views are helpful for the questioner!

Hello. It sounds like you are going through a rough time. I want you to know that your feelings are real and understandable.

You said you worry a lot about illness and germs. This is a common problem. It's not your fault. It might be caused by living alone and worrying too much about your health.

One way to control your thoughts is to analyze them. If you're worried about being infected, confirm that your friend's skin disease is not infectious. Remind yourself that worrying is unnecessary.

Relaxation exercises like deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help relieve anxiety. Allocating time for these exercises each day can help you cope with anxiety.

Also, do more social activities, communicate and interact with others more, and gradually adapt to normal contact with others.

You can set rules for your behavior, like limiting handwashing.

Believe in yourself. Don't worry too much. Accept your imperfections. Don't be too hard on yourself.

When you're more positive, anxiety will go away.

Hello, sweet little sister! How are you doing today?

I just love the age of 26! It's so youthful, vibrant, and full of hope.

You mentioned that you're afraid of other people's germs or viruses bringing you harm, like when a friend develops a skin disease (not contagious). It's totally normal to have these concerns!

If you're someone who's always washing their hands because you're worried about germs, you'll probably do it as soon as you get home. You might even ask your family and friends to wash their hands and disinfect them together. If you're worried about germs, it's totally okay to talk to your friends about it.

Oh, it might also be those habits and anxiety leftover from the past three years of the pandemic.

If something's making us feel uncomfortable, it's always best to just say so. There's no middle ground in this kind of situation – either you get along with your friends happily and warmly, or you just say what's on your mind. For example, I've met friends who insist on using serving chopsticks when eating with others. I don't mind at all, but we all respect the friend who insists on using serving chopsticks.

We all have our own habits and principles, and that's totally okay! If friends understand us and we understand them, then we can continue to get along.

I truly believe that there are so many wonderful things about your friend that are worth getting to know. Your friend has a skin disease, but I'm sure that deep down, your friend doesn't want to get sick either. You mentioned that you're afraid of being disliked when you get sick, but I'm sure that's not true.

We all get sick sometimes, and when we do, we all need support. When we're away from home and encounter problems, the people who are often closest by are often friends we see frequently.

You're a girl who knows how to take care of herself, and that's great! At 26, you're in your prime, and your body is strong and capable of fighting off common bacteria. Many diseases, like the common hives and hepatitis B, aren't contagious just by meeting someone and talking to them.

Haha, it's true that athlete's foot can be easily transmitted by wearing the same shoes, but the good news is that it can be cured by spraying a few bottles of athlete's foot spray. So don't be afraid even if you get sick, just treat it actively and you'll be back to your old self in no time!

It's not easy living on your own for ten years, but I'm sure you'll be just fine! I hope you have a wonderful life and work well!

Hello, I'm Tongyan.

You said you're 26 and have recently become afraid of getting sick, especially skin diseases. You also said you've lived alone for ten years but only recently developed this fear after you started having friends.

Tell me when this fear of developing a skin disease started. Did it start after a specific event?

You said you're afraid of getting sick because you think people will dislike you. It seems like you lack a sense of security. The skin is our natural barrier that protects us and gives us a sense of security.

I believe the reason you're afraid of getting skin diseases is that you're worried you'll lose the current state that makes you feel safe.

It's likely related to the ten years you mentioned that you spent alone, or it may be related to your personal growth experience.

I'd like to understand what you mean by "spent ten years alone." Please describe that decade and how you gradually became the person you are today, surrounded by friends.

You have a powerful strength within you. Without it, you would not have been able to support yourself through the past ten years and have good friends today.

Your reaction to the possibility of getting a skin disease is likely a way to alleviate or control your inner fears and worries. These symptoms protect you from facing your deepest fears to some extent.

This fear is the root of your anxiety. You want to find a way to relieve this anxiety. We must first convince ourselves that we are safe and lovable.

You can relieve this anxiety by first paying attention to and dealing with the relationships around you. When you have enough support to understand your relationship, you can face the fear deep inside you safely and advantageously.

Talk to a close friend about your worries or seek professional help.

Keep a record of things that make you happy and record more details of how you are loved. You are a lovely person who is loved.

Breathe deeply or distract yourself by doing some repetitive mechanical work or exercise when you feel particularly anxious.

In your diary, tell yourself repeatedly that you will always love that child and tell that child that she is always loved.

As you surround your heart with self-assured love, you will find that this external worry about your illness will dissipate.

I wish you the best.

Two statements in your initial reply merit further comment. Firstly, you stated that you are 26 years old and have been living independently since the age of 16. This implies that you have been without parental or social support for ten years. Secondly, you expressed concern about the possibility of becoming unwell. This is a common reaction during periods of illness, but in your case, it appears to be driven by a fear of being disliked. This is a relatively unusual motivation. Most people are concerned about the potential consequences of illness, including hospitalization, the use of needles, surgery, and even death. However, few would cite a fear of being disliked as a primary reason for avoiding illness.

It is erroneous to assume that one's health status will elicit disapproval from others. It is similarly fallacious to believe that one's parents will disapprove of their child's illness.

During your childhood, did you not receive care when you were ill?

The reason for my aforementioned reservations is that I have the distinct impression that you may possess a wealth of hitherto undisclosed information and experiences, the revelation of which you may be reluctant to share for various reasons, including a perceived lack of relevance, a sense of confidentiality, or a fear of confrontation.

If the subject is not yet prepared to engage in discourse on the matter, then it is not necessary to do so. We respect your decision to remain silent.

The only action I can take to assist you is to encourage you to speak up. The veracity of a matter is not always evident in what people say, but rather in what they do not say.

It is imperative to prioritize self-care, including adequate rest, nutrition, and exercise. It is also essential to align one's lifestyle with natural circadian rhythms, such as sleeping and waking at appropriate times. This aligns with the fundamental human tendency to persevere through adversity, even when faced with significant distress. However, to improve one's quality of life, it is crucial to prioritize one's well-being and resilience.

A healthy body is the foundation for developing robust spiritual strength, which can help individuals cope with and overcome panic, anxiety, and depression.

While accumulating physical energy, it is also important to accumulate spiritual energy. When faced with inexplicable worry and doubt, the most effective method for dispelling these feelings is through the power of knowledge. It is essential to confront these emotions and learn from them.

Similarly, when confronted with adversaries, it is crucial to refrain from personal attacks and instead, gain a comprehensive understanding of their background, identify their strengths and utilize them for one's own advantage, discern their weaknesses, or adopt a strategic approach that combines a multifaceted approach with a decisive action.

To illustrate, consider a scenario in which an individual is confronted with a friend's skin disease. While the individual may be aware that the disease is not contagious, they may lack sufficient knowledge about its pathogenesis, healing mechanisms, and prevention methods. When an individual adopts a mindset of seeking knowledge to learn about and understand a disease, they may feel more confident in facing it and interacting with their friend.

Gain energy from knowledge and enrich yourself. It is postulated that your skeptical spirit is not exclusive to the field of health; it may also manifest in other domains. This may present challenges, but it is also a valuable quality. Make optimal use of your gift of doubt and curiosity. Be more curious and learn more. This can significantly enhance your cognitive abilities and provide energy through the improvement of cognition.

It may be the case that it is not knowledge itself that changes one's destiny, but rather the enhancement of one's cognitive abilities as a result of the process of acquiring knowledge. This, in turn, replenishes one's spiritual energy, and it is only when one is full of energy that one is able to resist the hardships of life.

When one has sufficient energy, one is able to confront individuals and situations that previously evoked a sense of reluctance. It is important to recognize that one's 26 years represent merely a fraction of one's lifespan.

Dear questioner, Hello! I just wanted to say that I think you're amazing!

I hope you can feel some comfort in this virtual hug. You're doing so well, but I get the feeling you've been through a lot.

You said you're afraid of being disliked when you're sick. I'm not sure why you think that way, sweetheart. It seems like you're afraid that you're not good enough and that other people don't like you.

I think what you may have experienced is that this low self-worth may come from deep-seated doubts and denial about your self-worth. When we doubt our abilities and value, we are more likely to worry that others will dislike or dislike us if we get sick or perform poorly.

This kind of worry is actually a lack of self-acceptance and self-love, which is totally normal!

Social anxiety can make us feel anxious in social situations because we worry that we won't meet other people's expectations or standards. This anxiety can come from negative social experiences in the past, like being ridiculed, excluded, or rejected.

So, when we're feeling under the weather or not doing so well, it's only natural to worry about what others might think.

You mentioned that you've been living almost alone for ten years, which shows that you're a very independent and strong girl. I'm sure you have ways to help yourself.

I think you can try the following cognitive restructuring to change the negative perception of illness.

1. Let's start by identifying those negative thoughts.

It's so important to learn to observe and identify your negative thoughts when faced with the situation of being ill. We've all been there! Things like "being ill means I am weak" and "being ill will make me lose everything" are totally normal.

2. Take a moment to evaluate the rationality of your thinking.

It's important to assess whether these negative thoughts are based on realistic and reasonable evidence. Often, these concerns are exaggerated or inconsistent with the facts, so it's good to check in with yourself to make sure you're thinking clearly.

3. Challenge and change negative beliefs:

It's always a good idea to look for evidence to back up your beliefs. For example, you could learn about the prevalence and treatability of illness. That way, you'll realize that illness is a normal phenomenon that may be encountered in life.

Let's try something different! Think of some positive and reasonable ways of thinking that are the opposite of negative thinking. For example, you could say to yourself, "Getting sick is the body's way of reminding me to pay attention to my health. It's an opportunity for reminders and recovery."

4. Practice and consolidation:

It's so important to take time for yourself to reflect and record your thoughts. This helps you to understand your negative thought patterns better and to monitor changes.

Gradually expose yourself to situations or information related to illness to build up your psychological tolerance and adaptability. This is called "stepwise exposure." It's a great way to help yourself feel more comfortable with illness.

It's so important to develop positive coping strategies to help you feel more in control when you're facing the fear and worry that can come with getting sick. Maintaining healthy living habits and seeking medical help are two great ways to start.

5. Nurture a sunny outlook!

It's okay to accept reality. Illness is just a normal situation that we all may encounter in life. It's not a disaster or failure.

Stay optimistic! Believe in yourself and know that you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.

It's so important to focus on the positive! When you're unwell, it's a great idea to focus on the positive aspects of being ill. For example, you can appreciate your health more and take care of yourself.

Wishing you all the best and lots of good health!