Check It Off

 

Hello, my friends. Today was the day. If you have read here for some time, you are familiar with my OCD and Health Anxiety diagnosis. My annual mammogram is a trigger for my anxiety. It is just what my mind decided to latch onto. This year I handled the anticipation much better than in years past, partly due to the tools my therapist and psychiatrist have given me. Partly because of the medication I take to treat my OCD. And partly because of the love and support from family and friends that helped me look at this annual appointment differently. 

I dread my annual mammogram. Not the test itself, but rather the fear of what the results could be. My friend Danielle helped me to change my thinking about it. Now I try to think of it as maintenance for my body, as something I can do to keep myself healthy. I liken it to my annual physical, dental, or eye doctor appointments. None of which give me anxiety, by the way. I go to it, and I can cross off my list. And so today, I went. Danielle and Steve went with me. It was quick and painless. And the results were good. Thank You, Lord. I made another appointment for next year, said a prayer of thanksgiving, and got some lunch and a coffee.

I am home now, showered, and on the couch. Relieved, thankful, and happy that I did it and didn't let my anxiety stop me. If you have a concern about any medical test, I get you. Try to look at it a different way. You are taking care of yourself. And you will be relieved and glad you did! 

Have a wonderful weekend, my friends!

Thanks for visiting!

Billie Jo

Time For The Annual Skin Check!

 

Hello, my friends. Today I am off bright and early for my yearly skin check at the dermatologist. Almost two years ago, I had a Basal Cell Carcinoma removed from my face. I wrote a post about it HERE. Thankfully, the doctor removed it, and it has healed beautifully. Because of that, I now go yearly for a skin check by a dermatologist. I don't actually enjoy this experience and get a bit anxious before the appointment. Still, I remind myself that I am fortunate to be able to have a doctor check my skin and make sure everything is ok. And if not, then it can be taken care of. So far this year, I have had my annual physical by my PCP, my yearly eye exam, and after today, my dermatologist appointment. All that remains is my annual gynecology appointment and mammogram later this summer and the dentist in the fall. The joys of middle age, right??

Well, have a good Wednesday, whatever you are up to today. I hope to be home, showered, and on the couch visiting with you all later this afternoon. Thanks for visiting!

And because I have a thing about always having a photo in my posts, enjoy this one of Mocha looking very much like a Muppet.  : )

Billie Jo

Check It Off

Yep. Today was the day. I had my yearly screening mammogram. This is a tough one for me. My health anxiety seems to dwell on this in particular, and I have to force myself to deal with the anxiety. I think it is very common for women to fear this annual exam. How do I make it easier? I have an awesome support system, unending faith in God, a super husband who takes me, and perhaps my best tip? I schedule my yearly female appointment right after. Then, we can discuss any issues, and I am done for another year.

Thanks be to God, I am clear for another year. So, I check that off the list. And enjoy my last little tip. Treat yourself to something special! 

 

My first official Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season!

Have a good day, dear friends.

Thanks for visiting.

Billie Jo

Anxiety And OCD Update

 

It's OCD Awareness Week!

PSA: Get Checked Out

See that teeny tiny spot under my eye?

The one that looks like a pimple?