married to emetophobe

[yeoman]

My wife has emetophobia and has had for many years. Recently, though it seems to be getting more and more beyond her control. We have 2 young children and she is always anxious that they/she will get the next bug from school as it does its rounds! I wonder sometimes if she is clinically depressed because of the phobia or whether the phobia is as a result of the depression?


Medical profession do not understand at all and have only made matters worse. Indeed, last psychologist opened up the problem and then left it, leaving her even more vulnerable. She has no confidence that anyone can help her now which makes things even worse for her. Even her parents make no effort to understand and help!


I cope as best I can too. Its hard sometimes trying to carry on 'as normal' with work and friends and my kids. Its at a stage now that I cant leave her too long as she gets very anxious. I want some help as I still feel certain that with the right person helping, we can learn to cope better with this.


Any ideas anyone?


Yeoman.[img]smileys/smilies_06.gif[/img]

[aussielaura]

Not too much idea's i'm sorry but does she know about this site? It helps alot. We are all here for her.

[tcsarah]

Has your wife ever been on antidepressants? I really think it's something she ought to consider as it seems she is suffering so much. I would advise medication along with therapy to help, but you have obviously been very disappointed with how the medical professionals have treated you so far. Sometimes it's necessary to 'shop around' until you find the right GP and therapist, I've found some doctors can be pretty dismissive and not really understand mental health problems as much as others. I saw several until I found one that really knew his stuff regards phobias andanxiety.


I've also seen several different therapists some of which were no use at all and others who helped and really made a difference. Like with all professions/occupations there are some who are not so good at their jobs and others who are brilliant. Please tell your wife to not give up on therapy and medical help as the right doctor and therapist is out there, you just have to keep plugging away until you find them.


You and your wife may find reading the articles in the 'Treatments' thread helpful. Such as these: http://www.emetophobia.org/forum/for...sp?TID=1927&am p;PN=1 http://www.emetophobia.org/forum/for...sp?TID=1925&am p;PN=1


You are obviously a very caring and supportive husband (if only all partners were like this!), with your help, the right medicationand a goodtherapist I'm sure your wife will conquer her fears one day.


All the best.


Tracey

[crystalmom]

I agree with Tracey....with some meds, you, and therapy she can learn to overcome the more devestating aspects of this phobia.


Tell her about this site, and see if the two of you can do this together. If only all spouses/partners were so concerned and loving!!!


Crystal