I am a worrier. In any situation, my mind usually thinks of all the things that could go wrong. I worry about my family, my friends, my dog, my own life, and the future; so, to sum it up, I worry about almost everything. Worrying takes up a lot of my energy. I wish I was able to control it, but so far, I’ve been unsuccessful at that. However, I am getting better at it.
My grandmother was admitted to the hospital today. The doctors ruled out a stroke, but they still don’t know what’s wrong with her. They admitted her to the ICU; she is not in critical condition, they just felt that they could monitor her better there. When I first found out, I was thinking that I should fly home so I could be there with her, for my benefit, not hers. Luckily, I was able to talk myself down into thinking reasonably. I know that my mom would let me know if I needed to come home.
Feeling concerned about someone or something is one thing, but obsessive worrying is taking it too far. Most of the emotions I feel are to the extreme; I need to learn to find balance. I didn’t call my mom 10 times today to see how things were going. I called one and sent a couple of text messages. I’m learning how to handle my emotions and conduct myself in difficult situations. My first reaction is never the right or appropriate one, but, with a lot of work, I can talk myself through rough circumstances.
My Side of the Pole 
I’m sorry to hear about your grandmother. I know all too well what it’s like to be across the country and not be able to be there for your loved ones. Great job on controlling your actions, too. I feel everything to the extreme, as well, and when you add stress to that mix, it can be very bad. Hope she gets better soon! Sending love and light from Missouri!
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Thanks for the support and positive thoughts. It’s very much appreciated
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Sorry about the stress you are going through. Family illness sucks.
I don’t know about everyone, that would be a big statement for me to make, but I do know many many people from all walks of life and at all stages of mental health (according to themselves and others) have first reactions that are extreme. I don’t think there is such a thing as a “right” or appropriate initial reaction. People react differently based on all kinds of things including their history, where they are at the moment, what the news is, their fears, their hopes, etc. As you’ve realized, staying in the extreme can be self-destructive but reacting and recognizing it (IMHO) is human.
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Very true. I’m trying to work on my managing my reactions for all situations. I may not be able to handle my initial reaction, but I can work on what I do after the initial reaction.
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