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Headache

Discussion in 'General Discussion Subforum' started by WantOhealHeadache, Sep 19, 2024.

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  1. WantOhealHeadache

    WantOhealHeadache Newcomer

    I already made this post, but I forgot to translate it, so I’m reposting it.

    Hello everyone, I am 22 years old and I have been suffering from TMS for about 3 years. My main symptom, and the one that worries me the most, is chronic tension headaches. They have become so debilitating that I can no longer concentrate on anything. Fortunately, I discovered the concept of TMS about a month ago (I’ve lost track of time because I’m experiencing derealization).

    I read Dr. Sarno’s book, *The Mindbody Prescription*, but it was quite difficult because the headaches make it hard to concentrate! I also watched a few videos on YouTube, and I am determined to heal without the help of a psychotherapist (I had consulted several therapists before, but for personal reasons, I want to do it on my own). I am sure I will get there one day. After a long medical journey, I fully accept the TMS process, and I know this is what I am dealing with.

    Headaches are not my only symptoms. I also suffer from:

    - Frequent urination (I constantly feel the need to urinate. My bladder is only relieved while I’m urinating, and after 20 seconds, the urge returns. I couldn't sleep last night because of it...)

    - Digestive issues (GERD)

    - Tinnitus

    - Derealization and depersonalization

    - Neck pain (which triggers the headaches)

    - And, of course, depression

    I realized I had TMS about a month ago, but I feel like I’m making very slow progress. I keep procrastinating and find it difficult to apply what I’ve learned.

    I’ve noticed that since acknowledging my TMS and starting journaling, my pain has increased! Does this mean my emotions are about to surface into my consciousness? Honestly, I haven't really felt my emotions during journaling, so I’m a bit confused.

    Are there other methods besides journaling? Could you list as many as possible so I can see what might work best for me?

    Thank you, I look forward to reading your responses!
     
    WantOhealHeadache, Sep 19, 2024
    #1
  2. JanAtheCPA

    JanAtheCPA Beloved Grand Eagle

    First, @WantOhealHeadache, if you would like to change your username to something more neutral, instead of a negative name that focuses on your symptom and your fear, now is the time to send me a PM ("Private Conversation") and change it. This is a limited time offer! It can't be changed if you stick around and receive too many responses that use the original name (like I have done) because it gets too confusing for everyone.

    Here is a super-quick list of beginner's resources that I have copied and pasted from elsewhere, and yes, I realize that you've already read a book by Dr. Sarno (but others might find this useful if they are keyword-searching the internet and find this post). I suggest that you take the ACEs quiz, and then you'll probably want to address anxiety and start doing the SEP (Structured Educational Program):

    The main website associated with our forum is at https://www.tmswiki.org (The Tension Myositis Syndrome Wiki), inspired by the ideas of John E Sarno, MD.

    To learn more about TMS we believe that it is essential to first read one of Dr Sarno's books. Here is a short biography and bibliography: https://www.tmswiki.org/ppd/John_E._Sarno,_MD (John E. Sarno, MD) Many public and school libraries carry his books, and they are readily available as used copies as well as audio and e-book formats.

    There are two easy and anonymous self-assessment tests that we recommend:
    1) https://ppdassociation.org/ppd-self-questionnaire (Self Quiz — Psychophysiologic Disorders Association) from the PPD Association (the professional group of mindbody/TMS doctors, therapists and other practitioners)
    2) https://www.tmswiki.org/forum/threads/aces-quiz-online-printable-versions.27061 (ACEs "quiz" - online & printable versions) (this is a forum post which describes and links to the well-regarded ACEs test for childhood experiences).

    Anxiety is a common TMS symptom, and needs to be addressed directly as part of the recovery process. Resources by Dr. Claire Weekes are very effective in dealing with anxiety. You can find more here: https://www.tmswiki.org/ppd/Overcome_Anxiety_with_Dr._Claire_Weekes (Overcome Anxiety with Dr. Claire Weekes) or read her seminal book "Hope & Help For Your Nerves" which is also readily available in multiple formats.

    The TMS Wiki has a free online program which does not require any kind of registration and is accessed via easily managed modules: https://www.tmswiki.org/ppd/Structured_Educational_Program (Structured Educational Program)
     
    JanAtheCPA, Sep 19, 2024
    #2

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