Coping with fear and embarrassment of shock

Hello all,

I am new to this forum and and desperatley in need of advice. I had my device implanted about 5 years ago. I have been shocked probably about 5 or 6 times since then. I get terribly embarrassed when this happens and then I have fear of it happening again after. I have been cleared to be active but I cannot get the thought of the ICD out of the back of my mind. I love to play softball and have my own team. I was doing great this year as far as dealing with the fear of being shocked. But then the other day I got shocked, the technician said that I was in no danger and it shouldnt have gone off. Every time I get shocked I go through a stage of depression and fear. Any thoughts on how to get past it?

3 Comments

embarrassment

by Tracey_E - 2009-05-19 12:05:38

Did they say why it went off this last time? If it's settings, they should be able to fix it so it doesn't happen again.

I totally get the fear part but I'm a bit puzzled by why you'd be embarrassed. It's out of your control, so what's to be embarrassed about? Especially knowing it can save your life. No one likes to be the center of attention, but it's not in your control and not your fault, so there's nothing to feel bad about.

hey Rhino

by walkerd - 2009-05-20 06:05:57

nothing at all to be imbarrassed about still being alive. Just your little emt looking out for you. Now if it shocked you and shouldnt have be a pain in thier butt and make them fix it like already said they should be able to adjust it. Never feel embarrassed about being alive. The device is there to save us. Being scared about it well that is normal. I like patches first one watch out the Reaper didnt get me. hahahahhaha.
hang in there
dave

Thanks

by rhino64 - 2009-05-20 08:05:22

I did go to the doctor, the day after and they adjusted the settings. I haven't played since then tho. I am still terrified. How do we get pased that fear???

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