Hi SJ. Welcome! I can relate to so much of what you say here. I have a lot of the same anxieties you mention, and several more besides. And, like you, my anxieties go way back to my early childhood.

I guess one of the first things I want to say is that there is no need to feel embarrassed about mentioning your anxiety issues to your doctor. Anxiety is incredibly common and your doctor will be well-used to hearing his patients broach this subject. There is help available for Anxiety Disorders and certain types of therapy have proven to be very successful for many people. If left untreated, Anxiety Disorders can get very severe so I would really recommend you consider some professional help. Your doc could refer you to a therapist, for example. Again, please don't let embarrassment prevent you from getting the support you need. It's great you're reaching out here and I really hope you're able to reach out in real life too

Wishing you all the very best (((((SJ))))) Let us know how you're doing!