Why You Avoid the Doctor: Medical Anxiety, ADHD and Trauma

What if you’re not avoiding the doctor because you don’t care, but because fear, trauma, or overwhelm makes the appointment feel impossible?In this episode of Wired and Worthy, Dr. Amelia Kelley and Dr. Amna Shabir explore medical anxiety, healthcare avoidance, and why neurodivergent and highly sensitive people may struggle to seek care. They discuss the difference between fearing a diagnosis and fearing the procedure itself, the impact of cognitive overload, and how trauma-informed care can help patients feel safer.They also share practical ways to reduce anxiety, advocate for yourself, rebuild trust with healthcare providers, and treat preventive care as an important form of self-care.Key Takeaways:Medical anxiety may come from fear of the diagnosis, the procedure, past trauma, or an overwhelming healthcare system.ADHD and cognitive overload can make scheduling and attending appointments much harder.Understanding each step of a procedure can reduce fear and avoidance.Trauma-informed care should prioritise trust, communication, choice, and autonomy.Believing your symptoms and seeking help are acts of self-care—not weakness.About the guest:Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, is a dual board-certified physician, TEDx speaker, and certified health and wellness coach. With advanced training in integrative well-being, performance, and leadership development, she helps high achievers navigate perfectionism, workplace stress, and burnout. Through speaking, coaching, and consulting, she supports individuals and organisations in creating healthier, more sustainable approaches to success.Connect with Dr. Amna ShabbirWebsite: https://dramnashabbir.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amnashabbir/Listen to her podcast: https://dramnashabbir.com/podcasts/success-reimagined-with-amna-shabbir-md-exploring-the-crossroads-of-ambition-and-wellness/ Take her quiz: https://www.dramnashabbir.com/quiz Connect with Dr. Amelia Kelley:🌍 Website: https://www.ameliakelley.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drameliakelley/👩🏼‍💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drameliakelley/