Faulty GPs - a succession of them, four to be precise - ruined my childhood and affected my life (in terms of academic stuff that I didn't get the option on, unpleasant experiences I had to put up with, etc) to this day. Also, I still jump in terror when the doorbell goes - something related to aforementioned faulty GPs. I am now nearly 40. Which is why I want to heave everytime I see something or someone suggest "if you're worried, have a chat with your GP" - yeah, those all knowing avatars of wisdom and compassion in white coats. Please note I'm not saying there are no good GPs - there obviously are, but it is by no means 100%, or in my experience even 90%, of them. Sorry for the rant - hope the... erm, manly part gets better soon, and yeah - lose the beard, if you THINK it makes you look old, you're reaffirming a load of negative thoughts you just don't need.