Hypochondria — Symptoms & Treatment

It is not uncommon for someone with hypochondria to believe they have a devastating illness or they are in great risk of catching one. They can also go into a state of panic from simple bodily reactions or minor sensations like headaches believing that they are already implications of serious health conditions. Even after checkups and medical tests reveal there isn’t a serious illness, no doctor’s reassurance can ease their distress, causing individuals with hypochondria to continue to doubt their wellbeing.

Hypochondria & OCD

Hypochondria shares some characteristics of OCD but it is important to note that they are separate conditions. Although fears around health are common obsessions for those with Health Concern Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, individuals with Hypochondria fear they have a disease. In addition, it is also possible for someone to be diagnosed with both OCD and hypochondria.

Treatment for Hypochondria

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is mainly used in anxiety treatment programs, is also an effective treatment for people diagnosed with hypochondria. CBT involves identifying the thoughts and emotions the patient experiences and the things the patient does to cope with those emotions. The aim of the CBT is to change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors that maintain hypochondria. Some patients may also benefit from a different psychological therapy, such as trauma-focused therapy. Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to help patients manage their symptoms.

Other Common OCD Sub-Types

It is not uncommon for an individual suffering from one OCD sub-type to also suffer from other sub-types. Treating co-occurring sub-types simultaneously is important in finding balance and healing from OCD.

Harm OCD
Homosexual (HOCD)
Pure O (Pure Obsessional OCD)
Relationship OCD
Sexual OCD

Other Common Anxiety Disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Post-Traumatic Disorder
Trichotillomania
Body Dysmorphic Disorder

It is not uncommon for an individual to suffer from multiple anxiety disorders. Treating co-occurring conditions simultaneously is important in finding balance and healing from anxiety.