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Hypochondriasis is somewhat similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder, because of the obsession with illness and the compulsion to do something to lessen their anxiety. An estimated 75 - 85% of people who have hypochondriasis also have anxiety, depression, or another mental disorder. Stressful life situations may overwhelm a person and contribute to the development of generalized anxiety. Normal chemicals in the brain help your brain do its job. Some major life changes include moving, changing jobs or schools, divorce, or marriage. Group therapy, behavior modification, and cognitive therapy have been reported to work particularly well. Medicines -Antidepressant or anti-anxiety drugs are sometimes used if a person with hypochondriasis also has a mood disorder or anxiety disorder. Behavioral-stress management therapy teaches stress management and relaxation techniques to help people avoid becoming focused on illness during stressful situations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches people to concentrate less on thoughts and fears of illness and to use relaxation and distraction techniques.
Causes of Hypochondriasis
Common Causes and Risk factors of Hypochondriasis
- Stress.
- Neurochemical deficits.
- Physical abuse.
- A poor ability to express emotions
- Insurmountable and insolvable problems.
Signs and Symptoms of Hypochondriasis
Common Sign and Symptoms of Hypochondriasis
- Anxiety.
- Difficulty maintaining a job, keeping relationships.
- Preoccupation with fear of illness
- Disturbance lasting for at least 6 months.
- Numerous complaints about pain.
Treatment for Hypochondriasis
Common Treatment for Hypochondriasis
- Group therapy, behavior modification, and cognitive therapy have been reported to work particularly well.
- Medicines -Antidepressant or anti-anxiety drugs are sometimes used if a person with hypochondriasis also has a mood disorder or anxiety disorder.
- Behavioral-stress management therapy teaches stress management and relaxation techniques to help people avoid becoming focused on illness during stressful situations.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches people to concentrate less on thoughts and fears of illness and to use relaxation and distraction techniques.
- Probiotics, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, to help decrease bowel symptoms.
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drink at least eight glasses of water each day to reduce constipation and other gastrointestinal complaints.
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