Hypochondriac
Hypochondriac
Hypochondriac (pronunciation: /ˌhīpəˈkändrēˌak/) is a term used to describe a person who is excessively worried about having a serious illness, despite having no or only minor symptoms. This condition is also known as Illness anxiety disorder or Health anxiety.
Etymology
The term "hypochondriac" comes from the Greek words "hypo" meaning "under" and "chondros" meaning "cartilage (of the sternum)". In ancient times, it was believed that this area of the body was the source of melancholy and anxiety.
Definition
A hypochondriac is an individual who lives with the fear that they have a serious, but undiagnosed medical condition, even though diagnostic tests show there is no pathology. They are often preoccupied with their physical health and they may become distressed over minor ailments or normal bodily functions, interpreting them as signs of a serious illness.
Related Terms
- Somatization disorder: This is a mental disorder characterized by recurring, multiple, and current, clinically significant complaints about somatic symptoms.
- Munchausen syndrome: A psychiatric factitious disorder wherein those affected feign disease, illness, or psychological trauma to draw attention, sympathy, or reassurance to themselves.
- Anxiety disorder: A group of mental disorders characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear.
- Psychosomatic illness: A disease which involves both mind and body. Some physical diseases are thought to be particularly prone to be made worse by mental factors such as stress and anxiety.
Treatment
Treatment for hypochondria, also known as Illness anxiety disorder, most often includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people to understand and change thought patterns that lead to maladaptive behaviors and emotions. Medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, can also be used to help manage symptoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypochondriac
- Wikipedia's article - Hypochondriac
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