SLBMI
Anxiety Disorders Center>> Anxiety Related Disorders
That We Treat>> Hypochondriasis
(Health Anxiety) and Somatization
Disorder
Hypochondriasis
(Health Anxiety)
Hypochondriasis
or Health Anxiety, is classified as one of the somatoform
disorders that includes somatization disorder and body
dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
The
core feature of hypochondriasis or health anxiety is
FEAR or IDEA of having a serious disease. The fear or
idea is based on the MISINTERPRETATION of bodily signs
and sensations as evidence of disease. This fear persists
despite appropriate medical evaluation and reassurance.
Symptoms
include:
- Preoccupying
fear of having a serious disease
- Preoccupation
that persists despite medical evaluation and reassurance.
- Belief
is not delusional
- Preoccupation
causes clinically significant distress or daily living
impairment.
- Preoccupation
lasts for at least 6 months.
- Preoccupation
is not explained by another mood, anxiety, or somatoform
disorder.
- Absent
physical findings, particularly with repeated examinations.
Somatization
Disorder
Somatization disorder is characterized by early onset
with recurrent, multiple, physical complaints that result
in medical attention or significant impairment. Somatization
disorder is distinguished from physical illness by the
involvement of multiple organ systems and prolonged
course without medical disease findings.
Onset
of somatization disorder may be earlier (<30 yrs
of age) than that of hypochondriasis. Women have a higher
lifetime risk of developing somatization disorder, at
2-3%, and the female-to-male ratio is 10:1. (Smith,
1991). Symptomatically, this disorder overlaps with
hypochondriasis. Somatization disorder is a patient’s
focus on symptoms primarily, rather than preoccupation
with possible illness and accompanying worry seen in
hypochondriasis.
Types
of Treatment:
Please know that we are here to help you.
Treatment for Hypochondriasis:
Now that you have read more about Hypochondriasis or Health Anxiety, the next step is to seek help.
Frequently, people are hesitant to make the first step. Please know that our Institute is nationally recognized and our clinicians are ready to work with you.
In order to receive help the first step is to contact our Intake Coordinator.
For our Macklind office call 314-534-0200.
For our West County office call 636-532-9188.
Our toll free number is 877-245-2688.
Our Intake Coordinator will match you to one of our clinicians who will evaluate your
concerns and make recommendations to you.
The first step is an important one and only you can place the call.
Remember, we are here to help you.
Your insurance coverage will also be reviewed by the intake coordinator.
Click here to contact the Anxiety Disorders Center
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