Triggering (SI) - Anyone got any experience of hypochondria?

Stage Star · 13-06-2010, 07:53 PM

Hello. I was diagnosed with hypochondria about 4 months ago. In basic terms it's a form of anxiety which makes me believe I am dying of serious diseases, when I am perfectly healthy. At the same time, I was also diagnosed with depression. I finished therapy about a month and a half ago I think and am finding it hard. I have been in a relapse for about a month. Things aren't as bad as they were before the therapy, but it's certainly deliberating.
I was just wondering if anyone else can relate to this particular anxiety disorder. I am finding it really hard and have started slipping back into my old self-harming ways again. I don't cut badly, but I find having something physical wrong with me distracts me from thinking that I am sick in other ways... if that makes any sense at all.
Thank you.

Whispered Secret · 13-06-2010, 08:02 PM

I think a lot of people have mild symptoms of hypochondria at times. People will always hear there is a bug going around and then think that they have it. But obviously for you it is a lot more serious. I've never really struggled with it, but I can understand why you'd replace thinking you're sick in other ways with physical problems. Like people get rid of other thing in their minds that are distressing them (like abuse) through self harm at times. I'm sorry things are tough for you. Maybe go back and see your doctor and just say that things are still tough? xx

Stellata · 13-06-2010, 08:14 PM

Before I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, I was told I had 'cancer phobia'. So, yes, I have experience with hypochondria, although it was more of a delusional state. I was actually depressed at the time, but didn't let anyone in enough to figure that out.
In my case, I was being 'ate up inside' by emotions that were bigger than me and out of control, and under a great deal of stress but stuffing it all away inside.