Hypochondriasis, the fear of getting sick, can be overcome by realizing the problem, developing healthy habits, scheduling necessary medical exams, and seeking help from medical professionals or a psychologist if needed. Avoid researching medical conditions and focus on rational arguments.
While it’s not always easy to overcome your fear of illness, it can be done. Hypochondriasis, the medical name for the fear of getting sick, often causes a person to worry excessively and obsessively about developing an illness. The problem may cause the hypochondriac to constantly visit the doctors or be so embarrassed that he is afraid of the disease, that he may avoid necessary visits to the doctors. If you have a fear of getting sick and it is negatively affecting your life, you may be able to overcome this fear by applying some simple, but important, steps.
First, you need to realize you have a problem. Research hypochondriasis and how to overcome it. One thing you should refrain from doing is researching different medical conditions and diseases. This activity is likely to make the hypochondriac imagine that he or she has a serious illness, no matter how rare the illness may be. An important thing to do is to inquire with your general practitioner, or other source, the list of tests and tests that you should have had; you can then write the dates into your calendar and focus on these as proper ways to monitor your health.
Secondly, develop healthy eating habits and physical activity. Rather than constantly checking yourself for symptoms of the disease, create a healthy lifestyle plan to help you actually avoid many of the risks associated with the disease. Knowing that you are eating healthier foods can at least partially ease your mind about the fear of illness. Consider engaging in healthy fitness activities. Engaging in a new sport you love can not only give you greater peace of mind knowing you’re reducing your risk of disease by being fit, but it can also help you enjoy life more.
Third, as you try to meet your schedule of necessary medical exams and tests, write down any questions you have before you go. This way you can focus on rational arguments rather than irrational fears. Try to find understanding medical professionals. Communicate that you are afraid of the disease, but are trying to overcome the problem.
Chances are, if you confess that you’re trying to get over the hypochondriac, the doctors will be much more willing to keep you apprised of your health so you don’t worry unnecessarily. If you spend a few months trying to overcome your hypochondriasis, but it doesn’t seem to be showing any improvement, then you should ask your doctor for referral to a psychologist. Seek out a psychologist who is experienced in treating people with health phobias such as a fear of illness.
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