Suggest Treatment For Severe Hypochondria

Posted on Mon, 18 May 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 18 May 2015 Answered on

Thu, 4 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have severe hypocandria. What can I do about it other than take drugs. I tried some meditation, but I have trouble with that as well. I have moments where I can not move because I become so consumed by fear. It last for a few hours and then subsides, but it will linger until I go to my doctor for whatever I think I may have. Need something that I can do to end this.

Answered by Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Psychotherapy is another option

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX
Thanks for using healthcaremagic.

I understand that hypochondriasis is severely disabling disorder and it becomes difficult to manage without required help.

Medicines are one part of treatment but psychotherapy is more useful in regard to permanency of positive effect as well as overall effect.
The most useful psychotherapy for hypochondriasis is cognitive behaviour therapy.
In my view locate a psychotherapist who specializes in cognitive behaviour therapy and have required sessions with her/him. Generally there is need of 12 to 20 sessions of one hour duration to have required outcome.

I hope this answers your question.
if you have more questions feel free to write back to me.
Thanks and regards.
Dr Ashok Kumar

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E