1. Hypochondriasis By Mirzha Mendez

2. Definitions Hypochondriasis -A somatoform disorder in which a person interprets normal physical sensations as a disease. -Characterized by symptoms suggesting psychological disorder but for which there are no demonstrable organic findings or known physiological mechanisms.

3. Associated Features The person… …becomes too focused on their health. …has an unrealistic fear of having a serious illness. …focuses on symptoms with a goal.

4. DSM-IV-TR Criteria  Idea that one has a serious disease based on misinterpreting normal body functions  According to the person the disease may persist despite what doctors say  The person may admit that he/she is exaggerating the symptoms.  The person may be experiencing something that is not a serious disease  The person does not recognize that the concern about a serious illness is excessive or unreasonable.

5. Etiology  Child abuse creates a vulnerability for the disorder whether it is sexual or physical.  Watching someone die with a serious disease at a young age.

6. Prevalence  1 to 5 percent of the population have this disorder.  Age and gender are inconsistent.  It is common to find other disorders on people with hypochondriasis Anxiety Depression Other somatoform Disorders

7. Treatment  Having a supportive relationship with a health- care provider, and it should only be one.  Mental healthcare provider with experience in this disorder.  Psychotherapy  Cognitive therapy (CBT)  Medication such as serotonin.  Used to help modulate mood, emotion, sleep and appetite.

8. Prognosis  It could be long term and chronic if it is not treated.  Person may become dependent on pain relievers or sedatives.  Lost times from work.  In extreme cases the person may become completely invalid.

9. References Halgin, R.P. Whitbain, S.K. (2005). Abnormal psychology: clinical perspectives on psychological disorders. Ney York, NY: Mc Grow Hill. Myers, D.G. (2011). Meyer psychology for AP. New York: Worth Publishers. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-IV-TR. (4th ed.). (2000). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association. Hypochondria - PubMed Health. (n.d.). National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved May 5, 2011, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p

10. Discussion Question How do you think you would react if you find out someone you love had hypochondriasis? How would you approach the situation?