Hi All,
my question is this:
How can I diagnose someone as a hypochondriac without letting on that I’m doing so? In other words, what sorts of signs should I look for and/or what kinds of subtle questions could I ask that might help me determine if I’m dealing with a hypo?
Cheers,
maltese chicken
Sounds like you’ve already decided it’s all in their heads.
If you ask what their problems are they will tell you readily. Then decide if you believe them. What other way could there be?
> Sounds like you’ve already decided it’s all in their heads.
I can see how it might seem that way from my post, but no, I haven’t made up my mind. If anything, I lean toward a non-hypo impression of this person. I’m just wondering if there are any trademark signs to look for. I hold this person in high regard and do not mean to cast doubt on their medical ills. It’s just that hypochondria might explain how this person ends up with a new problem about every month or so. For their own sake, I hope it is just in their head, but I doubt it.
Cheers,
maltese chicken
One of the hallmarks of hypochondria is that when the person learns of a new ailment, they tend to suspect that they have it. You might talk about a fictional new strain of flu going around, and see how this person reacts.
Of course, take that with a grain of salt, I am not qualified to give psychological or medical advice.
I haven’t read much about it, but I don’t get the impression that a diagnosis of hypochondria is easily settled upon. I think you’d have to test the person extensively to eliminate the possibility that they really do have the illnesses they think they have. Once you’ve determined that they’re physically healthy, then maybe you can conclude they have hypochondriasis.
But only a trained professional should be doing any diagnosing.
…
Well, okay, I’ve dug out my abnormal psych text. Here’s a rundown:
Definition-- A hypochondriac is someone who has a preoccupation with having a serious disease or greatly fears he will develop one. This isn’t the normal I-don’t-want-to-catch-the-flu type of concern; often their concerns are beyond the bounds of reality (example: fearing you will contract a STD when you’re not sexually active). The DSM-IV criteria is that it has to significantly impair or distress the person and last at least 6 months.
Current theory is that physiological characteristics may predispose people to developing hypochondria. Those who are more “closely attuned to their own physical sensations” (me= 
) are more likely to develop it. Also, actually having an illness may trigger the disorder, as the person becomes concerned about developing other health problems.
Anxiety and depression often accompanies hypochondriasis. No kidding.
Problem is, hypochondriacs tend to seek medical help first, and their delusions can inadvertently be encouraged by well-meaning doctors who agree to treat the “problem”. Doctor-switching is common.
Prevalence is estimated at 1%, but may be as high as 5%, as, like I mentioned, many hypochondriacs seek medical treatment over psychological treatment.
Then there’s a related disorder called medical student’s disease, where people will read about a certain disorder and start to see the symptoms if it in themselves. I think it’s what TheNerd was referring to.