I always think I’m sick: what’s wrong with me?

Feeling that we are sick at all times – after having gone to the specialist – or believing that we are at risk of getting sick is a possible indication of psychological problems. In this situation, there are different alternatives that you can consider.

I often think I’m sick, and I don’t know why

In many ways, as a species, we are very vulnerable. Therefore, it is normal to think about our health to a certain extent and maintain habits such as exercising or eating healthy. However, there are people who develop an abnormal concern about their health, which can have several causes.

In these cases, ideas about health interfere with the patients’ quality of life. They may stop socializing for fear of catching a dangerous disease, even when it is unlikely. Likewise, they could have problems at work, in relationships and, in general, with their quality of life.

The phrase “I always think I’m sick” is accompanied by feelings, such as fear and anguish, that become part of everyday life. In the long term, the constant state of stress can end up causing severe conditions. So, what is the reason for this concern?

Hypochondriacal delusion

Delusional disorder is a psychological disorder characterized by the presence of one or more delusional beliefs.. By delusion, we mean an idea that alters the way we perceive the world and ourselves. This perception cannot be modified, even when contrary evidence is presented.

Within this group, several subtypes are distinguished, among them is hypochondriacal delirium. It is distinguished because those who suffer from it live with the delusional conviction that they suffer from some serious problem.. Often, these people undergo medical tests and even if the results are normal, they remain convinced of their illness. In some cases, they may take medication or undergo invasive medical procedures.

On the other hand, with the amount of content on the Internet, People with this symptom tend to look for diagnoses on the Internet. A study by Eichenberg and Schott (2019) showed that those with hypochondria often use the internet to search for health information. Additionally, they consider alternatives, such as buying over-the-counter drugs online and changing doctors more frequently.

Illness anxiety

Thinking “I always think I’m sick” can be related to illness anxiety. Patients who suffer from it experience excessive and disproportionate concern about their health. In their mind they are at high risk of contracting a severe illness or they may believe that they already suffer from it. In this way, they develop different behaviors, such as constantly checking their body and avoiding visits to the doctor.

Illness anxiety manifests itself even without any physical symptoms which could be a sign of alarm. When there are any real symptoms, they are usually mild and the worry the patient feels is disproportionate.

Unlike patients with hypochondriac delirium, delusional behavior is not observed here. Therefore, the person can consider the possibility of not being sick and his concerns are more adjusted. Contrary to hypochondriacal delusion, which could lead a person to believe that their liver is rotting.

Depression

The belief of always being sick could be related to some unconscious emotional discomfort – partially or totally. Evidence indicates that patients with depression often go to health services with complaints of physical discomfort.

Thus, the depressed mood is hidden under various symptoms, pain being one of the most common. In these cases, it can be difficult to diagnose depression appropriately (Artiles and López, 2009).

What can I do if I always think I’m sick?

When concerns about physical health begin to affect our quality of life, it is time to take action. It is best to go to a psychologist, psychiatrist or psychotherapist who can evaluate the situation and give a diagnosis..

From there, there are several options that can be taken, depending on the problem. For example, in the case of hypochondriacal symptoms, acceptance and commitment therapy could be a good alternative. Iri et al. (2019) published a work on the effects of said therapy in divorced women with hypochondria. The results show that this therapy reduces the symptoms of hypochondria and improves emotional regulation.

If it is a depressive condition, the intervention will depend on the severity of the condition. In major episodes, a regimen of antidepressants to elevate mood in conjunction with psychotherapy is recommended. While, in mild episodes, psychological therapy may be a sufficient intervention.

Finally, it is necessary to emphasize that, just as it is important to take care of our physical health, it is also important to take care of our emotions. If you identify with the phrase “I always think I’m sick”, going to a specialist will be a good idea. Don’t forget that emotional discomfort can be equally or even more disabling. than an organic disease.

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