Managing Health Anxiety: Therapy vs. Medication for Recovery

Q: Managing Health Anxiety: Therapy vs. Medication for Recovery

Hello： Of course, there is a chance of recovery with psychotherapy alone. <br>Research shows that the effects of psychotherapy tend to last longer after treatment compared to medication alone. <br>However, if the condition is more severe, it is advisable to consider a combination

Feeling very anxious?

Hello, doctor.
I often feel anxious about my health and am very tense, deeply fearing serious illnesses.
Recently, I visited a doctor for sinusitis, and although the doctor performed an endoscopic examination and only mentioned that there was a lot of mucus, I panicked when I saw the diagnosis included terms like nasal bleeding and bronchitis.
I keep imagining whether it will get worse, and I am very scared.
I have had these symptoms for a while and have seen a psychologist.
The psychologist believes that my situation is not that severe and that I should start adjusting my life (developing interests, exercising, etc.).
The psychologist also mentioned that if I feel very troubled, I can make an appointment to talk to her anytime, but she does not recommend that I start medication right away (possibly because I want to conceive in six months, but I'm not sure).
Later, I found a counselor and have only seen her once so far, at a rate of 2000 per session.
I feel that she has deeply identified the issues I am facing.
I would like to ask the doctor if relying solely on counseling could help restore my mood, or if it would be better for me to consider medication.
Thank you.

Na Na, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/03

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry

Hello: Of course, there is a chance of recovery with psychotherapy alone.
Research shows that the effects of psychotherapy tend to last longer after treatment compared to medication alone.
However, if the condition is more severe, it is advisable to consider a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
The key to successful psychotherapy is diligently practicing the homework assigned by the therapist.
As for whether you need combined treatment, it is recommended that you have a detailed discussion with your outpatient physician, explaining your treatment goals and concerns.
The physician will tailor a detailed treatment plan for you.

Reply Date: 2018/07/03

More Info

Managing health anxiety can be a challenging journey, especially when it intertwines with physical symptoms and fears of serious illness. Your experience with health anxiety, particularly in relation to your recent diagnosis of sinusitis and the subsequent panic about potential complications, is not uncommon. Many individuals find themselves in a cycle of worry that can exacerbate their physical symptoms, leading to a heightened state of anxiety.

In addressing your question about whether therapy alone can help you recover or if medication is necessary, it’s essential to understand the nuances of both approaches. Research has shown that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders, including health anxiety. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It equips individuals with coping strategies and skills to manage their anxiety more effectively. Many people have found significant relief through therapy alone, especially when they actively engage in the process and practice the techniques learned during sessions.

Your therapist's recommendation to focus on lifestyle adjustments, such as cultivating interests and engaging in physical activity, is also a valuable approach. Regular exercise, for instance, has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and improve overall mental health. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help ground you in the present moment, reducing the tendency to ruminate on health fears.

However, it’s also important to recognize that some individuals may benefit from medication, especially if their anxiety is severe or persistent. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. If you are considering pregnancy in the near future, it’s crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider, as they can help you weigh the benefits and risks of medication during this time.

Given your situation, it may be beneficial to maintain open communication with both your therapist and your primary care physician. If you find that therapy alone is not providing the relief you need, or if your anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life, it might be worth exploring medication options. Your healthcare provider can help you navigate this decision, taking into account your health history, current symptoms, and future plans regarding pregnancy.

In summary, both therapy and medication can be effective in managing health anxiety, and the best approach often depends on individual circumstances. Engaging actively in therapy, practicing self-care, and maintaining open lines of communication with your healthcare providers will empower you to make informed decisions about your mental health. Remember, recovery is a process, and it’s okay to seek help and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

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