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Cyberchondria is also known as Compucondria, which is the Accelerated Anxiety-Neurosis Syndrome based on the review of the search results and available literature online, primarily related to health issues. Cyberchondria is surely a growing concern, as now anyone can research all of their symptoms online for any illness. There been a rise of cyberchondriacs during the COVID-19 crisis primarily due to: – Restricted face-to-face interactions in COVID times – Requirement to spend more time at home due to COVID restrictions
People with depression and anxiety are more likely to experience Cyberchondria. First-time mothers are more prone. It is more likely to affect the younger population. Also prevalent in people whose loved one has passed away. Signs to know if you are cyberchondriac: – You check health information website to get relief from anxiety – The time you spend checking health symptoms online is interfering with your life – You seek reassurance from the people in chat rooms or on social networks – You see your doctor more than your friends
A fixation or even obsession over being sick can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy. It generally leads to higher degrees of stress, which in turn can cause elevated blood pressure, headache, muscle tension and a weekend immunity system.
Cyberchondria is positively associated with health anxiety and Obsessive Impulsive Neurosis. It produces more health worries/ issues and impulsive behaviours. There are plenty of online services available to counter cyberchondria like Medlive Plus (overall health information), DailyMed (drug information), Mayoclinic and John Hopkins (medical procedures), NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (dietary supplements).
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often effective in treatment. You should also, – Schedule routine check-up with your healthcare provider – Live a healthy lifestyle – Practice meditation to reduce anxiety – Limit your online search – Arrange meetings with the counsellor – Check-in with your mental health
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