Hypochondriacs: When Health Anxiety Becomes Unhealthy (Mental Health Documentary) | Only Human |

Single mum Laura is constantly searching for symptoms of cancer on the internet since her father died from a brain tumour, and Kevin can't stop obsessing over the fear of HIV since he had a blood transfusion. Following a group of patients suffering from hypochondria, also known as health anxiety disorder, this documentary takes a close and honest look at this disabling condition. See how Laura, Kevin, and the other hypochondriacs progress and overcome their anxieties through therapy.
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[@Crystal.Olivia1]

I am Laura from this documentary. I am now around 13 years on from this now... At the time mental health was not openly talked of, I felt alone and no one to turn to. Waiting list for CBT / councilling at the time was 4 months and I was in such a deep hole I knew no way out. I joined a chat room called “no panic” and saw an advert for a documentary of which if chose would receive full CBT therapy. Of course, not after attention, I just wanted to get better and if it meant treatment ASAP I was desperate and took it. It was the best thing I ever did. I had the best support of channel 4, the team at “only Human” - best therapy off one of the UKs leading therapists. I walked away having learnt to face my fears, challenge myself... and now 13 years on, yeah I still have bouts of anxiety at times. Only had around 2 panic attacks in 13 years - I know how to love with anxiety... Anyone suffering please do message me. I can say this. Accept you have anxiety. Don’t fight it say to yourself “yep here you are again / ride with it. It will pass and yes I realise - anxiety causes physical symptoms. Which then creates vicious circle you can’t snap out of,,, ride with it... the anxiety will pass and thoughts will get better... I look back now and can’t believe how bad I actually was... I was obsessed . Yes I get thoughts time to time , but fill life with other things, breathe and smell the air outside. Take in nature, take up new hobbies, see friends, listen to music - distract ! I had far too much time on my hands back then being a single mother. I’m Here if anyone struggling would like to get in touch. And all those with negativity or so support to people suffering with a mental health issue shame on you.

[@bcooper7618]

Actually if i compare myself to people in this documentary i think i must be severe case because i am far more obsessed than alot of situations. Actually i thought it uncanny about your fear of getting your heart rate up.. thats me as well.

[@C1929]

Well done laura! What an amazing thing you have achieved. You should be so proud of yourself, these conditions can be hugely challenging and it sounds like you’ve come a very long way. And thank you for being so generous as to share your story. Anxiety and panic are nothing but a trick, and you spreading this message will help a lot of people. I wish you all the best!

[@thatsplenty19]

if your going to go, no amout of worrying will help. glad your well but people like you take to much of nhs time

[@bcooper7618]

@@thatsplenty19 Firstly you assume people chose to be like this. I wouldnt wish it upon my own worse enemy. Mental health is just as debilitating as any physical illness in some cases it worse because of people with attitudes like yourself who simply say "get over it" like its something that can be done with the click of fingers. Not all people who suffer this form of mental illness go to the doctor btw. Alot are actually petrified of hospitals and doctors. Id tell you to get over your ignorance but like health anxiety its not easy to get rid of something so ingrained.

[@floralarrangements5919]

Glad your doing better

[@zahavah7177]

Don’t underestimate the power of the mind, it feels so real

[@MarkSkids]

So deep.

[@lucyalexandra.]

you said it :(

[@Teenywing]

Don’t underestimate the power of therapy and willingness to get better either ♥️♥️

[@paulaelectrabrandqvist8795]

Its not only feels real , it is real .

[@jessvision8817]

Being a hypochondriac myself, this video really speaks to me. The constant different diseases you think you have, but feel stupid for thinking, but you are terrified of. It's really difficult.

[@paulaelectrabrandqvist8795]

True 😭😭😭😭😭

[@DrUniverso]

i feel you sister, watching videos about hypocondria has helped me to deal with it, and also stoped searching for diseases symptoms on the iternet

[@Crystal.Olivia1]

I am Laura from this documentary. I am now around 13 years on from this now... At the time mental health was not openly talked of, I felt alone and no one to turn to. Waiting list for CBT / councilling at the time was 4 months and I was in such a deep hole I knew no way out. I joined a chat room called “no panic” and saw an advert for a documentary of which if chose would receive full CBT therapy. Of course, not after attention, I just wanted to get better and if it meant treatment ASAP I was desperate and took it. It was the best thing I ever did. I had the best support of channel 4, the team at “only Human” - best therapy off one of the UKs leading therapists. I walked away having learnt to face my fears, challenge myself... and now 13 years on, yeah I still have bouts of anxiety at times. Only had around 2 panic attacks in 13 years - I know how to love with anxiety... Anyone suffering please do message me. I can say this. Accept you have anxiety. Don’t fight it say to yourself “yep here you are again / ride with it. It will pass and yes I realise - anxiety causes physical symptoms. Which then creates vicious circle you can’t snap out of,,, ride with it... the anxiety will pass and thoughts will get better... I look back now and can’t believe how bad I actually was... I was obsessed . Yes I get thoughts time to time , but fill life with other things, breathe and smell the air outside. Take in nature, take up new hobbies, see friends, listen to music - distract ! I had far too much time on my hands back then being a single mother. I’m Here if anyone struggling would like to get in touch. And all those with negativity or so support to people suffering with a mental health issue shame on you.

[@thegreekstatue4503]

If I have gas pains I convince myself it's colon cancer... It just makes me feel ridiculous and mentally drained.

[@hellsbells2028]

Please get help and take back control. It's must be an awful way to live

[@gemmi1]

My friends daughter was 'paralysed' for a while, collapsed and blacked out, and even had real seizures. All because of anxiety. The physical symptoms ARE real but it's the mind causing them not the body. It's about accepting that or you can't move on.

[@paulaelectrabrandqvist8795]

True , i suffer from this and the symptoms they are real and do exist . I can't even walk sometimes its awful living with this😭😭😭😭😭

[@JacksonBegleymusicguy]

I think another problem is hypersensitivity. Normal people can get little aches, twitches or whatever, and move on without a second thought. Someone with health anxiety may interpret a simple scratch as a warning sign of something far more sinister, because they're hypersensitive to their own body.

[@amybaker2179]

This is true I have this and once thought I was going blind I couldn’t even see out of my eyes and they sent me to a specialist hospital and told me it was all anxiety. Now my eyes are fine...

[@hellsbells2028]

I used to pass out alot and only when my stress and anxiety levels were through the roof. I think it was all down to anxiety and my brains way of trying to protect me. I had alot of unresolved trauma and I just wasn't ready or able to deal with it. The minds a powerful thing.

[@queuing_jupiter535]

white_blood clipped_wings I have Functional neurological disorder, you should look it up. My symptoms are "in the mind" but it's all subconscious and I can be the happiest girl in the world yet slur my speach have back out and spontaneous blackouts. Some people have these symptoms and can recognise that it's linked to anxiety but people like me can't.

[@raphael8252]

It's ironic that hypochondria is worst than the feared disease itself.

[@anamamulashvili6311]

exactly!! like, even if you have that "monster" disease, it will probably not even be THAT horrible

[@leapingjoseph8462]

Raphael, so, so true.

[@katieroberts5141]

Absolutely!

[@TheUniqueHistoryChannel777]

I really relate to this. Having health anxiety is no joke and can really have a huge impact on your life. Plus add being a geromophobe as well.

[@whatshisname3304]

@Le Gallinacé germofóbico, miedo a los gérmenes.

[@whatshisname3304]

@Le Gallinacé eso es muy gracioso

[@ZenitsuKunn]

same

[@joliv9515]

Started crying in the first few minutes of this, it was like looking in a mirror

[@avaguavaa]

same! I’ve been struggling with this not knowing its an actual mental illness, then i looked it up and found this doc. I feel like Im not alone. My friends and family dont understand and think im too paranoid with my health or they’d worry with me and take me to hospital just to be sent back home coz theres nothing seriously wrong with me. Im still crying i paused the vid because few seconds in and already i relate 😂😭

[@laramaise5582]

ive just finished my 3month course of CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) my therapist was amazing. Health anxiety is real and its a horrible disorder that is often mocked or belittled.

[@petyabor5223]

Hello! How are you feeling now?

[@henrielliot9658]

People may find this comical but until you experience Hypochondriasis first hand and realise the sheer mental struggle and fear one has to live with every day of their lives. It is truly unbearable and absolutely debilitating to ones life.

[@dolce.luna08]

True. It feels like hell. I just want to feel normal.

[@JC.1829]

It has been affecting my life for years. It's a living hell. I feel dying everyday.

[@honeybunch5765]

Mental health problems are never comical. Anxiety is no joke, no matter what causes it. I get this, I never had issues with my health never thought of it even though I have had some problems since childhood. I was eventually diagnosed with PCOS, which caused my other minor health issues. As I got older the syndrome started making me really ill and I became diabetes in my 40's. So I started taking my syndrome very serious for the first time and for a while the possibilities of what might happen to me became so overwhelming, I became obsessed and extremely anxious. One day I just decided enough is enough, I can only do so much and there is no need to stress about something I do not have control over. It was so freeing, I am just living life and trying to enjoy it as much as possible. Anxiety can be treated successfully, life is too short to worry all the time it is unfair towards yourself.❤

[@maggiejones9367]

@@JC.1829 are you better? 😪

[@leapingjoseph8462]

@@honeybunch5765 , seems like you have conquered it. I try to think that way, but it does not work. I am constantly overwhelmned with fear of illness.

[@rosierosiecheeks768]

Some of the comments on here are quite harsh. The brain is the most powerful tool we own. And if it works against you that must be so scary. Who wants to be a grown woman crying her eye's out in bed complaining of a brain tumour. I wish people showed more compassion towards one another. I watched my dad pass away and it wasn't nice and it wasn't peaceful. I am also now petrified of dying although I know its a given.

[@ninavannimwegen6726]

Fish keepers Battersby thankyou for existing and im very sorry about your dad.

[@thatsplenty19]

open forum pipe down

[@floralarrangements5919]

@@thatsplenty19 are you actually even aware of how contradictory your comment is?

[@kieranbyrne6090]

My mum use to say "It's all In your head" when she were psychologically abusing her children, took 20 odd years for her to finally realise I no longer care! 28 now and have to/had to restart my entire future/planning because of the different way I were brought up (Slave) worked for I would say 18 years of my life for nothing! Now I see my doctor for REAL reasons, and not to escape the Psychological/damaging affects, PTSD hit and went! Life is hard: Please understand, but dragging people, calling them names and causing their life to be harder is the low form of so called 'Human'. Thank you ✌

[@AP-bo1if]

hypochondriac is a good "excuse" disease for doctors to write off a patient they can't figure out what's causing his/her ACTUAL physical problems. "it's just stress dear"

[@TessySega]

I’ve dealt with this since I was a child, im not crazy, but it really does control my life...

[@hellsbells2028]

Seek help and take back control.

[@caroltrudgill5564]

@@hellsbells2028 think it's not as that easy

[@hellsbells2028]

@@caroltrudgill5564 I know and appreciate that :)

[@caroltrudgill5564]

@@hellsbells2028 xxx

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

@@hellsbells2028 it takes courage to step forward and tell someone how you feel sometimes

[@lynette599]

The irony is that stress (caused by anxiety) is the CAUSE of many illnesses....

[@Arsenallozz]

So so true x

[@shinemendwoor]

STRESSING ABOUT STRESSING TOO MUCH

[@racheldemain1940]

The Girl who's Father died was grieving and hadn't gone through the process.

[@eduardvoinea1370]

As a hypochondriac myself, watching this relieves me a lot.

[@enjeej7849]

Same

[@adamhaaaq6113]

Same

[@smitaprabhu26]

Me too

[@sydniedesjarlais7917]

“This is the closest kevin has ever been to a real live gay man.” Best line in this video

[@kkaterina12]

Maybe he is gay himself and he can't accept it so he fear it so much.

[@rachaeljade7240]

@@kkaterina12 also a possibility.

[@ToND1Ne]

Smolbirb That’s a hoot, because when I first saw him, I thought he was gay. Then, they mentioned his wife.

[@DMWBN3]

ToND1Ne his wife?? Two words . . . . Phil Scofield.

[@DMWBN3]

Was awaiting the "why don't you try rubbing his balls?"

[@carolineclancy7989]

I can really relate to the power anxiety has in my life. I've been hospitalized for what I thought was a heart attack and discovered it was a panic attack. I know how powerful anxiety is and found this documentary very reassuring.

[@ebru7581]

same here ! :(

[@danielgrieson5322]

Same but I’m still convinced it was a heart attack 😞

[@belindathomas7430]

Yea, same

[@DunkNat]

I had terrible anxiety and thought my teeth were falling out. It was the worst feeling. The fear was unbearable. Poor people. It will get better 🌹🌸🥀🌷⚘🌻🌼

[@elainem3102]

That's a big worry for me too. I check them and count them a few times a day 😥

[@tulips91]

I keep coming back to this video every time my anxiety hits so bad. Prayers for us all to get better eventually.

[@Sammygirl1231]

When I was in nursing school the stress was so bad that I developed conversion disorder and was falling down. Conversion disorder is where you have physical symptoms of an illness but you don't actually have that illness its your mind responding to stress.

[@kimwilliams3026]

So conversion is when you body physical reacts to the mind issue.? Do physical tests show your body has something wrong, just not a reason? I’m ver interested as my condition is rare and a lot have been to,d it’s conversion , not myself but it takes genetic testing etc which a lot of ppl can’t afford.

[@Sammygirl1231]

@@kimwilliams3026 tests show nothing being wrong I had an MRI done thinking it might be MS but it was perfectly fine.

[@crazybuthappy97]

My friend had non epileptic seizures, numbness, paralysis and fainting episodes because of conversion disorder it is so powerful

[@nursejanainholland4423]

Oh, girl. I hear you. Nursing school, 3 young kids, type-A husband, big house to care for, sang at church every week on Sunday at 7:30 a.m. I could go on and on. I don't know how I survived, passed at the top of my class, earned a school-wide award for achievement. All while dealing with chronic migraines, neck, and shoulder pain. The stress was staggeringly heavy. I was diagnosing myself with every disease in those big, heavy books. I hope you finished nursing school and have found some joy in your career. Love and hugs from a sister nurse.

[@kieranbyrne6090]

Thank you for informing/helping me acknowledge or bringing forward new information for me to help/try to help understand of what/how and why the human brain does/works how it works! Glad you have found out, managed to find how to figure out, and stop stressing so much! ✌, love and care!

[@mim0381]

Oh my gosh the girl who's dad had cancer, that's me. My dad died of a heart attack when I was 17 and the doctors missed it. He had one small attack and the doctors ignored it saying it was heart burn. My anxiety started the day he died.

[@avalonsky]

I really do feel for the young girl. Having a father with MS and seeing the pain and degradation first hand can really cause a lot of emotional trauma. You start to lose all trust in the world when you witness the person you love most in the world being in so much pain.

[@amandasnider2644]

And then the fact that there is a genetic and possibly hereditary aspect to MS

[@UnknownUser-xp1dp]

I forever believe I am suffering from seizures, heart disorders, and Tumors. Every other day I am at the doctors asking for answers. It is an awful disorder to have.

[@rikkichadwick3548]

Tell me about it..... And I'm just 21

[@paulaelectrabrandqvist8795]

I suffer from this real bad , my symptoms are awful its a living nightmare 😭😭😭😭

[@mols_x]

Paula Electra Brandqvist I understand completely 😢 I’m dealing with the same, health anxiety is so cruel!! Hope you are okay xx

[@paulaelectrabrandqvist8795]

❤

[@Crystal.Olivia1]

I am Laura from this documentary. I am now around 13 years on from this now... At the time mental health was not openly talked of, I felt alone and no one to turn to. Waiting list for CBT / councilling at the time was 4 months and I was in such a deep hole I knew no way out. I joined a chat room called “no panic” and saw an advert for a documentary of which if chose would receive full CBT therapy. Of course, not after attention, I just wanted to get better and if it meant treatment ASAP I was desperate and took it. It was the best thing I ever did. I had the best support of channel 4, the team at “only Human” - best therapy off one of the UKs leading therapists. I walked away having learnt to face my fears, challenge myself... and now 13 years on, yeah I still have bouts of anxiety at times. Only had around 2 panic attacks in 13 years - I know how to love with anxiety... Anyone suffering please do message me. I can say this. Accept you have anxiety. Don’t fight it say to yourself “yep here you are again / ride with it. It will pass and yes I realise - anxiety causes physical symptoms. Which then creates vicious circle you can’t snap out of,,, ride with it... the anxiety will pass and thoughts will get better... I look back now and can’t believe how bad I actually was... I was obsessed . Yes I get thoughts time to time , but fill life with other things, breathe and smell the air outside. Take in nature, take up new hobbies, see friends, listen to music - distract ! I had far too much time on my hands back then being a single mother. I’m Here if anyone struggling would like to get in touch. And all those with negativity or so support to people suffering with a mental health issue shame on you.

[@Ellabella12367]

I'm exactly the same the physical symptoms are so scary always feels like something is crushing my chest I'm always waiting to drop down and die

[@hana.8627]

@@Crystal.Olivia1 i feel the same way you did and it can be really annoying sometimes 😔

[@whatshisname3304]

the lady in the wheelchair, that is a form of hysterical paralysis. I read about it happening in the Ww1 and 2 it was a result of shock, traumatic stress. you could go blind, go deaf, or an arm might lose function or a leg, or balance would go. Psychosomatic.

[@tiffanyroseangeles7517]

Psychiatrist stares at them looking,bored

[@tiffanyroseangeles7517]

Seems like a lot is stress related or PSTD & natch anxiety

[@rexremedy1733]

Actually that’s psychopathological. Meaning the psychology affects the body in a very strong way. People can die of mental illness. It can affect the lymbic system and the immune system to the extent of causing severe physical symptoms. Some heart disease is a good example for this relation. Or immune system malreactions or weaknesses. Mental illness is a physical illness and must be treated as urgently as any other disease. Even worse: The nervous system reacts to physical abuse in the same way as to mental abuse. There is no distinction in the nervous system.

[@je_ss]

I am so glad I overcame this. I went through an "episode" if i can call it that, for a few months where it got irrationally horrible, I used to not be able to sleep at night like my anxiety just WOULDNT shut off none stop for weeks. it was exhausting. i couldnt function for a whole summer because I was convinced my appendix was rupturing or bursting, or something in my stomach was happening.. SO irrational but it felt very real and the only thing that got me out of that never ending loop up thinking i'm dying, looking up symptoms, was when i went and talked to a therapist for a few weeks, went on medicine for a year. then i slowly went off the medicine and the anxiety is sometimes still there but i do not worry about my health as badly. i feel very lucky. it made me not even eat for weeks too. it is very real and scary but you can overcome it. the scariest and triggering part for me was that when i was thinking about it, i could literally trick myself into feeling things moving in my body and thought something is wrong, but really our bodies are like machines and all in our bodies is contasntly working and moving on the inside, we just dont feel it because its second nature. but as soon as i had anxiety and focus on it it felt like new things were happening in me, like bad things were happening in my body but as soon as i accepted the truth which was i was FINE and healthy, with the help of anti depressant , it got easier. our minds are too powerful for us soemtimes.

[@aprillroberts]

Jessie Belle so pleased that you are able to move on. We waste so much of our lives worrying over nothing but it feels real whilst you’re suffering 💕

[@Willimiina]

I watched about a minute and immediately started to cry. The way I relate to these people it's also painful to watch it in third person.... :/ suffering from hypochondriac sucks so much

[@upwardvertigo6415]

it’s been 6 months how are you feeling? has it gotten any better? i’ve been a hypochondriac my entire life but recently it’s gotten really bad and i feel a sort of closure knowing others are going through the same stuff as me

[@Willimiina]

@@upwardvertigo6415 woah woww time goes really fast! I'll tell you with hypochondria it has eased a lot. But I still have thoughts like "oh no this doesn't look/feel normal" but then it goes away. With me it's that it comes and goes, time heals. But then unfortunately I have other mental issues going on right now, suffering from psychotic episode so I got to heal with it. I'm sorry you feel that way! It is painful, I think therapy would be the cure for this. Though it's not cheap at all haha

[@smegghead]

I have terrible health anxiety, I read through the comments before watching just to see if anyone mentioned any trigger warnings. I read this comment and thought to myself "oh I doubt it'll make me cry" and exactly the same as you a minute in and I'm sobbing 😅 Hope you're doing better now ❤️ best of luck to us all ❤️

[@Willimiina]

@@smegghead I'm better thank you 🖤 turned out I had more issues than hypochondria so it's treated now :)

[@chrisvig123]

Heal the mind first

[@Jade-pd3wm]

When I was a teen of 17 i started suffering anxiety attacks and what felt like a break down. I became afraid of going too far from home A year of this when i was 18 I decided Iwas not going to be a prisoner any more. I got a job that involved traveling a few miles from home. I moved out of the family home with my sister, and met new friends in no time i was living a normal life.. I just put it down to hormonal upheaval of being a teen and told myself it will pass.The mind is a powerful thing. but it has as much power to be positive as well.

[@fossil98]

I think with Jane after 5 years of not walking there would be some atrophy/wasting. I think this plus being overweight plus not being used to using her legs would feed into the illusion that she *couldn't* use her legs. I

[@honeybsweetnectar1713]

You maybe right

[@kimwilliams3026]

I’m part time in a chair for legit reasons so found it hard to watch her. But she will be physically worst off than five years ago from not using them. I understand she really feels there’s an issue but why do they nit all give credence to mental issues being able to cause physical fee,8ng, we never question the opposite. I feel there is a difference between those worrying they’ve got something or will get it vs already saying they have it yet nit wanting to seek any help. Most legit physically ill ppl would do anything too reverse it.

[@alimoore589]

I'd love to know if she did start walking again.

[@kiwisweetheart71]

@@kimwilliams3026 I agree with you. I know this is a mental illness, and I know both Laura and Jane had impaired quality of life, because of it. However, as someone with multiple genuine medical issues, including reduced mobility, a part of me wanted to give both a massive reality check. I sincerely hope things have improved for both of them. I also hope they are much happier and able to enjoy life again.

[@taraalan1131]

@MimiParis Was she covertly exercising during that hour , when she was locked in the bathroom ? She may have used the paralysis ( if it was a pretence ) for monetary gain or to seek attention ?

[@cinderscollective9645]

I want janes therapist what a lovely compassionate guy!

[@analuisafortalezamacedo1495]

When I was 18 I was in a rlly dark place with health anxiety, I went to the hospital several times, and I was always crying to my mom afraid I was going to die. Things got better when i started therapy and medication. It’s been 2 years now and I am going out of my medication slowing because I am better already!!

[@9sunsjuddleponk]

I was actually very sick when doctors thought I was a hypochondriac. Im finally getting the medical treatment I need.

[@genevievegagnon4657]

@Rozzy Roo. In one sentence you define how the NHS works. My GP was literally laughing at me when I said to him I might have caught the whooping cough. After blood test results: I caught the whooping cough. Maybe that's the reason why some people are hypochondriac. When your GP doesn't give a f....to find out if you're really sick or just totally doesn't care about what you're saying and you are suffering from a real illness...how do you want to trust your GP. Especially when your GP googles what of medication you need....Google seriously? Anyway at least we have a national health system and we don't have to sell our house for medical treatments like people living in the USA!

[@Iamthematrix-lx5km]

Geneviève Gagnon Germaphobes/hypochondriacs reunite!

[@emilywilson8289]

I have the same with my doctor, I have a terrible cough and every doctor I have seen says there is nothing wrong with me and they say I worry for nothing

[@indi2468]

Same here! For years I’ve struggled with extreme pains that have left me unable to move. After years of tests that come back negative and doctors that dismiss me I had started to think I was a hypochondriac. Turns out I had Endometriosis and got it removed. Even though I’m left with chronic pain afterwards, I know I’m not crazy and I’m glad I can get the treatment I need.

[@genevievegagnon4657]

@Will.J you're so right.

[@layne6637]

everytime i have a new “illness” i convince myself its real. im going to die, i waste my days being scared and just such a downer because i cant stop anticipating death. and then, when its over, I tell myself- “See? it’s fine. this always happens and you always end up okay.” but then i get a small pain in the side of my head and here we go again. How can i REALIZE that i am okay and that im not going to die but at the same time- do this every week?

[@Lia-uj7of]

It sucks that you realize in the end ur just wasting ur time worrying about illness that u don't have. I hope that this will go away.

[@layne6637]

@@Lia-uj7of im in a new illness now. this time- it really could be real and im scared out of my mind..

[@Lia-uj7of]

@@layne6637 don't worry, sometimes out mind just creates symptoms so the illnesses we think of and we search on the internet goes real. If u think u need help I'll just suggest that u go to the doctor. I hope we get well soon❤️ this pandemic makes it worse.

[@Lia-uj7of]

@@layne6637 also the symptoms of health anxiety isqfear of dying, feeling that u will die and fear of going insane and out of ur mind. So don't search and don't think any illnesses.

[@Arsenallozz]

I feel the same so much of the time I hope your ok

[@marijalazic7067]

Omg this is so relatable... Unfortunately. I am only 18 and am convinced that I have MS or even something worse. 😭😭😭

[@mayasudac6232]

😔 yes...

[@jessbeee4773]

I'm an 18 year old who also suffers with this, although in therapy. How are you now? :)

[@hellsbells2028]

I really feel for Laura, my mum died in 2006 and I have alot of the same feelings surrounding her death. Not the health anxiety buy the burden of guilt and not being able to take the pain away. The day my Mum died still haunts me.

[@aprillroberts]

bella 893 bless you , sending hugs 🤗

[@floralarrangements5919]

Her comment has been pinned at the top f. Y. I

[@CraftyWitch1990]

Does for me too. When i first moved upto Scotland from England 4 years ago to be with my partner, i told my mum i wasn't sure i wanted to go because i knew how ill she was in general and i wanted to be there to support her and she told me you can't live your life being worried of the "what ifs" so i moved. Fast forward to last year and she went rapidly downhill. My brother called me and said she was being really forgetful and not eating etc so i called an ambulance remotely and they ended up taking her to hospital. She was a stubborn old cow though and discharged herself the following day (tuesday). She got worse during that week and we had a huge argument over the phone where i told her she needed help or she was gonna end up in a box and we stopped speaking. She went further downhill and my dad took her to hospital on the sunday, by half 3 monday morning she was dead and the last words i ever said to her was get help or ur gonna die. That will haunt me forever.

[@Arsenallozz]

Me too mine passed 10 years ago and it feels like yestedsy

[@miloun8957]

To be fair, when I had a migraine for the first time I thought I was going to die as well. I thought there was no way you could have so much pain and not die.

[@sHaRiNgAn1011]

Same with headaches. I just don't get them. I've only ever had 2 in my WHOLE life. And both times I thought I was dying because it couldn't possibly be normal to feel like this. Shits wild

[@debbiepeter112]

I have Chronic Daily Migraines meaning I have them 24 hours a day 7 days a week and there is nothing anyone can do for me.

[@emilieraelee5234]

@@debbiepeter112 have you seen a chiropractor?

[@debbiepeter112]

@@emilieraelee5234 No I haven't. Saw a Specialist years ago. I developed migraines when I was pregnant. They told me they would probably go away after I gave birth but they stayed and got worse instead. I have just got used to having migraines 24hrs a day 7 days a week. They do get so bad sometimes that I have have to take god knows how many meds to try and reduce the severity (as nothing has taken them away completely). They usually last 24-48 hours

[@emilieraelee5234]

@@debbiepeter112 I'm so sorry to hear that. I have one at least once a week. Pregnancy, menstruating etc. Just makes them ten times worse. So I cannot imagine the suffering you go through. I also take a ridiculous amount of pain relief. Please please please consider a chiropractor. It is pricey. But worth it. Medication is not a long term solution. Chiropractic treatment is.

[@charlottepringle4826]

I am disgusted by the tone of this show. The emphasis seems to be on the fact that these patients are wasting doctors' time. I would like to challenge anyone who thinks that to live with a mental health disorder. It is the most excruciating pain and victims of it deserve treatment.

[@PinkkElephantt]

Not to mention, what is the point here? Don't go to the doctors no matter how worried you are - wait till you literally have a stroke or a seizure. Okay, I'm sure lots of visits to the GP are essentially nothing, but 10 minutes of the doctor's time to convey your worries and get whatever it is checked out... Isn't that what they're there for?!

[@BenetbenetLive]

The fact is they are wasting the doctors time, that's what hypochondriacts do. And I feel sorry for everybody involved.

[@traviswellman1834]

Niinji Music I am fully against this I admit the people in this show are ridiculous and have turns hypochondria into a joke. But I am a hypochondriac and I can say this is not how it is

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

@@traviswellman1834 I for one am a hypochondriac but I'm terrified of going to the doctor so I don't wastes doctors time

[@rexremedy1733]

Very dangerous, what if a patient gets misdiagnosed as hypochondriac and has an actual and dangerous illness which would never be seriously looked at because it’s just a hypochondriac. There need to be safeguards not to get one group mixed up with the other.

[@Keywy]

I usually have pretty mild health anxiety, like maybe every month or so I have a panic attack and general anxiety because I think I have cancer or a bowel obstruction or meningitis or something, but the worst anxiety I've ever had is the times I've thought I had HIV. The absolute terror of believing I had HIV was indescribable, worst panic attacks of my life. Luckily for me the anxiety over one particular illness never lasts longer than a few weeks and I get gaps of feeling mostly okay in between. I can't imagine having to deal with the horrible fear of health anxiety every single day.

[@sedoniadragotta8323]

Does it effect your digestive system and aches and pains ?

[@Xonndy]

Omg, I feel so identified by this, my mom died of cancer, and I'm terrified of it...

[@miyamora]

omg same, she died when I was 11, I'm 13 now and I'm ok other than the health anxiety! I hope your doing ok!! how are you? 💚💞

[@Trilling0Fong]

"Kevin is encouraged to wipe his hands around the bloodstained rim of this public toilet"... WHAT ARE YOU TEACHING THESE PEOPLE?!

[@Iamthematrix-lx5km]

ChristieMJ It’s for the public’s amusement.

[@Alicia-gj2nl]

It was fake blood

[@Iamthematrix-lx5km]

Alicia Vahldieck I imagined so too. 😝

[@laurenlwhite82]

I actually started to shout out while watching this on my own "No don't do it, no don't do it " 🤣... asking him to wipe his hand on his face before washing them properly 🤮🤮... poor man is prob worse than ever now

[@izzylk1802]

and then they made him wipe his fingers around his MOUTH??

[@zoranabanana]

Watching this documentary was so heartbreaking. I also went through this a few years ago and it was so bad I collapsed and got admitted in a psych ward. I didn’t realize it was anxiety that gotten really bad.. still do deal with it but it’s not as bad. I hope all these women managed to get better 💛✨

[@axolotlsquadplays]

this is me always at the drs needing answers or blood tests and the receptionists even know who i am by my voice on the phone

[@scoringjoker1984]

I have health anxiety. I find the worst thing is the self doubt you get about if you are actually ill. Big problem because if you are actually ill you might not do anything about it because you think its in your head. Has already happened to me with a kidney infection. Also once you havs anxiety on your record the nhs treats you as a joke

[@tulips91]

Yes, exactly. How will you know if if it's an actual illness if you simply take it as just an anxiety symptom, right? Our situation is beyond difficult. Seriously.

[@emmatoplak2526]

what people need to realise, is none of us are getting out alive .. it just comes down to what takes us . enjoy the journey ! you don't want to get to the end and come to the realisation that you have wasted the precious time you had by worrying about the inevitable

[@itselleyy]

i was diagnosed as a 14 year old with health anxiety, i still worry occasionally but i am wayyyy better than i used to be

[@louiselailey]

Hey, how have you been coping since this pandemic started? I have my own anxieties about catching this as I have auto immune diseases so my immune system is very low right now. But not to the scale of the anxiety levels if the people on this programme! I wish you all the best. Take care! Xx

[@itselleyy]

Lulu Short & sweet oh i’ve been fine to be honest, had a corona scare myself from being in hospital with someone who had it but yeah i’ve been completely fine, hbu?

[@whysoserioux]

Same, living with this is horrible. I just want someone to talk to and open up maybe it will be better just a lil bit ?

[@itselleyy]

@@whysoserioux if u need anyone to talk to my insta/twitter is @elleyfreeman

[@hajra637]

I was diagnosed with it at 8 already and despite all the therapies I attended it still won't go away... I'm 18 now.

[@Ghast101]

Health anxiety is the worst feeling, it is debilitating and causes so much stress. I just came out of a period of having daily battles with severe anxiety for 5 weeks. Miserable. The worst part is that you know your suspicions are ridiculous but a little part of you believes it and it just keeps going on and on.

[@Tazdevildearnaley]

I'm now a trained therapist but I used to have severe health anxiety and generalised anxiety. It's insane what the mind can do and how dangerous things can feel that aren't. I lost count the amount of times I rang for an ambulance thinking I was dying when it was anxiety. Anxiety sucks!!!

[@mjoachim9554]

Hi Laura. This documentary was amazing to watch. I related the most to what you were experiencing and your responses would be exactly what I would say too. I can only dream to be cured of this anxiety. It destroys a good chunk of my soul.

[@awkwardpanda8328]

I was told I had health anxiety because I had worsening back pain that doctors could not pinpoint for years. Now I’ve been diagnosed with intravertebral disc herniations in my spine and have been referred to orthopedic surgery for spinal fusion. It wasn’t in my head. It was and is actually real.

[@lizziewangeci9267]

This comment really spoke to me. I've been having lower back problems since 2016, done pysio therapy, taken meds seen different doctors, was told at one time that it's sciatica. Then I was told that it's the medication that was used when I had my children through cesearian section.Epidural( Three to be exact). Sometimes it's so bad I can't get myself to do simple house chores. Been using the slimming belt, massages once in a while. But still stuck with no answer. Last doctor I saw told me that the pain was in my head......

[@awkwardpanda8328]

Lizzie Wangeci honestly, my only advice is you know your body. You know if something is truly wrong. I was told over 50 times that there’s nothing they could do and I just have to deal with it and go to therapy. But I kept pushing and finally got an MRI. Even still, one doctor looked at it and said it was normal. But a while later I went to a new doctor and he pulled my records and saw something that the other doctor didn’t see. Best of luck. I definitely suggest to keep pushing for an answer.

[@ashleyashleym2969]

With a lot of back pain, the source is hard to point out quite surprised they dismissed your pain just like that.

[@shimmer8289]

Hi I had sane experience finally diagnosed with cancer. Stats say a female going to a gp is very much at risk of being dismissed or misdiagnosed. If there is any evidence of anxiety on your chart the likelihood is higher. It's called patient profiling.

[@Yaarghhhh]

I know a hypochondriac and its next to impossible to hang out with her. The first few minutes everything is okay and we make plans for the day together but after about an hour or so, her "symptoms" begin and she asks to be taken care of and nursed to health. It's very frustrating but I feel terrible for her.

[@nikola-qm5lm]

Gurl I got the same problem with my friend. She barely comes out awk

[@ashleyashleym2969]

Her symptoms sound completely uncontrolled. SHe seriously needs therapy and learn how to cope with the symptoms. I have hypochondria and a lot of my friends aren't even aware I have it because I manage the symptoms very well.

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

@@ashleyashleym2969 I shut up and get on with it even when I think I'm dying

[@layne6637]

is this how my friends feel?:(

[@ebonyyleigh]

Yeh you should, it’s worse on our end, crying because of a mole vs getting frustrated over a worried friend

[@albadude1922]

I suffer from anxiety and I still get it really bad sometimes but I know how to handle it. I also tend to overthink things but I’m just glad my family’s really supportive and helped me through it.

[@brocktoon8]

This was the most entertaining thing I've seen in ages. I wish this was a series.

[@salanee]

My dad is hypochondric. He is always ill and always is looking for new illness. The more invasive examination the better. When doctor says he is not ill, he is going to other. When anyone in the family is ill, he must also be ill and in worst condition. He is saying goodbye to everyone every week because he is dying. He is taking all avaiable pills to prevent from another imaginary illness. At every familly meeting he is showing his examination results. He is only happy when he is in hospital . And only doctor he doesn't want to go is psychiatrist.

[@BlackLabelSlushie]

salanee sounds like my ex's mother. She forced her daughter to spend almost every second of her life taking care of her mom till her twenties. When i took my ex to dinner, the mom would call non stop 'going into shock' 'anafylaxis' asthma attacks you name it. Several times, if i took my ex out the mom would end up calling 911 and be in a hospital within an hour with xyz emergency

[@smirkovs120]

We need to connect to nature where all metal illnes does not exist

[@aneerj9790]

I undstand that been there

[@dean1234439]

It sounds like munchausen's

[@sydniedesjarlais7917]

@@smirkovs120 people with mental illnesses cannot cure it by simply going into nature. I love hiking and camping but i still have depression

[@daisymiller6057]

I hate beeing affected by this anxiety! Imagine living your life as if everyday you are diagnosed with a terrible, uncurabel desiese. Doesn´t matter if you have diagnosed it yourself, it is the same kind of paralyzing fear. But watching videos about hypochondriacs, always gives me such a great sense of relief. By seeing how rediculous they act, I realize how stupid MY thoughts are. But sometimes it can be really bad, especially at night, then the thoughts really kick in.

[@joelhall5124]

Been like this since my first panic attack in 2004. It has destroyed my life and sanity.

[@tiffanyroseangeles7517]

Sarah was the winner here! She was the more receiptive af them all! Such a a great open soul. You'll stay Well,Sarah

[@ilyesa2782]

Question for Dr. Hanson: why is Jane diagnosed with hypochondria and not with Functional Neurological Disorder?

[@theboujieproletariat]

Ilyesa yes!!!! She has a different illness than the others. I am trying to get into a masters degree to study FND. I recognised it straight away.

[@PrincessMissRuby]

This is from trauma mostly from seeing other people die

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

Nothing of the sort happened to me but I have hypochondria

[@jaweec.7734]

Exactly when an vlogger here in philippines died name Llhoyd Cadena i have this health anxiety

[@miyamora]

I mean not for all people but for lots, it hurts when you watched your mum die when you were 11 👁👄👁💧

[@marionsimpletraveller443]

@@jaweec.7734 same here

[@quendelf]

Used to be me. Not anymore. I got ACTUALLY ILL.... very ill. Totally unexpectedly, didn't predict anything... and I was fine afterwards. I realised that all the worry was pointless. Haven't had much health anxiety since.

[@NurseD82]

I’m glad to hear Laura is doing well now. Seeing your parent go through all of that & then to die, would of course scar you for life. I think about death, how I might go & whether it might be from an illness that I’ve witnessed through family history. I think that’s all totally normal. The fear of dropping dead from every or any little twinge, pain or headache must be so overwhelming. I hope they all manage to move on from their illnesses. Physical or mental.

[@IntuitiveLivingg]

Omg I suffer from the same problem 😞😞😞😞😞

[@Krea57]

I’m the opposite. I never see my doctor. Not long time ago I nearly died off a brain tumour,2 strokes, 4 aneurysm,s and a craniotomy. I see him now 😂😂

[@sammy5674]

Me too. Never seen my doc, had two brain anurysm and now even the slightest headache, I'm at the docs. I've had so many illnesses, I could have been labled an hypochondriac. Lucky for me all my ill health was real. I feel for these poor people.

[@chatoyante2732]

What a great thing to post on a comment section full of hypochondriacs

[@KikiTheHobbit]

@@chatoyante2732 right? like wtf i never see my doctor bc im terrified of any possible diagnosis...

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

I never see the doc but I get chest pains I'm sorry for you guys who have actually got something wrong with you God bless

[@jacobhinchliffe3366]

I got hypochondria

[@beth-bi9yv]

This must take a real toll on their friends and family. ....

[@smellylorenny]

Anxiety is NO JOKE. I cannot stress how important it is to treat people suffering from anxiety with respect and empathy. It is an isolating and terrifying thing to suffer from health anxiety, usually it's coupled with some sort of trauma, but even when it's not it can seriously be debilitating. I have anxiety and more recently it's started to grow into a health anxiety unlike anything I've experienced before. You can imagine, it gets worse as you get older because you start to become more vulnerable to and aware of illnesses and health complications. I think the best thing I've learnt to manage it is to just take full control over my health and do the best I can for my body and mind. But I always need the reassurance of others and I hate to see in this program just how dismissive and impatient some people can be... What we need most of all is reassurance and compassion. A big hug does wonders.

[@deanjago1761]

I'm also like many am suffering from health anxiety. Remind to all let's fight this all and challenge ourselfs we are good!

[@frejahunter8141]

Another reason why it is important to show this is the opposite. Having social anxiety and then getting physically ill, the doctors tend to look at my history and say “it’s your anxiety”. However, other than being discharged from my psychiatrist, I have now had physical proof that I am unwell, and yet sometimes they still doubt me. I find it so difficult. It’s like they want you to speak up about mental health but it really does hold you back when you’re in need for physical health care.

[@georgefloydtoys3092]

i’ve never related so much to this video!

[@yhposolihp9960]

I am crying while watching this, because relate to these feelings... I know my condition... I tell myself that its all in my head and yet it interferes with my life so much. Sometimes I am angry, sometimes I am sad, sometimes everything seems normal. The palpations I get are not a heart attack, there is no ringing in my ear, the headaches are not signs of tutor, irregular periods does not mean I have PCOS, occasional hairfall does not mean I have alopecia, my eyes are normal and I don't have blurry vision...I know, yet I cannot control how I feel. Its like wanting a person to love you back... but they dont and you have no control over them. All you can do is pre-occupy your thoughts with them... but you cannot get them to love you. You can tell yourself they won't come back for you, or you can try again and again to get them to love you but they just dont.

[@nidhiarya3298]

Now u r ok or not???

[@jerhzacarias]

i wanna hug all of you. huhuhu. been hypochondriac for almost year now. i want my life back. i want to enjoy what i used to enjoy. 😭😭😭

[@iLilith11]

Hug 🫂 to you. I relate so much 😢

[@xoalishaxo7600]

This therapy was excellent

[@jaynekittycat9252]

I think Laura needed bereavement councelling after her father's death. Really felt for her.

[@daliagrigonyte6872]

the guy with HIV fear is so brave, he is so freaking scared of those things, and yet continues to expose himself, i wish he recovered fully from fear

[@craigbenton8358]

I have had hypercondrea for about five years. At my worst I was checking my heart rate at least four or five times a day and their was nothing wrong. Only recently have I calmed down a lot by talking with friends about it and trying to understand the condition better. However I still do worry about my health even though I know there’s nothing wrong with me.

[@KatieEmmaNZ]

Man.. this hits home. Myself with a totally irrational phobia of throwing up - I stop myself from so much and convince myself everything is going to make me sick when in reality I haven't thrown up since I was 8... I'm now 25.

[@bb3035]

KatieEmmaNZ me too!!

[@toxiccity9261]

me too!!!

[@lisapomeroy9222]

Same thing! Oh my god. I am so afraid of throwing up. My anxiety convinces me I feel sick and I have a panic attack. Why does this happen? What helps you?

[@Chillingcomfy]

30:25 Adorable, happy and free. delightful thing to see

[@dogdream789]

I can’t even begin to imagine the extent to which peoples mental health has deteriorated/ health anxiety been exacerbated due to the pandemic. Even I have become more reclusive and avoidant of people because of my fears from COVID so it must be so much worse for people who have this kind of mental illness. Mental health support should be more readily available to everyone ❤️

[@JC.1829]

As a person with hypochindriasis. I may say this condition is killing me everyday....

[@nichola9164]

I'm the same. I am so much worse now. Its terrifying

[@JC.1829]

@@nichola9164 It is very terrifying. Only people with the same condition such us ourselves would understand the evryday struggle. 😭

[@marionsimpletraveller443]

I understand my health anxiety came back after i got covid and got my lab test some are above normal

[@charliejeffery4525]

Filmed in 2006 this was. Hope all those who attended therapy back then are all good 14 years later on!

[@jojo1234a]

I realise this isn’t commonplace when it comes to hyperchondriacs, but I was told for many years that I had a mental health issue after seeing so many doctors, so many traumatic and unexpected hospital visits. The pain and affect on my life was so unbearable at one point that I became suicidal. One hospital visit, one of many, I was given a leaflet about health anxiety syndrome, a posh word for hyperchondriac. I fought on, knowing I was mentally well and anxiety had only presented itself to me for the first time in my life when my symptoms became apparent and I was not believed. Otherwise I don’t have anxiety. I changed doctors, fought tooth and nail despite being at my lowest and most vulnerable physically. I got sent to a specialist to essentially shut me up because I would be told I’m fine from the top dog ... my symptoms never wandered, they remained the same. I was given blood tests and then saw the specialist. Within 2 minutes he had diagnosed me with a very rare, life limiting and dangerous genetic disorder which essentially effects the collagen and the connective tissue, which is in our entire bodies. The blood tests confirmed this. I could go into details forever but for now, let me just say that the day of my diagnosis was the best and worst day of my life. I was so very relieved that all the years of being told it was in my head etc was behind me, and I now knew what I faced with a label, which meant I could tackle it in the most effective way. Sadly, it was also the worst day because it was indeed confirmed I was ill, plus that there was no cure and it would only worsen with age... as a side note, I was told that had my doctor believed me and acted earlier I may have been able to get a little further ahead of my illness. I’m now bedbound but I’m living every moment with the zest of a newborn lamb. I realise hyperchondriacs are real, and they have their own struggles, plus they drain the health system. However, sometimes, just sometimes, it can be real.

[@charliew3130]

You are so strong❤❤

[@AP-bo1if]

hypochondriac is a good "excuse" disease for doctors to write off a patient they can't figure out what's causing his/her ACTUAL physical problems. "it's just stress dear"

[@rexremedy1733]

Thanks for your example, I wrote a comment about exactly this issue. There must be safeguards to prevent patients with rare or hard to diagnose illness from being mixed into actual hypochondriac syndrome. Here is a hint: I you feel physical pain, real fatigue, real weakness, so that it affects your life and forces you to choices against your will and desires, it’s hardly something to do with being hypochondriac. If the pain prevents you from enjoying activities which are essential to your personality and life, it’s serious. I hope doctors read this...

[@jojo1234a]

I just wanted people to realise that there are two sides to everything. Being a hyperchondriac can be a real issue, both for the person suffering from it, and for that persons loved ones, not to mention the medical staff that have to try and deal with said person in the most delicate yet effective way. I truly believe that a person genuinely suffering from this mental health condition should be treated with the same dignity and respect as anyone else with a condition, mental or not. Because, the overbearing worry they have over health, albeit not accurate, is there for a reason. But, I needed to share my story also. I was somewhat concerned that some hyperchondriacs might read my story and it further embed their own false thoughts about their health, it was a worry of mine and I defiantly don’t want to make anything worse for anyone. But, I had to say, because there are those few who are really wanting their life back and those who know, like myself, that on a deep cellular level, something is genuinely wrong. I wish I had the answers as to how health professionals can know the difference, and in truth I can’t think of a way. My only suggestion to doctors out there is that sometimes there super rare genetic problems can hide well and lie deep within a person, requiring very specific and specialist tests. All the general and usual tests I passed with flying colours. The only reason I was sent to the best of the best is for reasons of ‘you can’t see anyone better than this guy, once he tells you that you are imagining it, that’s it game over you have to deal with it’. As it happened, this doctor top of his field took one look at me and diagnosed me there and then, with blood tests just to confirm the diagnosis. It must be tricky for any healthcare professional to find that line between not wasting funding and resources on someone who clearly has an issue within their mind to make them think they are physically poorly, while also feeling able to use funds and resources to be able to diagnose those odd few who really are physically unwell. I feel for everyone involved, it’s such a tricky subject. Thanks to all who read my original post and I’m wishing everyone a healthy, happy and blessed life xxxx

[@1588chrissy]

Sadly, that poor treatment and regard is common with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome patients (hypermobility and connective tissue disorder). It takes years to find someone who actually can recognise it rather than dismiss it. And even worse, it isn’t even that rare. So sorry for your suffering

[@a.a.1245]

Fantastic documentary

[@francescafoster854]

I struggle with anxiety disorder and it manifests in different ways always social but sometimes food, cleaning rituals and phobia of illness too. I have overcome my fear of illness now but for years I always thought I was seriously ill, I couldn't touch anything in case I got a disease, I used to take painkillers every morning and 4 times a day "just in case". It's very real and I can completely understand! :(

[@EA-js1me]

Is there anyone from the U.S. in the comments? Because I was wondering how hypochondriacs deal with the U.S. health care system... as a European I can’t imagine how much it costs there to go every day to the GP, go to the ER with panic attacks, do very expensive imaging tests, as I imagine the insurance companies won’t pay elective tests.

[@beth-bi9yv]

That is actually a really good point. Now, I'm quite curious as well....

[@theboujieproletariat]

I was interested in that too. They must spend all their money on it.

[@kimbo7496]

I do relate very much and I think it's because I lost my mother at 15 so I'm certain I will get sick and die young like her. I'm sure there is a definite connection between losing someone trauma in your life.

[@Sunflowers9191]

Both my mom and I have this. People always make fun of it but you are genuinely terrified. I’ve had this since I was 12 years old and I read this article of a little girl having leukemia.. ever since that I am terrified of getting a serious illness as well. I’ve even gotten symptoms of certain illnesses from just obsessing over it 😏 it’s ridiculous but yeah, I can’t help it. Luckily it goes with ups and downs

[@sarahbarry6627]

This was me 10 years ago.. I seen my doctor all the time, couldn't sleep was crying all the time convinced I was going to die.. its a horrible way to live.. I would only ever travel if I knew I would be staying close to a hospital.. its a horrible way to live.. im so glad I've overcome it

[@zoecellis88]

I don’t like how they are being referred to as “hypochondriacs” it’s a serious mental health anxiety, health anxiety and it’s absolutely horrific to go through. It’s like carrying a massive weight around 24/7. They aren’t doing it for attention or just overreacting. They/we actually feel it’s real and happening. I’m very intuned with my body and I didn’t actually realise until last year that I have health anxiety, I’ve had it since 2006 when I was spiked while working abroad. But you get symptoms and you’re convinced there’s something wrong. Google doesn’t help when you use it. But my dr is so used to my anxiety they keep dismissing me. And for the last 4 months I’ve had certain health issues but the dr finally gave me the FIT test and this week it’s come back as high levels of blood in my stools so I’ve now got to go for further investigation. Which obviously makes you feel very anxious even more. If I didn’t have children I’d just see it all as ‘whatever happens happens’ but when you Have children who rely on you then the anxiety is so bad

[@daliagrigonyte6872]

update please

[@AnthonyWithington]

I know exactly how these ppl feel. My dad died at the age of 43 from thrombosis. Mine started then. When I have these episodes 95% of me knows I'm fine.. but that 5% thinking it could be bad overtakes everything.

[@joelhall5124]

This came up on my feed again, and made me re-evaluate where I am now. Sadly, not too well, as I'm suffering various physical symptoms like putting oedema in my legs and dyspnoea. Thankfully, I have a GP who isn't dismissive simply because of my health anxiety.

[@joanewood2647]

Watching this has made me realise one thing. My doctors called me a hypochondriac even accused me of having Munchausen syndrome. For 6 years or more I kept telling them I didn't feel right. I was sleeping all the time. I had No energy at all and gave up all my hobbies because I was so listless halfway through the day. I also had No body hair growing in the usual places for us ladies. None. All I got from the doctors was " Count yourself lucky you don't have to bother shaving. The medication you've been taking is making you drowsy so let's cut that down see how that goes". I did everything they asked of me and more. I had numerous blood test's scans and x rays. I kept being told it was All in my mind. Then about 2 and a half years ago. I had to change surgeries as mine closed. I'd been with my previous doctors for near 20 years and had also asked about my high blood pressure. Again my doctor said that because 1 or 2 on the machine had been " Normal". I didn't have hypertension. Anyway I changed surgeries, got a new doctor during lock down. First thing they did was send me for a different barge of test's. Along with having to wear a blood pressure monitor for 24 hrs. Within a week I was diagnosed with severe hypertension and was given medication for this. Shortly afterwards I received a phone call from the hospital asking me to go for test's as a day outpatient. Shortly After that test I was diagnosed with a life threatening illness. One that my previous doctors had Failed to diagnose me with. Suffice to say I'm on medication now for Life. I still have to go to the hospital every 6 to 12 months to check I'm on the correct dose of medication and even have an emergency injection pack should the need arise. I still get days wete I'm extremely tired and low on energy. But had my surgery Not closed I doubt they would've Ever diagnosed this illness and I could quite easily have fallen into a coma and died. My illness is called Addisons Disease of which my body does Not make Adrenaline or Cortisol. The fact that I had No body hair for approximately 6 or 7 years. Should've told them that Something Was wrong with my body and I was Not a Hypochondriac or even suffering from Munchausen either. I think doctors need better understanding of patients. As we Know when Something is Wrong with Our bodies. I'm now on Steroids for Life as well as medication for my hypertension. I understood where All of these people were coming from. The Mind can and Does play horrible tricks with your body. All I can say about mine is. Thank God my New doctors actually listened to me and decided to take action. Or I might Not be here to tell the tale.

[@kittymeow846]

This documentary really speaks to me, as I am a hypocondriac as well.. thinking I'm going to have a heart attack or a stroke at any moment, but that's because my anxiety causes me to have similar symtoms.. At least now I know for a fact that I am not alone.

[@Zanderren]

You can tell this is a long time ago because you can’t even get in to see your GP when something is genuinely wrong so…😂

[@Emilyweasel2023]

My doctors were starting to think that I had this because I kept complaining of unrelated issues and chronic pain. Dismissed my theory of hypermobile Ehlers Danlos syndrome. Went to see a geneticist with a letter from a GP who was starting to think I may be right. I have hypermobile Ehlers Danlos I was right. It annoys me every time I think about it

[@blindgirluk1845]

I have it too. Same as my mum.

[@Emilyweasel2023]

The disbelief and dismissal is real

[@theboujieproletariat]

Emily Kinsella it is entirely possible to have FND / chronic pain and symptoms based in the mind *and* ehlers danlos. In fact it is more common than uncommon. The doctors diagnose this because they see it more frequently than someone who has a genuine chronic illness without any functional symptoms. Many people have both so having EDS doesn’t automatically mean all the symptoms are physical. I have been there myself and now fascinated by it.

[@rexremedy1733]

Yes. Medicine should negotiate safeguards for this kind of misdiagnosis.

[@missthing5842]

Such a mood.

[@bygonestales2171]

If you are suffering from a mental illness, it is always a good step to find a Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program, and in some cases a dialectic behavioural therapy (DBT) program. It can be so hard for the mentally ill to make real progress in recovering since many doctors aren't even aware of the resources out there.

[@mellwrrld9206]

35:06 "a real live GAY MAN." sorry but I find that narration hilarious.

[@lucymziri1130]

Very interesting documentary!

[@tanyadangl3107]

Anxiety is by far the worst. Your body is the only home you ever truly live in. To have your mind turn on you, creating a war within you is the most frightening thing. Until you have experienced this kind of anxiety, don't judge. No one asks to have this. I know I certainly didn't.

[@TheScottishDad]

I entertained suicidal thoughts recently as I also suffer with this but it really hit an all time low during covid, vaccine side effects etc. It can consume all of your energy to the point you think that not being here might be better as it can feel like there is no escape at times. I really empathize with anyone suffering with this. Reassurance seeking absolutely adds to the feelings once the quick relief wares off, you think "but what if i never explained that symptom correctly?". There is always a what if question.

[@helenw8019]

I've been the same during the pandemic. I suffered health anxiety before but it's got so much worse since the pandemic and after having the vaccine, worrying about every possible health issue that could come about due to these. I literally worry every single day that I'm really ill.

[@louiselailey]

I would be interested to find out how these people are coping during this covid 19 hopefully they are all doing well!

[@fallyas]

Il not one of them but I have health anxiety like them , was in therapy for 2 years , felt good until covid and let me tell you it was WILD , got on medication for the first time because of it...helped a lot , felt human again , normal 😊 day by day it fades away so I’m on the process of stopping the anxiolytics and still feel normal . I hope everyone can have the right help they need specially in these times . 🙏🏼

[@skyewithane8440]

I struggled with health anxiety OCD related stuff and corona virus has unfortunately triggered more severe anxiety for me

[@vegetablesoupfortheteenage1167]

Im a hypochondriac, im scared that its going to take over my life, i wanted to tell my parents how i really feel but im worried that their reaction will be something on the line of, “the glass is half empty” positive quotes, and etc. I dunno, im just venting on the internet. During these anxious moments, i sometimes feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Every strange bodily sensation ive experienced, i worry and google it for reassurance that its not serious.

[@jemzdavidson191]

I have Health Anxiety - and I have had sessions with psychiatrist etc. Mine started with obsessively googling and I understand the not wanting to open up about it to people because u feel they don't understand and won't get it :( Google is your enemy trust me! Hope u get better

[@tatygalor4479]

waw treatment through exposure! good for some patients but very tricky with others. I love this concept if done properly