AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Illness anxiety disorder is a chronic mental illness previously known as hypochondria. People with this disorder have a persistent fear that they have a serious or life-threatening illness despite few or no symptoms.

Detailed explanation-2: -Illness anxiety disorder, sometimes called hypochondriasis or health anxiety, is worrying excessively that you are or may become seriously ill. You may have no physical symptoms.

Detailed explanation-3: -Symptoms of anxiety produce very real physical symptoms: Dizziness, stomachaches, rapid heartbeat, tingling in the hands and feet, muscle tension, jitteriness, chest pressure, and the list goes on. These symptoms add fuel to the fire.

Detailed explanation-4: -Physical activity relieves tension and anxiety, so make time for regular exercise. Don’t use alcohol and drugs to cope with your symptoms, and try to avoid stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, which can make anxiety worse. Reduce stress in your life. Examine your life for stress, and look for ways to minimize it.

Detailed explanation-5: -Since the exact cause is unknown, illness anxiety disorder is usually diagnosed by ruling out other conditions. In order to make a formal diagnosis, healthcare providers refer to the criteria set by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5).