What is Cyberchondria? Symptoms and Effects
Cyberchondria, is an increasingly common situation today and refers to the tendency of individuals to diagnose themselves by researching health problems on the internet. This process increases patients' health concerns and leads to psychological problems. The easy access provided by the internet misinforms individuals and causes real health problems to be ignored.
Symptoms of Cyberchondria
Symptoms of cyberchondria often manifest as excessive anxiety and obsessive thoughts about health. Here are some of these symptoms:
- Continuous Disease Research: Individuals constantly search for symptoms of illness on the internet.
- Tracking Information Obtained from the Internet: While following health-related information, they may be exposed to false or misleading information.
- Avoiding Doctor Visits: Self-diagnosis reduces physician visits.
- High Anxiety Level: They worry excessively about their health conditions and this negatively affects their social life.
- Psychological Problems: Psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression may occur.
Psychological Effects of Cyberchondria
Cyberchondria, has serious effects not only on physical health but also on psychological health. Individuals may perceive themselves as sick due to false information on the internet, and this may increase their anxiety levels and disrupt their social lives. Experts emphasize that this situation can lead to psychological problems:
- Difficulty Managing Anxiety: Patients have difficulty managing their anxiety because they are self-diagnosed.
- Increase in Psychological Disorders: Anxiety symptoms are observed, which reduces the quality of life of individuals.
- Social Isolation: Constantly researching for diseases can negatively affect individuals' social relationships.
Methods for Coping with Cyberchondria
Taking steps to cope with cyberchondria can help individuals maintain their psychological and physical health. Here are some methods that can be followed:
- Physician Visits: A physician should definitely be consulted to obtain accurate information about health problems.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy sessions can play a big role in managing anxiety and helping individuals relax.
- Obtaining Information from the Right Source: It is important to check the accuracy of information on the internet and obtain information from reliable sources.
- Support Groups: Sharing experiences with other individuals can help with emotional support and reducing anxiety.
As a result
Cyberchondria has become one of the most common health problems today. The flow of information provided by the internet causes individuals to be misled and their health concerns to increase. Therefore, it is extremely important to access the correct information and get the necessary professional support. Do not neglect your health problems and definitely get help from a specialist.
