How can I know if I'm being a hypochondriac about being a hypochondriac?

Question

Two part question: I read up on hypochondriasis and it fit me really well. I lean towards mental illnesses rather than physical illness though. I think I am a genuine hypochondriac. But how do I know if I'm not just "thinking" I have this disorder when I don't? That's really confusing.

2nd question:
In Florida, to go to a hospital or clinic or more public places like that do they take young adults and check you out and then get payment or can you just get care without paying or how does that work? I want to look into a few things that could be wrong but don't want parents to take me nor would they accept something might be wrong and I just can't tell them what's up until I see if I'm just being paranoid. So, is there any way I can get help for free?

Answer 1

This link has more than just tips for overcoming hypochondria such as cyberchondria, Internet research into illnesses but you may have already seen it. If not, here it is, and if so this part needs to be re-read and emphasized:

"Keep a journal describing symptoms or events that led to your anxiety or panic attacks, or episodes of illness worry. This should allow you to see a closer link between your symptoms and external events.
Try to restrict or put a time limit on your internet medical research, reading of medical books, or self-checking behaviors as they tend to increase illness worries.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a good night sleep, well-balanced diet and a positive outlook. A good tip is to follow the PEAS tool sometimes used to combat depression: Pleasure, Exercise, Achievement and Socializing - try to add an aspect of each to daily activities.
Practice relaxation techniques, such as breathing, meditation or other methods as they help to decrease anxiety and the effects of stress.
Try to interrupt your worries with activities that will fully engage your attention and shift it away from illness; for example, hobbies, word or number games, exercise or walking, talking with a humorous friend, or recalling happy memories.
Think about alternative explanations for your physical sensations that might include stress or normal bodily changes.
Break your habits of worrying one step at a time."

Only 1%-5% of the population has hypochondria and this term is flung at people daily like "stop being paranoid"

Answer 2

I have a feeling that the doctor visit won't help much, unless it's a phsychiatrist.

But it's a good question - whether you can get checked out on the sly for free. I've never heard of that though. Look in the phone book and call up as many local places as you can and ask them. At least the phone call is free. There might be hotlines in the phone book too, which provide health information and places to go that you're looking for.

Answer 3

The problem is with doctors is they dont always get things right, ive been to the doctors plenty of times and theyve been wrong about things so if they diagnosed somone as a hypochondriac and they were wrong it could cause even more problems, but if they were right then i think it is a good idea cause someone who is needs help.

Answer 4

I'll try and help on the 1st question. The only way you will find out if you are a hypochondriac is if someone tells you this, or if you get prescribed a medication and you do research and discover that it is a sugar pill. Most doctors do not tell patients that they are hypocondriacs because they fear that there will be a real problem that will get missed.

Answer 5

I would tell your parents you have a minor ailment, such as cramps or a stomach ache and tell them you need to see your family doctor. that doctor can ask you questions about you general state of health and direct you to the appropriate clinic in your area.