I have health anxiety i constantlyfear of getting lofe threatening diseases - #10663

You are suffering from health anxiety also called as somatic ocd Daily Routine to Heal Anxiety Morning:

Walk in sunlight for 20 minutes

Do 10 mins deep breathing

Avoid caffeine after 4 pm

Night:

Avoid phone 1 hour before bed

Listen to calming audio (like on the Headspace or YouTube: “guided anxiety sleep”)

If thoughts come: write them in a diary, then close the diary

And you are not risk of getting rabies Kindly visit a psychiatrist for anxiety medication and counselling to get proper treatment

Hello Mr. Abhi. As you suspected, your excessive worries related to ill health and repetitive remedial behaviors and reassurance seeking point towards possible diagnosis of Hypochondriasis/ Health anxiety disorder. These repetitive reassurance behaviors will only relieve you off anxiety for a brief period of time but in the long run, it only worsens the condition. You might require medications like SSRIs and therapy for this condition. Please seek psychiatric help either online or in-person. Regards, Dr. Charan Kumar Pottem, MD Psychiatry (NIMHANS).

With health anxiety, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by concerns about potential threats like rabies, even when evidence suggests there’s minimal risk. Given your description, several factors indicate a low risk of rabies transmission. The crucial points: the dog that licked you was healthy and remains alive, suggesting it wasn’t rabid when the incident occurred. Moreover, rabies transmission typically requires a more direct route of entry, such as a bite where saliva comes in contact with broken skin or mucous membranes. You’ve also been vaccinated against rabies, which further reduces any residual risk. Still, your distress is real, and it’s important to address it. Excessive salivation could be a physical response fueled by anxiety itself rather than an actual symptom of rabies. Anxiety often manifests physically, leading to symptoms like increased saliva production, palpitations, or tension. To manage your health anxiety, consider a few approaches: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in helping to reframe anxious thoughts, or mindfulness practices can help refocus your mind to the present moment, reducing the grip of fear. Scheduling regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can also help quell anxieties by providing reassurance based on clinical assessments. If anxiety remains intense, discussing medication options with your doctor could offer additional relief. Remember to engage in routine activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, like physical exercise, balanced sleep, and connecting with supportive friends or loved ones, which can be therapeutic and helpful in alleviating persistent worry.