April 2024 – August 2024
Background
C.S., a 55-year-old woman, came to me with overwhelming anxiety, convinced she had mouth cancer due to lesions in her mouth. Her past experience with kidney cancer had left her traumatized, despite making a full recovery. In addition to her cancer fears, she had recurrent shingles, which further heightened her health anxiety. Her fear of cancer dominated her thoughts, although no medical evidence supported this.
As both a GP and therapist, I recognized the need to address not only her physical symptoms but also her intense anxiety. During our initial sessions, we discussed her fears and started her on medication for anxiety while exploring the emotional roots of her health concerns. I diagnosed the lesions as shingles, likely brought on by the stress that was weakening her immune system.
Holistic Approach
To help C.S. overcome her health anxiety, I created a personalized treatment plan that combined the right medication with therapy. As both her GP and therapist, I could take a holistic approach, addressing her physical health while guiding her through her emotional struggles. We worked together to manage her anxiety, looking at her diet, lifestyle, and the relationship stresses that were also affecting her well-being.
Challenges and Progress
Over the following weeks, C.S. saw several other healthcare providers due to her anxiety, which led to changes in her medication. Unfortunately, this delayed her progress. When she returned to me, we recommitted to our plan and stayed consistent with the treatment. We continued therapy, focusing on her fears of cancer and death.
By the four-month mark, C.S. made significant progress. Her anxiety had drastically decreased, and she was able to return to work, enjoy her hobbies, and rebuild her relationship with her family. She even began to laugh at some of her earlier worries, something she never thought possible when we first met.
Conclusion
C.S.’s case shows the importance of a holistic approach in managing health anxiety. By combining the right therapy with the correct medication, we were able to make real, lasting improvements in her life. As a GP and therapist, I was able to provide care that addressed both her physical and mental health. Today, C.S. is living a fuller, happier life and has graciously allowed me to share her story to inspire others struggling with health anxiety.
The Bigger Picture
The prevalence of health anxiety in the UK has significantly increased, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. The heightened awareness of illness and the strain on the healthcare system has left many individuals feeling anxious about their health. Unfortunately, the overburdened NHS is struggling to meet the rising demand for mental health services, and it’s becoming more difficult for patients to see a GP. Health anxiety, while debilitating, is often not considered severe enough to be prioritized by secondary care mental health services, where waiting lists are stretched to years due to chronic underfunding and strain. This makes it all the more important for patients to seek timely, holistic care that addresses both their physical and mental health concerns.