Psychotherapeutic strategies in hypochondriasis: a clinical study

Thirty-six patients who had hypochondriacal neurosis for six months or longer were treated with individual psychotherapy. The therapy focused mainly on: accurate information about the psychophysiologic processes involved, emphasis on the innocuousness of the phenomena and the good prognosis, and making the patient aware of his selective perception. Physical examinations were repeated with reassurance when necessary and antianxiety medication was prescribed when appropriate. A substantial proportion of patients recovered or improved and the improvement was maintained on follow-up.