How to treat hypochondria
Nov 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, excessive worrying may be caused by factors such as neurotransmitter imbalances, chronic sleep deprivation, adjustment disorders, anxiety with excessive worry, or generalized anxiety disorder. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. In daily life, avoid excessive consumption of coffee and strong tea, and maintain a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits.
Under normal circumstances, excessive worrying may be caused by factors such as neurotransmitter imbalances, chronic sleep deprivation, adjustment disorders, anxiety with excessive worry, or generalized anxiety disorder. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general interventions, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Disruptions in serotonin and dopamine secretion can lead to abnormal emotional regulation in the brain, making individuals prone to overthinking minor issues. Daily consumption of tryptophan-rich foods such as bananas and almonds, combined with 30 minutes of jogging, can promote neurotransmitter synthesis. When feeling overly worried, practicing deep breathing and focusing on the present moment can help.
2. Chronic Sleep Deprivation: Staying up late or suffering from insomnia prevents the brain from adequate rest, reducing cognitive control and leading to persistent rumination. Maintain a consistent bedtime before 11 PM each night, avoid electronic devices one hour before sleeping, and use warm water foot baths to aid sleep.
3. Adjustment Disorder: Experiencing life changes such as job transitions or family conflicts may overwhelm psychological adaptation mechanisms, triggering excessive worry. Patients should follow medical advice when using medications such as lorazepam tablets, alprazolam tablets, or estazolam tablets, while also receiving supportive psychotherapy to address emotional distress.
4. Anxiety Disorder with Excessive Worry: Characterized by excessive concern about daily matters, repetitive thought patterns, palpitations, and difficulty concentrating. Under medical supervision, medications such as sertraline tablets, paroxetine tablets, or fluvoxamine maleate tablets may be prescribed, along with cognitive behavioral therapy to correct negative thinking patterns.
5. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent excessive worry lasting more than six months, involving multiple aspects such as work and health, significantly impairing daily functioning. Treatment requires prescription medications such as venlafaxine extended-release tablets, duloxetine enteric-coated tablets, or mirtazapine tablets, combined with 15 minutes of daily mindfulness meditation to reduce rumination.
Avoid excessive intake of coffee and strong tea, and maintain a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Proactively share thoughts with family and friends to prevent isolation and brooding. Cultivating focused hobbies such as puzzles or calligraphy can help redirect attention. Establishing regular routines and applying scientific interventions can effectively improve states of excessive worrying.
