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  |  General Health  |  Mental Health  |  Sickness phobia
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Sickness phobia

by Dr Sarah Brewer

question
I suffer very badly from a 'sick phobia'. I'm frightened I will get ill from a bug, and I would rather die than have to go through it. My daughter has just had a flu, which lasted 4 days, and I've handled it very badly. It has left me worrying that I might get it too. Can you tell me how I can prevent myself from getting it? I'm always washing my hands and trying to keep everything very clean.

answer
You do seem to have a severe phobia, which needs treatment. Do pluck up courage to see your doctor immediately, as he or she can refer you to a cognitive behavioural therapist, and prescribe drugs to reduce anxiety or depression, if necessary.

You will also find it helpful to contact No Panic, the National Charity that helps people with all types of anxiety disorders. They received over 35,000 calls on their helpline last year and can help advise you on how to seek help.

Phone freephone 0808 808 0545, 10.00am to 10.00pm on any day, to speak to a trained volunteer. You can also visit www.nopanic.org.uk.
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