Symptom 9: Tendency to Self-Diagnose
In an age where information is at our fingertips, the allure of self-diagnosis is strong. For someone with SSD, this allure can be almost irresistible. The immediacy of online medical platforms and forums can make them feel empowered, but this empowerment can quickly turn to entrapment as they begin to align with the direst of diagnoses they come across.
While there’s a wealth of accurate medical information online, there’s also a fair share of misinformation. For someone prone to self-diagnosis, this can be perilous. They may latch onto rare conditions or misinterpret symptoms, leading to a spiraling sense of panic and an ever-growing list of perceived illnesses.
When one starts with a belief (or fear) and looks for evidence to support it, they often find it. This confirmation bias is especially potent in the realm of health. A person with a tendency to self-diagnose might unconsciously cherry-pick information that aligns with their worst fears, further cementing their beliefs about having a particular condition.
Often, this self-diagnosis is followed by seeking reassurance from medical professionals. While on the surface, this might seem like a quest for clarity, it can sometimes be a double bind. If the doctor’s diagnosis aligns with their beliefs, it confirms their worst fears. If it doesn’t, they might dismiss the professional opinion, considering it a misdiagnosis.
Breaking the cycle of self-diagnosis requires guidance and sometimes professional intervention. By understanding the underlying anxieties and the triggers, individuals can be equipped with strategies to approach health concerns in a balanced way. Trust in medical professionals and avoidance of random symptom-checking online can be crucial steps on the road to balanced health perspectives. (9)
