I always feel like I've been infected with an unknown virus, but I can't trust the tests?

In the absence of definitive confirmation, some individuals exhibit a carefree and content demeanor, living to advanced ages, while others exhibit persistent anxiety, questioning the accuracy of diagnostic equipment or the proficiency of medical practitioners. Still others experience profound self-doubt, to the extent that they are unable to engage in basic activities such as eating or sleeping.

The disruption to your quality of life is significant. In the absence of a definitive diagnosis, it is reasonable to assume that the individual is safe and not in any danger. This assumption can be considered a reasonable level of certainty. However, excessive worry may have an adverse impact on one's life.

It is possible that you have engaged in unsafe sexual intercourse in the past, thereby placing yourself at risk. You are experiencing significant distress regarding past sexual encounters and may have contracted a sexually transmitted infection. It is understandable that this is a highly distressing experience, yet there is no definitive diagnosis to suggest this.

Given that numerous tests have been conducted and a medical professional has stated that no illness is present, it is plausible that the underlying issue stems from a pervasive sense of doubt. When an individual consistently questions their own abilities, it can lead to a lack of self-assurance and significant distress.

Even in the absence of a positive test result, the possibility remains that the virus is highly adaptive or has undergone mutation, with the potential to threaten one's health at any time. This can give rise to significant distress and a lack of trust in oneself and others.

If feasible, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to ascertain the underlying cause of the distress. It is plausible that this is a matter worthy of contemplation, given that our suffering frequently stems from our perception of reality. It is recommended that you consult with a counselor regarding your recent experiences, particularly if this suspicion of illness has persisted for over a month. It is important to recognize and address the issue, and to practice relaxation techniques. Best wishes to you.

Please clarify the question.

Hello, question asker! I'm so happy to answer your question.

First, give the questioner a warm hug and some strength. The good news is that you're not sick, so you definitely can't be infected. I hope that the questioner can get out of their current state of helplessness. From the questioner's description, it can be seen that the questioner has had unsafe sex in the past and is worried that they have contracted HIV.

Even after lots of tests and a diagnosis that you're not sick, you still have this feeling that you might have a mutated form of HIV. It can be really tough to feel helpless and in pain like that, right?

From what we've seen recently, it seems like the questioner might be struggling with hypochondriasis. So, what exactly is hypochondriasis?

Hypochondriasis, also known as hypochondriacal neurosis, is a condition that mainly affects patients who worry or believe that they have one or more serious physical illnesses. These patients often complain of physical symptoms, seek medical treatment repeatedly, and cannot allay their concerns despite repeated negative medical tests and medical explanations from doctors that there is no corresponding illness. This disease often occurs before the age of 50 and has a chronic fluctuating course. It can occur in both men and women.

It sure seems like the questioner might be a hypochondriac! It would be great if they could take a look at their own situation to see if that's the case.

So, why does the questioner have hypochondriasis? Well, there are a few possible reasons.

Let's talk about the personality basis.

It's totally normal to worry about your health. We all do it! But if you find yourself worrying about things that don't seem to have a basis in reality, it might be a sign that you're developing hypochondriasis. This is when you start to worry about things like isolation, stubbornness, introversion, excessive focus on oneself, sensitivity, self-centeredness, narcissism, narrow interests, timidity, vulnerability, and suggestibility.

2. Social environmental factors

It's totally normal to feel worried when you hear that a loved one has passed away from an illness. It can even make you think that you might be next! Sometimes, doctors might make comments that seem a bit insensitive, or you might have lots of tests done for no reason. It's also possible that you've had unnecessary or excessive treatment, or even surgery. All of these things can contribute to developing hypochondriasis.

3. Somatic factors

It's totally normal for people in their teens or menopause to experience some changes in how they feel. They might have palpitations, hot flashes, or even changes in their reproductive organs. It's okay if they think these changes are something more serious. It can contribute to developing hypochondriasis.

4. Psychological factors

Some folks believe that the disease is caused by how they perceive and think about things. The way the hypochondriac's mind works can lead them to make sense of some physical sensations and changes in ways that aren't quite right, which can then lead to ideas that they might have an illness.

It's always a good idea to check in with yourself to see if you might be experiencing any of these symptoms. If you do, it could be a sign that you're dealing with hypochondriasis. Of course, the best way to know for sure is to chat with a healthcare professional at the hospital's psychiatric department.

It's totally understandable that people who are hypochondriacal might suspect they have incurable diseases like HIV or cancer. It's often a way of coping with the fear of death, which can extend to the fear of disease.

The hypochondriac gives a suspicious interpretation to normal physiological phenomena, does not believe in the test results, does not believe in the doctor's explanations, and repeatedly seeks medical treatment and examination. This can be really tough! It's accompanied by a strong sense of anxiety and fear. Mental depression, reticence, fear and anxiety, unable to free oneself, often talking about the symptoms of the disease is unbearable, resulting in insomnia, palpitations, cold sweat, dizziness and other symptoms. Some even believe that death is at hand and the world has come to an end.

If someone suspects they have an infectious disease, they might feel really guilty and even ask their loved ones to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases.

So, how can we help ourselves when we notice our own suspicious behavior?

The good news is that the treatment of the disease is generally based on psychological treatment, which is then supplemented by drug treatment.

Psychotherapy is a great option!

It's so important to seek help from a professional psychologist. Supportive psychotherapy is the best approach. It's really helpful to establish a good relationship with the doctor. Once you've built up trust, you can start to understand that your illness is not a physical illness, but a psychological disorder. It's also a great idea to make some changes to your environment, lifestyle, and social activities. You can even do something fun and rewarding to help you feel better!

Let's talk about drug treatment.

If you're dealing with emotional symptoms like depression or anxiety, drug treatment is usually the way to go. But if your doctor says you're not that serious, you can skip the drugs and focus on psychological treatment instead.

If your mind is always in a state of physical tension and anxiety, it can be really easy to suffer from hypochondria. So, it's really important to avoid mental trauma and long-term negative emotions. Try to maintain mental health and emotional stability, and remember to enjoy the good things in life!

It's so important to cultivate a thoughtful, confident, self-respecting, and easygoing personality. Paying attention to training your sensory abilities and being aware of all kinds of information and stimuli within your body is also key.

It's best to avoid reading medical and health-related books and other promotional materials. This is an important principle for preventing hypochondria and even psychological treatment. People without a medical foundation who casually read these materials might make things worse for the questioner.

It's so important to eliminate those bad habits of constantly paying attention to yourself, self-examination, and self-suggestion. Unfounded worries and doubts themselves are a kind of bad psychological factor that can really trigger many physical and mental diseases.

I really hope my answer helps the questioner!

Dear Question Owner, Thank you for your inquiry. Best regards, [Name] [Title] [Company]

It appears that your poor sexual conduct has resulted in significant distress.

Despite having undergone numerous tests, you remain apprehensive and panicky, do you not?

I am unaware of your age. Could you please elaborate on how this anxiety is affecting your life, work, and

Please describe the impact of interpersonal relationships on your situation.

The cause of this state of panic and anxiety may be related to a symptom described in psychology.

Please clarify whether this is related to hypochondriasis.

Please refer to the following explanation from Baidu:

Hypochondriasis is also referred to as hypochondriacal neurosis and is currently classified as a somatoform disorder.

It primarily applies to patients who express concerns or believe they have one or more significant physical ailments. These individuals often present with physical symptoms.

Despite repeated negative medical tests and medical explanations from doctors that there is no corresponding disease, the patient continues to make repeated medical visits.

It is often the case that the patient's concerns cannot be dispelled, and they are frequently accompanied by anxiety or depression. The disease usually develops before the age of 50.

This is a chronic, fluctuating disease course that can affect both men and women.

Causes:

Personality-based

Personality traits such as isolation, stubbornness, introversion, excessive focus on oneself, sensitivity, self-centeredness, and narcissism can contribute to the development of hypochondriasis.

Personality traits such as narrow interests, timidity, fragility, and suggestibility can contribute to the development of hypochondriasis.

2. Social Environmental Factors

Upon learning that a relative or friend has died of a serious illness, they will suspect that they are at risk of developing the same condition.

Individuals who have observed a family member or acquaintance succumbing to liver cancer may experience discomfort in the liver area.

Inappropriate remarks by medical professionals, excessive medical equipment testing, and unnecessary and excessive treatment are also contributing factors.

Inappropriate surgical procedures, among other factors, may contribute to the development of a suspicion of illness.

It should be noted that individuals in the adolescent or menopausal stages of life may experience fluctuations in bodily sensations.

Furthermore, symptoms of autonomic instability, such as palpitations, development or atrophy of the reproductive organs,

Inappropriate interpretations of these physiological processes may result in the formation of an illness hypothesis.

4. Psychological Factors

Some individuals adhere to the belief that disease is caused by aberrant perception and cognition.

The patient's cognitive system may interpret certain somatic sensations and changes inappropriately, which could lead to the development of a suspicion of illness.

It should be noted that

From a psychoanalytic perspective,

Individuals with hypochondriasis tend to have weaker constitutions and more health issues in their early years. They often have had near-death experiences due to serious illness.

This is therefore a manifestation of the activation of early traumatic knots, and is further explained by the body's excessive defense.

This is a method of coping with stress caused by external factors.

What is the recommended course of treatment?

The psychoanalytic school maintains that

Psychoanalysis employs techniques such as free association and dream interpretation to assist patients with hypochondriasis.

This approach helps patients access the subconscious mind, enabling them to recognize the connection between their current excessive worry and anxiety and early childhood trauma.

The treatment addresses the underlying trauma, which results in the natural disappearance of symptoms.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

This approach helps patients identify and correct automatic thoughts and distorted cognitions through embedding and learning.

Replace distorted beliefs with reasonable beliefs to achieve cognitive restructuring, alleviate symptoms, and better manage emotions.

The UP technique is a specialized approach to treating mood disorders that integrates techniques such as cognitive mindfulness.

By identifying the underlying anxiety and the distorted perceptions associated with it,

It is possible to interrupt the conditioned reflexes caused by the neural pathways by training sensory perception. (There is a somatic reaction and distorted perception behind anxiety.

This creates a vicious cycle.

I wish you the best of luck.

I am Counselor Yao, and I am here to continue supporting you. Keep up the good work.

Dear questioner, I'm so excited to chat with you!

I'm Yi Ming, a heart exploration coach, and I'm here to help!

I think many people have suspected they are ill when they have some physical symptoms, and I'm here to help!

It's totally normal to be suspicious in life!

The good news is that many people will feel relieved after undergoing the corresponding tests.

However, when we have unsafe sex, the more we think about it, the more anxious we become. But don't worry! We are happy to chat with you and we're excited to help you in any way we can!

1. Get to know anxiety!

"Anxiety is manifested as a threat from any uncertainty."

The mental health expert once made this analogy, and it was so inspiring!

We're caught in quicksand, but we're going to get out of it!

Running, jumping, struggling, but going deeper and deeper!

This is why we have the exciting opportunity to work through our anxiety and fear!

So you test again and again, and you don't trust the test.

While this repeated confirmation may make us feel a little better at the time, the more frequent testing actually makes our anxiety worse!

So, what can we do now?

2. Commitment and acceptance therapy is a great way to distinguish between imagination and reality!

We are constantly on the lookout for new experiences! Whether it is going for a test or something else happens in life, such as our young nephew coming into contact with our blood, we are excited to see what the future holds.

This is conceptualized past and feared future.

"It refers to constantly thinking about past mistakes or a frightening future due to cognitive fusion and experiential avoidance, which leads to people not being able to feel the present moment, losing direct and real experience of the here and now, and new possibilities being excluded." But there's a solution!

Whenever these thoughts arise, instead of examining them, tell yourself:

I have an idea right now!

This is a great way to distinguish between thoughts and facts!

Those disasters are just our thoughts!

The good news is that your test results are normal, and your nephew is also healthy!

3. Focus on the present and try to record it!

I'm really excited to find out if this idea has a big impact on your life!

And the best part is, we can use recording to exercise self-discipline and make comparisons!

For example:

It's time to start recording those worries!

This is called confirmation behavior, and it's a great way to confirm what you already know!

Time to confirm!

The great news is that you can even express the level of anxiety as a percentage!

A record like this is a fantastic way to keep on top of what you're doing and to help you stay disciplined.

For example, if we used to test once a month, we can absolutely stick to testing once every one and a half months!

Keeping a record is a great way to help us return to rational thinking!

If we don't trust the tests, there's no reason we can't skip them!

Could it be that our distrust of testing is simply our own idea?

We want to feel completely sure and in control!

Or, even better, actively seek help from a counselor to see our own thoughts! Because, guess what? Imagined disasters can also hurt us.

Or, even better, actively seek help from a psychologist to see our own thoughts! Because imagined disasters can also hurt us, but we can overcome them together!

There are so many other practical methods you can try! For example, you can find people to play with and things to do to distract your attention from yourself and focus it on the outside world.

Or you can try exercise and meditation, which are really effective!

Just share these!

I wish you the absolute best!

The world and I love you!

Good day, question asker!

After reading your question, I can see how you might be feeling confused. I just wanted to say that I'm here for you and I'm sending you a warm hug.

I appreciate your sharing your concerns with me. It seems that you are facing a few challenges.

I had unprotected sex a year and a half ago and am concerned that I may have been exposed to HIV.

2. Despite having been tested on numerous occasions, I still have this persistent feeling that I might be infected.

3. I am concerned that I may have infected my loved ones, and although I have tested many times, I am unsure if the results are accurate, which is causing me some anxiety.

A straightforward examination of the issue at hand reveals the following:

1. It is possible that the questioner may have grown up with their parents taking care of them in every way, while their parents may have focused on meeting their material needs to the exclusion of their emotional needs, which could have resulted in the questioner becoming sensitive, suspicious, and insecure. With regard to the question of whether or not there is an infection, it seems that the focus is on whether or not there is an illness, but in reality, it may be the questioner's own acceptance of their suspicious personality that needs to be addressed.

2. It is related to negative self-suggestions. It is possible that the questioner may have had some unfortunate experiences in the past, made some misguided decisions, and developed a certain degree of skepticism towards others' trust and goodwill. As a result, they have become more cautious and reserved in life. The doctor has tested it for more than a year, and if it were truly infected, the symptoms would have manifested by now, but that does not seem to be the case.

The questioner expressed concern about the possibility of infection. However, it seems that he is more troubled by the experience itself and the discrepancy between his actions and thoughts and his moral values. He has some reservations about this.

3. It is possible that the questioner may have a cognitive bias. They may generalize from a single point to the whole, or jump to conclusions. It is important to remember that sexual behavior itself is not a problem, and infection requires the joint action of many conditions. It is understandable that the questioner may subjectively believe that some of their imagined symptoms have nothing to do with HIV and may be caused by other factors. However, it is crucial to recognize that they are connecting cause and effect themselves, but in fact, their understanding of the situation itself is not objective and has no basis.

4. The questioner may be sensitive and suspicious, have strong moral values, and be mentally exhausted.

We respectfully propose the following solutions:

It might be helpful to accept yourself unconditionally, remind yourself that it's already in the past, and consider that if you really got infected, the symptoms would have already shown up. This could help to ease your concerns.

(2) It might be helpful to let go of the heavy moral burden and to try to see this as a very natural thing, with not much right or wrong involved.

(3) It might be helpful to try not to dwell on things too much, to have faith in the truth, and to recognize that suspicion often stems from one's own concerns and lack of assurance.

(4) It might be helpful to try to stop the internal mental conflict and excessive thinking.

You might find it helpful to find a quiet place, close your eyes, and meditate for a while with a calm mind, allowing your mind's wandering thoughts to subside.

You might consider taking a trip, trying a new hobby, or going for a walk to relax.

I hope my answer is helpful. I wish you the best in moving forward from this challenging situation and a bright future ahead. The world is rooting for you ?

From your message, it is evident that you, who engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse approximately a year and a half ago, are concerned about the potential of contracting HIV. This concern has subsequently manifested as distress.

One can only imagine the distress and despair you have endured throughout this ordeal. It is our sincere hope that the following insights will provide some measure of solace and offer new perspectives for your consideration.

1. There is considerable overlap between the phenomena described by the questioner and the symptom table of "AIDS fear" (hereinafter referred to as [AIDS fear]).

[AIDS phobia] is a comprehensive psychological disorder that is characterized by a strong fear of AIDS, accompanied by various psychological symptoms and abnormal behaviors, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and hypochondriasis.

The most common manifestations of AIDS-related fear are as follows:

1. Somatization symptoms

Patients frequently present with a constellation of somatic symptoms, including fatigue, sweating, rash, muscle pain, intermittent diarrhea, mild intermittent lymph node enlargement, sore throat, mild weight loss, mild oral infection, and dizziness.

2. Obsessive symptoms

Such thoughts are manifested by repeated contemplation of previous risky behaviors, with a particular focus on images or ideas of AIDS and death, including past experiences of risky behavior and threats to family members or loved ones.

In order to achieve psychological comfort, they repeatedly seek medical treatment, thereby receiving repeated reassurance that they are not infected.

3. Depressive symptoms

Such manifestations may include depression, a loss of interest in life and work, and even an inability to work, a refusal to interact with others, difficulties in family life, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal behavior. Anxiety symptoms include difficulty sleeping, an inability to relax, difficulty calming down and doing things, and feelings of panic.

Anxiety can precipitate a constellation of somatic symptoms, particularly when there is a correlation with the symptoms of AIDS.

Fourthly, somatoform symptoms

Those who are concerned that they may have contracted AIDS will often compare their symptoms with those associated with the disease. Once similarities are identified, they may become convinced that they have indeed contracted the disease.

Patients may manifest one or any combination of the aforementioned symptoms.

2. It is recommended to focus on the fear itself, rather than on the question of whether or not one has contracted AIDS.

From a factual perspective, the test result has already demonstrated that the patient is negative. However, the patient continues to experience doubt regarding this result.

At this juncture, it may be beneficial to direct attention to the underlying fear.

It would be beneficial to attempt to think in the following manner:

What are the underlying fears that drive our behaviors, and what is the underlying message that we are communicating through our actions?

An alternative hypothesis is that:

Engaging in unsafe sexual intercourse a year and a half ago is something that should be regarded with shame.

A life with unprotected sexual intercourse is a challenging one to navigate.

...

This will facilitate the identification of the underlying issues in one's life, rather than becoming mired in the pervasive concern surrounding AIDS.

3. It is essential to discern the underlying essence of AIDS fear, to emerge from its shadow, and to embrace a new life.

Those afflicted with AIDS-phobia frequently experience a considerable degree of stress in their lives, and AIDS-phobia represents a coping mechanism for this stress. Addressing life's challenges directly and effectively managing stress are essential for resolving this issue.

There are numerous methods for stress reduction. The following are a few examples:

1. It is recommended that the individual maintain an emotional diary.

1) The emotional event that occurred today was as follows:

The test results were negative once more.

2) What emotions were experienced during the process, and what physical sensations were present?

The emotional state manifested as frustration and panic.

The subject exhibited physical symptoms, including trembling and perspiration.

3) What were the thoughts that occurred to you at the time of the incident?

One is prompted to inquire why a condom was not utilized at the time in question, approximately a year and a half ago.

One might inquire as to the source of the confusion that was experienced at the time.

4) Please describe your immediate response to the situation.

I experienced feelings of self-blame, guilt, remorse, and a desire to remove myself from the situation.

5) What was the outcome?

As a result of the fear of contracting HIV, they are unable to take action.

2. It is advisable to seek support from trusted individuals in one's immediate circle.

Individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS are frequently reluctant to discuss their past sexual experiences, which may have resulted in their infection. This reluctance can contribute to feelings of social isolation and loneliness.

It is therefore important to improve interpersonal relationships. One should attempt to find a trusted friend and, rather than immediately mentioning one's inner turmoil, endeavor to establish a relatively stable relationship with others and seek the warmth of interpersonal relationships.

Ultimately, this will assist in navigating the challenging periods.

In the event that such social support is unavailable, it is advisable to seek professional assistance if feasible. With the guidance of a psychologist, it is possible to overcome psychological distress and embark on a new life.

In this capacity, I am a psychologist who does not explore human nature, but only cares for the human heart. I extend my best wishes to you.

In this capacity, I am a psychologist who does not delve into the intricacies of human nature but rather endeavors to alleviate the distress experienced by my patients. I extend my sincerest blessings to you.

Dear Sir/Madam, Please accept this cordial greeting. Best regards,

Please explain why you are so convinced that you have HIV. How long have you been in this painful and unsettling situation?

You have engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse in the past, and subsequent symptoms have manifested.

This leads to feelings of doubt and anxiety, prompting repeated visits to the hospital for tests.

Despite the doctor's assertion that there is no underlying issue, you remain uncertain about your diagnosis.

To be frank, could it be that there are other factors at play that contribute to your certainty that the individual with whom you engaged in sexual intercourse is afflicted, or that you are unable to accept your own past behavior?

I am aware that you are already familiar with the early symptoms of HIV infection. However, you are currently unable to move forward emotionally. One potential solution is hypnotherapy, which could help you revisit those moments and gain clarity.

I am confident that you will succeed in overcoming this challenge and emerge free from pain soon.

Please find the attachment below.

The symptoms of the early stages of HIV infection can be divided into two categories. This is because, from the patient's perspective, during the acute infection period, they sometimes do not notice it. The symptoms of the acute infection period are very non-specific. As a result, it is mainly 4-6 weeks after being infected with HIV that some patients experience fever, general discomfort, headache, nausea, sore throat, myalgia, arthralgia, rash, and enlarged lymph nodes in the nape of the neck.

Regardless of whether treatment is initiated, the symptoms will typically abate within 3-14 days. Following this, a prolonged asymptomatic infection period may ensue, during which the patient may remain asymptomatic for months or years.

The third stage is the stage of systemic lymphadenopathy. At this point, the patient will notice the presence of two or more swollen lymph nodes in locations other than the inguinal lymph nodes. These nodes will be painless and non-tender, and they will persist for a minimum of 12 weeks. It is also possible for some nodes to disappear after one year or to reappear repeatedly.

The disease typically progresses to the fourth stage, which is when it becomes AIDS. There are typically no specific symptoms, but patients may experience repeated and severe opportunistic infections, such as recurrent fever, night sweats, anorexia, weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and frequent colds. In some cases, secondary tumors may also appear. These manifestations indicate that the disease has entered the fourth stage.