Mostly All in the Mind

Besides hypochondriasis--an obsessive preoccupation with a particular illness based on misinterpretation of bodily sensations--there are several other conditions affecting the body that can originate in the mind.

* Psychosomatic disorder: Actual physical disorders that can be diagnosed but are exacerbated by stress.

* Somatization disorder: Vague physical complaints that last for several years but cannot be diagnosed.

* Munchausen syndrome: Patients who lie pathologically about symptoms and illness, devoting themselves to trying to get admitted or remain in hospitals.

* Malingering: The intentional production of false or exaggerated symptoms for a specific purpose, such as avoiding work or fraudulently obtaining money or medication.