Ebony Stover is a 59 year-old grandmother who recently had a reoccurrence of breast cancer with metastases to the bone causing persistent pain. She has been treated with medications that result in hot flashes. Prior to the reoccurrence, Ebony had been employed as part-time as a housekeeper but because of her current symptoms she has not been able to work. She is surrounded by her family - especially her daughters and granddaughters - who are a source of comfort to her. For them, Ebony maintains a stoical and hopeful outlook on her prognosis. What would be the appropriate diagnosis to consider for Ebony?

Illness anxiety disorder is a psychiatric condition in which a person is preoccupied with having or developing a serious medical illness. Individuals with this condition may or may not have diagnosed medical conditions, but no serious disease is present in most cases. It is also known as hypochondria or hypochondriasis

Clients with this condition may not have physical symptoms and even if they have symptoms, it may be mild. Oftentimes they believe that normal body sensations or minor symptoms are signs of a bigger health issue.

The cause is not known (idiopathic) but factors like Major life stress,

A severe symptom that is believed to threaten one's health like chest pain and memory issues, history of childhood abuse or neglect.

Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may help treat illness anxiety disorder.