Psychasthenia is a psychological disorder characterized by a wide range of symptoms affecting the person's cognitive functioning, emotional state, and overall mental well-being. It is often considered a form of anxiety disorder and falls under the category of neuroses.
Individuals suffering from psychasthenia experience persistent feelings of fear, worry, and apprehension, usually accompanied by obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors. These obsessions and compulsions often revolve around themes of cleanliness, orderliness, or excessive doubting, leading to significant distress and interference in their daily lives.
Common symptoms of psychasthenia include excessive anxiety, fear of losing control, constant doubts or indecisiveness, perfectionism, fear of contamination or germs, and repetitive rituals or compulsive actions aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a perceived threat. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances may also be present.
Psychasthenia is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive psychological evaluation, which may involve interviews, self-report questionnaires, and observations. Treatment for psychasthenia often combines psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), with medication management, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other anti-anxiety medications.
Overall, psychasthenia is a complex disorder that can significantly impact an individual's daily life and functioning. It requires proper diagnosis and tailored treatment to help individuals manage and alleviate symptoms, enabling them to live a more fulfilling life.
