‘These symptoms are 100 per cent symptoms of AIDS’: Trauma and health anxiety in later life – A case study

Abstract

This case study presents the delivery of brief cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for health anxiety, in the context of older age. Elements of standard CBT for health anxiety and psychoeducation techniques were employed. A collaborative case formulation adapted for older clients, comprising two models were developed and used as a roadmap for intervention. Psychometric assessment was conducted across six-time points alongside a narrative assessment of the client’s mental health needs. A detailed description of the case is presented, including an outline of the treatment and set of interventions employed, informed by the formulation. This case study calls for a nuanced understanding of health anxiety and highlights the importance of considering trauma and individualised approaches in clinical practice.