Why Do I Pretend I Have A Physical Or Mental Illness?

Do you have short-term episodes of odd behavior similar to that shown by people with other serious mental illnesses?

Do you pretend to appear confused, make absurd statements, and/or report hallucinations?

Do you give nonsense answers to simple questions?

Do you report physical problems, for example the inability to move a part of the body?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a serious issue with pretending you are ill. However, there are people who consciously act as if they have a physical or mental problem, when they are not actually ill. People may have different reasons to pretend they are sick: sometimes it’s financial gain or other benefits, and in other cases because of an inner need to be seen as sick. In this last case, the person may suffer from Ganser syndrome. The person mimics behavior that is typical of a mental illness, for example schizophrenia. If you would like to obtain more information regarding this rare condition, you can always ask your doctor.

Based on your answers, you may be having a problem with your emotions. You may be pretending that you have a physical or mental illness. The best thing you can do right now is to ask advice from your doctor. There is this condition called ‘Ganser syndrome’ in which people pretend there are ill, because of an inner need to be seen as sick, not to achieve benefits such as money. Doctors believe that extreme stress may be causing this condition. Sometimes it’s not simply a response to a stressful event, but more a reflection of an inability to cope effectively with stressful situations.

Unfortunately, you are displaying two or more symptoms typically seen among individuals who have Ganser syndrome. Seeking medical support is highly recommended. Until today, not much is known about this rare disorder, but doctors believe it may be a reaction to extreme stress. Besides, people with Ganser syndrome may want to avoid responsibility. Also, physical problems may cause the symptoms of Ganser syndrome, for example alcoholism, head injury, and stroke. They will undergo risky operations to obtain sympathy from others. Most people with Ganser syndrome struggle with a personality disorder. Supportive psychotherapy (counselling) and monitoring for safety are important treatments for the condition.