Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

I am having trouble with hives. Please help!

Answer

You need to see a physician, possibly an allergist, since hives are often an allergic reaction which can be treated with a variety of medications to give you relief. In addition, you might want to pay attention to see if you tend to get hives more frequently when you're stressed. If so, in addition to the medical attention, you might want to get with a counselor to learn some techniques for relaxation to help you work a little better with stress.

01/27/99

Richard B. Patterson is a clinical psychologist in private practice in El Paso, TX. He is the author of three books on psychology and spirituality.