Health anxiety, also known as illness anxiety disorder or hypochondriasis, is a condition in which a person becomes excessively preoccupied with the idea that they have a serious medical condition, despite little or no evidence supporting it. If you are concerned that you might have health anxiety, here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:
Excessive worry about health: Constantly worrying about having a serious illness or disease, even when there is no clear reason to believe so.
Frequent checking of symptoms: Frequently checking your body for signs of illness, such as lumps, pains, or other physical sensations, and becoming overly focused on minor bodily changes.
Repeatedly seeking reassurance: Regularly seeking reassurance from friends, family, or healthcare professionals that you are not seriously ill, but finding it hard to believe or accept their reassurances.
Overuse of health-related resources: Frequently visiting doctors, specialists, or medical websites in search of information about potential illnesses, often leading to "cyberchondria."
Avoidance behaviors: Avoiding situations or places that might trigger health-related anxiety, such as hospitals or medical discussions.
Excessive use of medical tests: Requesting numerous medical tests or imaging scans to confirm or rule out medical conditions, despite minimal symptoms or indications of illness.
High levels of anxiety: Feeling anxious, tense, or restless due to health concerns, which may interfere with daily activities and relationships.
Misinterpretation of bodily sensations: Overinterpreting normal bodily sensations as signs of serious illness.
Preoccupation with illness in media: Constantly researching or watching media content about illnesses, diseases, and medical conditions, leading to increased anxiety.
Health-related rituals: Engaging in rituals or compulsions related to health, such as excessive handwashing or sterilization.
If you notice several of these signs and they are causing distress or interfering with your daily life, it's essential to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy) and, in some cases, medication to manage anxiety symptoms.
Keep in mind that experiencing some concern about your health is normal, but when it becomes overwhelming and interferes with your life, it's essential to address the issue with the help of a qualified professional.