Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Illness anxiety disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/illness-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20373782

  Illness anxiety disorder, sometimes called hypochondriasis or health anxiety, is worrying excessively that you are or may become seriously ill. You may have no physical symptoms. Or you may believe that normal body sensations or minor symptoms are signs of severe illness, even though a thorough medical exam doesn’t reveal a serious medical condition. […] You may experience extreme anxiety that body sensations, such as muscle twitching or fatigue, are associated with a specific, serious illness. This excessive anxiety rather than the physical symptom itself results in severe distress that can disrupt your life. […] Illness anxiety disorder is a long-term condition that can fluctuate in severity. It may increase with age or during times of stress. But psychological counseling (psychotherapy) and sometimes medication can help ease your worries.

• #2 When Health Anxiety Takes Over Your Life

  https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-anxiety

  Could you have health anxiety, or hypochondriasis? Those disorders are now known as somatic symptom disorder and illness anxiety disorder. While both disorders include excessively worrying about your health and having an illness, in somatic symptom disorder physical symptoms are present. […] An individual must be experiencing significant physical symptoms and debilitating worry for at least six months before a somatic symptom disorder diagnosis can be made. […] With illness anxiety disorder, its also a six-month timeline. But the individual has a preoccupation with having or developing an illness, although there arent any physical symptoms present or only mild ones. […] Individuals with illness anxiety disorder are hypervigilant about any changes in their bodies. This may lead them to seek repeated reassurance from medical professionals, or in some cases, avoid care out of fear.

• #3 “Psychology Works” Fact Sheet: Health Anxiety – Canadian Psychological Association

  https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-health-anxiety/

  Estimates suggest that 3-10% of the general population suffer from significant health anxiety. […] It can also be costly to the health care system when it results in high levels of health service utilization. […] People who have problems with anxiety in general may be more likely to also have worries and fears about health and illness. […] Health anxiety may also be related to stressful experiences with illness and death in childhood or during the adult years. […] Research demonstrates that cognitive-behavioural treatment is helpful in reducing fears about having and/or getting a serious illness. […] Studies show that individuals receiving from 6 to 20 treatment sessions generally report decreased illness fear and a reduction in accompanying depression.

• #4 Worried about your health? You may have health anxiety | UCLA Health

  https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/worried-about-your-health-you-may-have-health-anxiety

  Being worried about your health is natural, even more so since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. […] But when the occasional worry turns to irrational fear, it might be cause for concern. You may be experiencing a disorder classified as health anxiety (previously referred to as hypochondria). […] Health anxiety is a common condition, diagnosed in 4% to 5% of people. But experts believe that the disorder often goes undiagnosed and may affect more than 10% of the population. […] Health anxiety is an anxiety disorder characterized by a preoccupation with medical illness. […] People with illness anxiety disorder typically have no medical symptoms but live with the ongoing fear of getting a disease or having a major medical emergency. […] This type of anxiety can be especially confusing because as anxiety levels increase, so do the body’s reactions to that anxiety.

• #5 Health Anxiety | Symptoms & Treatment Explained | THIS WAY UP

  https://thiswayup.org.au/learning-hub/health-anxiety-explained/

  Sometimes however, people can become preoccupied with their health. […] This kind of worry is exhausting and can in fact take a toll on your well-being. If you find it hard to stop worrying about your health, and this worry is impacting your life, then it might helpful to learn more about health anxiety. […] Health anxiety is intense and persistent worry about having a serious illness that is disproportionate to a persons actual risk of developing this illness. […] The key feature of health anxiety is disproportionate worry. […] However, if you find it hard to stop worrying about your health, or your worry is getting in the way of you enjoying life, then it might be helpful to learn more about health anxiety. […] People with health anxiety tend to interpret common physical symptoms, like nausea, tiredness, or headaches, as signs of serious illness.

• #6 Is This the End? Life with Health Anxiety | Right as Rain by UW Medicine

  https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/well/health/living-with-health-anxiety

  Illness anxiety disorder seems to begin in the early or middle part of adulthood and can often worsen with age. […] Reassurance from doctors doesn’t help, in the same way that checking one’s body doesn’t help, because the fundamental problem is about being intolerant of uncertainty or not being able to tolerate negative emotions related to the distressing belief about being or becoming sick. […] This condition can also have a negative effect on your relationships, your career, and your mind. […] Though there isn’t a „cure” per se for this disorder, there are ways to manage your overwhelming and anxious feelings. […] Cognitive behavioral therapy is often used to treat illness anxiety disorder because it encourages you to talk through your fears and anxieties with a psychologist or psychiatrist. […] Your doctor might also suggest taking antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or other mood and anxiety medications to help you manage your feelings and anxieties.

• #7 Can Your Mind Create Symptoms? Physical Effects of Worrying

  https://www.thechelseapsychologyclinic.com/therapy/can-your-mind-create-symptoms/

  Health anxiety can be summed up by an excessive fear of having or contracting a disease. Some of the symptoms to look out for are: You live with an almost constant fear that there’s something wrong with you. You find yourself scouring the internet looking for confirmation that you’re ill. When you read about a disease, you immediately start worrying you might have it. Your health worries have started to interfere in your quality of life. You frequently check for lumps, aches or unusual sensations. You avoid health-related news or conversations, or turn away at the first sight of them. […] If you have health anxiety your symptoms likely come from the mind, but they are still very much real. This is because anxiety affects both our mind and our body with short and long-term effects. […] When we’re in fight-or-flight mode, the body gets flooded with stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Our heart beats faster to send more blood to our muscles and our pupils dilate so that we can see better; alongside a whole range of other physical experiences we feel.

• #8 Is This the End? Life with Health Anxiety | Right as Rain by UW Medicine

  https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/well/health/living-with-health-anxiety

  You may have illness anxiety disorder if you can’t stop obsessing that you might have a serious disease (even when the doc says you’re good). […] Cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants can help you manage the symptoms. […] If you’re experiencing illness anxiety disorder, you simply can’t stop worrying about being seriously unwell — even if you aren’t experiencing any physical symptoms. […] People with illness anxiety disorder are highly aware of physical sensations in their body and are sensitive to changes in how they feel physically. […] They tend to misinterpret physical signs as an indicator of having a serious illness and develop beliefs about what physical feelings mean. […] Some common ones include: Worrying constantly about having serious health conditions, Being easily alarmed about your health status, Feeling little reassurance from doctor visits or good test results, Repeatedly checking yourself for signs of health problems, Becoming so anxious that it’s affecting other aspects of your life, Avoiding medical care or making endless appointments for reassurance, Talking about your health „issues” a lot and seeking reassurance from loved ones, Perusing the internet endlessly for causes of symptoms or possible illnesses.

• #9 Illness anxiety disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/illness-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20373782

  Symptoms of illness anxiety disorder involve preoccupation with the idea that you’re seriously ill, based on normal body sensations (such as a noisy stomach) or minor signs (such as a minor rash). Signs and symptoms may include: Being preoccupied with having or getting a serious disease or health condition. Worrying that minor symptoms or body sensations mean you have a serious illness. Being easily alarmed about your health status. Finding little or no reassurance from doctor visits or negative test results. Worrying excessively about a specific medical condition or your risk of developing a medical condition because it runs in your family. Having so much distress about possible illnesses that it’s hard for you to function. Repeatedly checking your body for signs of illness or disease. Frequently making medical appointments for reassurance or avoiding medical care for fear of being diagnosed with a serious illness. Avoiding people, places or activities for fear of health risks. Constantly talking about your health and possible illnesses. Frequently searching the internet for causes of symptoms or possible illnesses.

• #10 When Health Anxiety Takes Over Your Life

  https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-anxiety

  If you have illness anxiety disorder, you may experience the following: Preoccupation about getting or having an illness. Lack of symptoms or mild symptoms. Anxiety thats disproportionate to symptoms or risk of illness. Hypervigilance about health and repeated checking for symptoms. Avoidance of medical care due to anxiety or frequently seeking medical care, despite repeated reassurance. […] If you have somatic symptom disorder, you may experience the following: One or more persistent physical symptoms that cause distress and interfere with functioning. Excessive anxiety about health and symptoms or excessive time spent thinking of symptoms or seeking medical care. […] Those with illness anxiety disorder have an unrealistic fear of a medical condition. They may view normal body functions as a sign of something more serious.

• #11 Always worried about your health? You may be dealing with health anxiety disorder – Harvard Health

  https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/always-worried-about-your-health-you-may-be-dealing-with-health-anxiety-disorder

  When a doctor reassures you that you don’t have an illness or a test shows you’re healthy, it doesn’t relieve your nervousness. […] Your worries about your health are interfering with your life, family, work, or hobbies and activities. […] While testing may seem like a quick, easy way to alleviate health-related worries, for people in whom health anxiety has become uncontrollable, testing rarely provides lasting relief. […] This avoidance can become very dangerous when someone has a real condition but is afraid to get checked out for fear of bad news such as a person who has appendicitis but puts off going to the doctor. […] The most important thing to know about health anxiety is that it’s a treatable problem. […] It’s common for people with health anxiety to have other mental health conditions as well, such as depression, an anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. […] But ultimately, those who seek help are often able to overcome the constant anxiety.

• #12 Health Anxiety | Symptoms & Treatment Explained | THIS WAY UP

  https://thiswayup.org.au/learning-hub/health-anxiety-explained/

  They often Google their symptoms and seek excessive reassurance from others about their health. […] People with health anxiety also tend to get frequent medical checks or feel too afraid to ever go to the doctor. […] Worrying that mild physical symptoms are signs of a serious disease. […] Worrying about your health even after a medical all clear. […] Feeling very distressed by common or mild physical symptoms. […] Frequently worrying about developing rare or deadly diseases. […] Becoming distressed by health-related media reports. […] Feeling persistently tense and on edge. […] Booking frequent medical appointments. […] Health anxiety isn’t caused by one specific thing. […] Stressful health experiences can also influence the development of health anxiety. […] However, this experience is very normal, and would only classify as health anxiety if the worry is out-of-proportion or interfering with the persons well-being.

• #13 Health anxiety – NHS

  https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/health-anxiety/

  Health anxiety is when you spend so much time worrying you’re ill, or going to get ill, that it starts to take over your life. It’s related to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD. You may have health anxiety if you: constantly worry about your health […] frequently check your body for signs of illness, such as lumps, tingling or pain […] are always asking people for reassurance that you’re not ill […] worry that a doctor or medical tests may have missed something […] obsessively look at health information on the internet or in the media […] avoid anything to do with serious illness, such as medical TV programmes […] act as if you were ill (for example, avoiding physical activities). Anxiety itself can cause symptoms like headaches or a racing heartbeat, and you may mistake these for signs of illness. If a GP diagnoses you with health anxiety, they may refer you for a talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or offer you a medicine for anxiety.

• #14 All About Health Anxiety: What It Is and How Do We Cope with It | Archways Centre for CBT

  https://www.archways.ca/blog/all-about-health-anxiety

  Remember that these symptoms arent imagined; rather, theyre how heightened stress and anxiety levels manifest among people with health anxiety. […] Health anxiety can cause a person to have frequent tension headaches or migraines, which may be triggered or worsened by stress. […] Those with health anxiety also experience symptoms like stomach aches, nausea, bloating, or changes in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation), which arise due to the gut-brain connection and the impact of anxiety on the digestive system. […] Health anxiety may make you more susceptible to experiencing persistent fatigue or exhaustion, as anxiety can disrupt sleep patterns and increase mental and physical strain. […] By acknowledging the physical symptoms and understanding their association with health anxiety, people can gain a better understanding and work towards effective strategies for managing and alleviating their health anxiety.

• #15 Anxiety: Physical Signs and Symptoms

  https://www.health.com/physical-symptoms-anxiety-8600488

  Everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives. […] Many people experience emotional symptoms, such as worrying, restlessness, and trouble concentrating. But, physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, rapid heart rate, and sweating are also common. […] Symptoms of each condition can vary, so knowing the signs can help you identify which type of anxiety you may be experiencing. […] GAD can cause a variety of emotional symptoms like feeling consumed by fear and worry, being overwhelmed, and having persistent fears about everyday things. But this condition may also produce the following physical symptoms: Inability to relax, Getting startled easily, Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, Headaches, Stomachaches, Muscle pain, Difficulty swallowing, Fatigue, Twitching or trembling, Excessive sweating, Shortness of breath, Diarrhea.

• #16 15 Physical Symptoms of Anxiety and Panic Attacks | SELF

  https://www.self.com/story/physical-anxiety-symptoms

  Anxiety can affect your entire body in so many ways. The physical symptoms of anxiety can cause wide-ranging effects on the body. The physical effects of anxiety all have to do with your body’s fight-or-flight response. When a person experiences anxiety, it’s essentially the fight-or-flight system kicking in and saying, Danger! […] The mental health condition can impact the body in a number of ways, and in some cases, potentially cause long-term side effects when left untreated, such as perpetuating another mood disorder like depression, fueling substance abuse, or increasing your risk of various chronic diseases. […] These symptoms typically subside once the anxiety-causing threat has passed. But if you’re dealing with stressful or worrying thoughts on a near-constant basis, you can start to experience chronic physical effects and even face a higher risk of certain health problems, including an increased risk of chronic fatigue, heart attack, or stroke, among other, according to the American Psychological Association (APA).

• #17 Signs You May be a Hypochondriac – The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders

  https://www.centerforanxietydisorders.com/2018/06/15/hypochondriac-signs/

  Health anxiety can actually have its own symptoms because it’s possible for the person to have stomachaches, dizziness, or pain as a result of their overwhelming anxiety. In fact, illness anxiety can take over a hypochondriac’s life to the point that worrying and living in fear are so stressful, the person can become debilitated. […] It is worth noting that many sufferers are unwilling to acknowledge the role anxiety plays in their symptoms. This makes them less likely to seek help from a mental health professional. Often, hypochondriacs are so resistant to the idea that they have anxiety that it takes intervention from loved ones to help them understand that they need assistance.

• #18 15 Physical Symptoms of Anxiety and Panic Attacks | SELF

  https://www.self.com/story/physical-anxiety-symptoms

  Feeling like you’re always tired or worn out is another physical symptom to take note of, according to the NIMH. For starters, that anxiety-activated uptick in stress hormones can keep you revved up on high alert, which can be seriously draining. […] If you have a tough time falling asleep or wake up during the night and can’t doze back off, anxiety could be a culprit, according to the NIMH. Elevated levels of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline make it hard to get a good night’s sleep, since your buzzing body may not be able to relax enough to rest. […] So, in a nutshell, physical symptoms of anxiety can definitely last for days, depending on your personal stressors. But there’s no one-size-fits-all description for how long anxiety-fueled symptoms will stick around. If you’re noticing them on the reg and they’re interfering with your daily life, whether for a few minutes at a time or for long stretches, it’s worth talking with your doctor to try to figure out what’s going on both physically and mentally.

• #19 The Physical Symptoms of Anxiety | Neuro Wellness Spa

  https://neurowellnessspa.com/8-physical-symptoms-of-anxiety-and-how-to-identify-them/

  Symptoms of social anxiety disorder include: Fear of being judged in social situations, Intense fear of talking to strangers, Fear of embarrassing yourself, Anxiety leading up to a social event, Irrational fear or anxiety during social events, Blushing, trembling, or sweating, Upset stomach, nausea, Rapid heartbeat and lightheadedness. […] Panic attacks are a typical symptom of panic disorder. […] Regular panic attacks are a significant indication of a panic disorder, and they come with their own panic symptoms. […] Physical anxiety symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person. […] Many people with anxiety experience changes or inconsistencies in their sleep patterns. […] Anxiety can also result in emotional eating. […] Anxiety disorders can cause you to sweat more than usual, and during a panic attack, you may even feel like you’re sweating from every pore in your body.

• #20 Effects of Anxiety on the Body

  https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/effects-on-body

  Living with chronic anxiety can cause physical stress on your body, especially to your nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, immune, and respiratory systems. […] While perhaps most recognized for behavioral changes, anxiety can also have serious consequences on your physical health. […] You may feel physical symptoms of anxiety, including: rapid breathing or heart rate, lightheadedness or dizziness, abdominal pain, indigestion, chest pain, fatigue, insomnia, headache. […] An excessive or persistent state of anxiety can have a devastating effect on your physical and mental health. […] Symptoms may begin immediately or years later. […] Anxiety disorders can cause rapid heart rate, palpitations, and chest pain. […] You may also be at an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.

• #21 Illness anxiety disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/illness-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20373782

  Illness anxiety disorder usually begins in early or middle adulthood and may get worse with age. Often for older individuals, health-related anxiety may focus on the fear of losing their memory. […] Risk factors for illness anxiety disorder may include: A time of major life stress. Threat of a serious illness that turns out not to be serious. History of abuse as a child. A serious childhood illness or a parent with a serious illness. Personality traits, such as having a tendency toward being a worrier. Excessive health-related internet use. […] Illness anxiety disorder may be associated with: Relationship or family problems because excessive worrying can frustrate others. Work-related performance problems or excessive absences. Problems functioning in daily life, possibly even resulting in disability. Financial problems due to excessive health care visits and medical bills. Having another mental health disorder, such as somatic symptom disorder, other anxiety disorders, depression or a personality disorder.

• #22 Illness Anxiety Disorder (Hypochondria): Symptoms & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9886-illness-anxiety-disorder-hypochondria-hypochondriasis

  People with illness anxiety disorder, sometimes known as hypochondria or hypochondriasis, fear that they have a serious medical condition or that theyre at high risk of becoming ill. […] Even after medical tests show no problems, people with hypochondriasis have trouble focusing on anything other than worrying about being very sick. […] Symptoms of hypochondria include: Avoiding people or places due to worry about catching an illness. […] High level of anxiety about personal health. […] Illness anxiety disorder can disrupt your relationships and life. […] A persistent fear about having a serious illness or developing one is the top symptoms of illness anxiety disorder. […] Illness anxiety disorder is a chronic (ongoing) condition. You may go through periods where you have little or no health anxiety and then it returns.

• #23 How To Break The Cycle Of Health Anxiety | Therapy Central

  https://therapy-central.com/2022/07/04/how-to-break-the-cycle-of-health-anxiety/

  Health anxiety is a mental health issue that involves excessive worry about your health. While its normal to be concerned about your wellbeing occasionally, if you have health anxiety, its likely that you frequently misinterpret body sensations. You might see every signal from your body as a potential threat and may regularly seek reassurance from health professionals. […] Breaking the cycle of health anxiety is possible. The first step is recognising what keeps the health anxiety going and addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, which can be done with the help of a trained therapist. The next step is targeting these thoughts and replacing them with more realistic assumptions that will decrease unhealthy behaviours. […] One of the ways the cycle of health anxiety is maintained is by experiencing unhelpful thoughts. People with health anxiety interpret physical symptoms as threatening and come up with worst-case scenarios.

• #24 BHP Blog – Behavioral Health Partners (BHP) – University of Rochester Medical Center

  https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/behavioral-health-partners/bhp-blog/january-2024/identifying-and-coping-with-health-anxiety

  Most people dont worry much about these symptoms, however if you have health anxiety, hours may be spent worrying and researching symptoms online. […] The difference between occasional worry and health anxiety is that people with health anxiety worry when they have no symptoms or mild symptoms. […] Significant time may be spent researching the symptoms and not being as present in daily activities. […] Often times these symptoms are caused by anxiety including chest discomfort, headaches, dizziness, and heart rate changes. […] The worries may lead to physical sensations, googling symptoms, news in media, and self-diagnosis. […] With health anxiety, there is a false alarm and a misinterpretation of normal bodily sensations as being harmful. […] When a person believes the symptoms are dangerous, it causes anxiety.

• #25 When Health Anxiety Takes Over Your Life

  https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-anxiety

  But those with somatic symptom disorder worry about their health just like someone with illness anxiety disorder, but they experience true physical symptoms. […] In many ways, COVID-19 is the perfect storm for developing a health anxiety disorder, states Duke. I have seen many patients present with increased health anxiety over the course of the pandemic. […] If someone presents with health anxiety, I always insist they seek a medical evaluation first, stresses Duke. If their doctor has ruled out a physical cause and were confident that this is illness anxiety, they will likely benefit from treatments like psychotherapy and mindfulness. […] Health anxiety is tricky because you want to assure that the persons symptoms are being addressed appropriately and at the same time that they are learning to develop more balanced thinking when it comes to their health, adds Duke.

• #26 My terror of living with health anxiety – Mental Health UK

  https://mentalhealth-uk.org/blog/my-terror-of-living-with-health-anxiety/

  I realised a lot of my anxiety was related to being in control, and being fully in control of our health sadly isnt something we can be. […] The main thing I would like to tell anyone who has experienced health anxiety, is that youre not alone. […] My experience actually took place pre-pandemic. But I read that health anxiety has sharply risen post the Covid-19 pandemic, due to the trauma many of us experienced and how health consumed our lives during that period.

• #27 Effects of Anxiety on the Body

  https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/effects-on-body

  Anxiety also affects your excretory and digestive systems. […] You may have stomachaches, nausea, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. […] Anxiety can trigger your flight-or-fight stress response and release a flood of chemicals and hormones, like adrenaline, into your system. […] But if you experience chronic stress, your body never gets the signal to return to regular functioning. […] This can weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to viral infections and frequent illnesses. […] Anxiety causes rapid, shallow breathing. […] Anxiety disorder can cause other symptoms, including: muscle tension, depression, social isolation. […] If you have PTSD, you may experience flashbacks, reliving a traumatic experience over and over. […] Other symptoms of PTSD include nightmares, insomnia, and sadness.

• #28

  https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-overcome-the-endless-checks-of-health-worries

  Have you ever stayed up late at night comparing your symptoms with terrible medical conditions online? Have you felt terrified that fate has finally caught up with you when you notice a spot, rash or odd bump on your body? Do you dread getting test results from your doctor because you know it will be bad news? Of course, its normal to worry about health from time to time, but if you answered Yes to any of these questions, then you might be like the other 979 million in the world who experience illness anxiety disorder either focused on your own health and/or the health of someone you love. […] Unless properly treated, illness anxiety disorder can be chronic and disabling. The constant worries about illness, even after getting reassurance, can interfere with school, work, sleep, relationships, and lead to depression and suicidal thoughts. It can also lead to unnecessary medical tests and procedures when doctors accidentally get caught up trying to reassure patients nothing is wrong.

• #29 Symptoms and Treatment of Hypochondria(Health Anxiety)

  https://kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com/hypochondria-health-anxiety/

  Excessive research (online and in books) to ensure they do or do not have an illness […] Recurring reassurance seeking with family members, friends and health professionals […] Recurring visits to doctors and health professionals about feared illness […] Checking body for presence or absence of feared illness […] Checking body for changes in physical symptoms […] Avoidance of triggers that may increase their fear of illness […] Panic Attacks. […] The Cycle of Hypochondria demonstrates how compulsive behaviors can actually increase the chances of experiencing high levels of anxiety. […] In some situations, the reassurance Laney and Tanya received from medical professionals decreased their anxiety. However, it was only a short period of time until their fears returned, and they felt the need to do more compulsive behaviors.

• #30 Health Anxiety | Symptoms & Treatment Explained | THIS WAY UP

  https://thiswayup.org.au/learning-hub/health-anxiety-explained/

  Effective treatments for health anxiety are available, including Psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and medication. […] CBT is an effective treatment for health anxiety, alone or in conjunction with medication. […] The key behavioural features of health anxiety are avoidance and reassurance seeking. […] Avoidance and reassurance seeking lessen your anxiety briefly, making you feel better in the short-term. […] There are many different strategies that can help you manage the symptoms of health anxiety.

• #31

  https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-overcome-the-endless-checks-of-health-worries

  If, like Lizzy, you have extreme anxieties about being or becoming ill, it might surprise you to learn that your problem is not your health. It is your intolerance of uncertainty about illness and health. […] When you have illness anxiety disorder, your mind loses its ability to be flexible and to imagine the myriad other explanations for your symptoms and, instead, becomes stuck imagining the worst. […] Desiring a guarantee of good health is understandable, but its something that no human can ever have. The best way to overcome your health anxiety is to address the problem of intolerance of uncertainty, and break the cycle that creates avoidance, reassurance-seeking and checking symptoms. […] Checking your body, or someone elses, researching symptoms, talking about symptoms for the sake of comparison, avoiding hearing about serious illness or death, or talking with your medical team just to be sure you are OK all these activities are understandable attempts to reduce your health anxiety, but they will likely make it worse.

• #32 BHP Blog – Behavioral Health Partners (BHP) – University of Rochester Medical Center

  https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/behavioral-health-partners/bhp-blog/january-2024/identifying-and-coping-with-health-anxiety

  The beliefs are false even though the sensations are real. […] Paying more attention to symptoms may also make you more aware of sensations you might have not noticed otherwise. […] These sensations then become even louder and last longer. […] Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a mental health treatment, is the most effect form of therapy for health anxiety. […] Learning these techniques can help you feel more in control of your body and your thoughts and can lessen the intensity and frequency of any health related concerns you may have.

• #33 Shedding Light on Health Anxiety OCD | Sheppard Pratt

  https://www.sheppardpratt.org/news-views/story/shedding-light-on-health-anxiety-ocd/

  Feared consequences typically associated with Health Anxiety OCD include fear of dying or suffering from an illness of course, but also fear of permanent suffering, both mentally and physically, fear of abandoning your family because you didn’t take care of yourself, fear of never getting an accurate diagnosis and never finding treatment for your symptoms (real or imagined). […] It is important to recognize when hyper-responsibility is playing a role in your health anxiety, so it can be targeted effectively during treatment. […] It can be easy to miss when apparent efforts to responsibly take care of your health are actually compulsions that fuel your obsessive thinking. […] Googling is a common compulsion in many forms of OCD and is usually one of the first compulsions I work with my clients to reduce.

• #34 Can Your Mind Create Symptoms? Physical Effects of Worrying

  https://www.thechelseapsychologyclinic.com/therapy/can-your-mind-create-symptoms/

  If we’re living with an anxiety disorder, our body is in this state almost constantly something it’s not designed for. And things can fall out of whack pretty quickly. So it’s less about the mind creating symptoms. The symptoms are probably real they’re just not a result of the illness you’re attributing them to. Instead, they’re a symptom of your anxiety. […] Healthy anxiety symptoms seem real because they are real. So, firstly, it’s important to stress that just because your pain is caused by anxiety rather something physical doesn’t make it any less valid. Our mind and our body are one and the same. Your distress is real it isn’t a fabrication. […] The more we worry, the worse the physical symptoms get. We become so convinced that we are sick, that we end up seeking out the wrong kind of help. And so the cycle continues. […] Health anxiety is very much treatable. It’s not something you need to live with and it isn’t something you’re expected to just get over. Health anxiety often comes alongside other mental health issues like anxiety, depression and PTSD, so getting the right treatment is key.

• #35 Signs And Symptoms Of Health-Related Anxiety | BetterHelp

  https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/worry/health-anxiety-is-it-possible-to-worry-too-much-about-health/

  It can be common for people with health anxiety to have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as another form of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). […] Health anxiety can cause a vicious cycle of psychological symptoms and physical symptoms. When a person becomes fixated on the idea of developing a specific illness, such as heart disease, this anxiety can cause typical anxiety symptoms such as rapid heartbeat. However, the individual will then interpret this as a symptom of heart disease, which can exacerbate anxiety and cause further physical symptoms. […] Health anxiety is an umbrella term for two mental disorders: illness anxiety disorder and somatic symptom disorder. In the former, an individual worries excessively over normal sensations, believing that they could be part of a serious medical condition like a brain tumor, or ALS. Somatic symptom disorder can cause physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue and weakness, increased heart rate, or shortness of breath, which trigger anxiety symptoms or depression. […] The treatment plan for health anxiety typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a combination of talk therapy (usually CBT) and anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication is the most effective way to manage the symptoms of health anxiety.

• #36 Worried about your health? You may have health anxiety | UCLA Health

  https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/worried-about-your-health-you-may-have-health-anxiety

  Like illness anxiety disorder, somatic symptom disorder causes extreme distress about health. […] Even when physicians don’t find a medical reason for the symptoms, somatic symptom disorder can cause extreme anxiety. […] Typical signs of health anxiety may include: Having no symptoms but still fearing that you are sick, Seeking health information constantly, either online or from others, Worrying that you have a disease after hearing about it on the news, Performing unreasonable health-related behaviors, such as screening your body for disease repeatedly or avoiding medical appointments to prevent a diagnosis, Continuing to worry excessively, even after a doctor and medical tests reassure you that you are healthy, Letting health worries interfere with your life, family, work and hobbies.

• #37 Health Anxiety: What It Is and How to Cope

  https://www.brownandtoland.com/blog/health-anxiety-what-it-is-and-how-to-cope/

  Do you worry excessively about your health? Do you constantly think about getting sick, even when you have no symptoms? If so, you may have health anxiety. […] Health anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder that causes people to worry excessively about their health. People with health anxiety may have a fear of developing a serious illness, or they may constantly worry about their current health status. This worry can be so severe that it interferes with daily life. Some of the common symptoms of health anxiety include: Excessive worry about your health, Frequent checking of your body for symptoms, Avoiding activities that you think might make you sick, Obsessing about your symptoms, Seeking reassurance from doctors and other health care providers, Difficulty concentrating or sleeping, Feeling anxious or depressed.

• #38 Worried about your health? You may have health anxiety | UCLA Health

  https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/worried-about-your-health-you-may-have-health-anxiety

  If your health anxiety is severe, it can also interfere with your quality of life. […] If you are physically healthy, your provider may recommend evaluation by a mental health professional, who can treat the disorder. Common treatments for anxiety include medication and psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). […] If you think you’re experiencing health anxiety, reach out to your primary care physician.

• #39 Health Anxiety and its Effects – Emoneeds

  https://www.emoneeds.com/blog/health-anxiety-and-its-effects/

  Psychological Distress: Individuals with health anxiety experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and fear. Their constant worry about their health can lead to persistent feelings of dread and panic. […] Impaired Quality of Life: Health anxiety can interfere with daily functioning and reduce ones overall quality of life. People may avoid certain activities or situations due to fears of health risks, limiting their social and recreational experiences. […] Physical Symptoms: The anxiety associated with health concerns can lead to the development of physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscle tension, digestive problems, and fatigue. […] Excessive Medical Testing: Individuals with health anxiety often undergo unnecessary medical tests and procedures, which can be physically and financially burdensome.

• #40 Symptoms of anxiety and how to know when you need helpmenu iconsearch iconsubscribe iconsearch iconarrow up right icon

  https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/symptoms-of-anxiety-and-how-to-know-when-you-need-help/2024/08

  Some anxiety is part of everyday life for most people. However, anxiety can also be a sign of anxiety disorder. Almost one in three adults will have an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. […] It can get worse over time and can get in the way of everyday activities. […] Anxiety disorders can sometimes lead to serious complications, such as depression, alcoholism or drug abuse. […] Anxiety can cause several symptoms. Most often, people feel overly worried or fearful. It can make it hard to sleep and concentrate. […] If your anxiety is getting in the way of important activities, it’s more likely to be an anxiety disorder. […] Anxiety disorders typically cause severe anxiety. This can be persistent, exhausting and demoralizing. […] If anxiety symptoms are severe or interfering with your life, you should seek treatment from a health care provider.

• #41 Health Anxiety and its Effects – Emoneeds

  https://www.emoneeds.com/blog/health-anxiety-and-its-effects/

  Medical Overutilization: Frequent doctor visits and seeking multiple medical opinions are common among those with health anxiety, which can strain healthcare resources and create frustration for healthcare professionals. […] Interference with Relationships: The preoccupation with health concerns can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, as others may struggle to understand or provide continuous reassurance. […] Impact on Mental Health: Health anxiety may lead to or exacerbate other mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. […] Negative Thought Patterns: People with health anxiety often engage in catastrophic thinking, where they focus on the worst possible outcomes and have difficulty rationalizing or dismissing these thoughts. […] Difficulty Accepting Reassurance: Individuals with health anxiety may find it challenging to accept reassurance from healthcare professionals, friends, or family members, as they often doubt the validity of the information.

• #42 Hypochondria – meaning, symptoms and treatment | healthdirect

  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hypochondria

  Hypochondria is a type of anxiety disorder. […] People with hypochondria frequently worry about their health, even when nothing is seriously wrong. […] Signs can include going to the doctor frequently without feeling reassured, talking a lot about health and spending excessive time online researching symptoms. […] Hypochondria is more common in people who have a history of childhood neglect or abuse, serious physical illness and mental health issues. […] Symptoms of hypochondria can include obsessive and behavioural symptoms such as: thinking a lot about having a serious illness, seeing a doctor frequently but not accepting reassurances that they are healthy, seeking out lots of medical tests, spending hours on the internet studying symptoms. […] Social and emotional symptoms include: talking frequently about health with friends and family, difficulty sleeping, family, work and social difficulties because of concerns about health.

• #43 Managing high-functioning anxiety – Mayo Clinic Health System

  https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/managing-high-functioning-anxiety

  The intensity of these symptoms varies depending on a person’s level of functioning. […] High-functioning anxiety can significantly affect various areas of a person’s life, despite their outward success and achievement. […] People with high-functioning anxiety also may put their personal relationships at risk because they spend so much time focusing on other areas in their lives. […] People with high-functioning anxiety tend to overfunction. They may work extra hours, volunteer for extra assignments or try to perfectly do all tasks. […] While high-functioning anxiety may not be a recognized diagnosis, it represents a significant subset of people who experience anxiety symptoms while maintaining a high level of functionality. These people face internal struggles like persistent self-doubt, fear of failure, and a constant drive for perfection and pleasing others, which profoundly affect their daily lives.

• #44 My terror of living with health anxiety – Mental Health UK

  https://mentalhealth-uk.org/blog/my-terror-of-living-with-health-anxiety/

  You feel sick to your stomach as you feel so fearful for the future and tearful constantly as you sincerely believe youve not got long to live. […] One of the hardest things I found about experiencing health anxiety is the guilt that comes with it. […] However, when I did reach out for support, I immediately felt it was the right thing to do as it helped me unravel my feelings and I realised that actually I wasnt being selfish. […] Through talking therapy, I managed to get to the potential root causes of why my anxiety surrounding health and death might be the way it is. […] Once youve found root causes you can then work on reframing negative thoughts or work on recovering from trauma, which can help ease the anxiety symptoms. […] I rarely have intrusive anxious thoughts about my health or being unwell.

• #45 How To Break The Cycle Of Health Anxiety | Therapy Central

  https://therapy-central.com/2022/07/04/how-to-break-the-cycle-of-health-anxiety/

  Health anxiety is a condition that can impair everyday functioning. If you dont seek professional help, the symptoms might escalate and start affecting every area of your life. The proper treatment will teach you about the nature of your health anxiety to help you recognise unhealthy behaviours and unhelpful thoughts. Then, youll learn new coping skills and how to tolerate the uncertainty (e.g., reducing or refraining from looking up your symptoms or contacting a doctor). […] If you excessively worry about your health, you might struggle to focus on work and underperform, which might even cost you your job. This might also have an impact on your relationships. You might feel misunderstood and prioritise researching your symptoms instead of prioritising your partner, which can lead to a lot of tension and possibly a breakup.

• #46 Identifying and Treating Health Anxiety Disorder – VHA Home HealthCare

  https://www.vha.ca/blog/identifying-and-treating-health-anxiety-disorder/

  Everyone worries about their health and the health of loved ones, especially after living through the COVID-19 pandemic. However, adults with health anxiety disorder previously known as hypochondria experience a long-term, distressing and unreasonable fear of having or developing a serious illness. […] Health anxiety varies from mild to extremely serious and in more severe cases, a person may relocate close to the hospital and become unable to hold a job or have meaningful relationships. […] The primary symptom of health-related anxiety is the constant belief that you or someone you love has an undiagnosed illness. […] Some of these symptoms overlap with other mental health disorders including depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. […] Health anxiety is a long-term medical condition that usually occurs in early adulthood or middle age, can get worse with age and during times of stress. However, with the right treatment plan, you can improve your symptoms, functioning and quality of life.

• #47 Hypochondria – health anxiety

  https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/hypochondria/

  Health anxiety is sometimes called hypochondria. […] This is when you spend so much time worrying you’re ill, or about getting ill, that it starts to take over your life. […] You may have health anxiety if you: worry about your health most of the time, frequently check your body for signs of illness, such as lumps, tingling or pain, are always asking people for reassurance that you’re not ill, worry that your doctor or medical tests may have missed something, obsessively look at health information on the internet or in the media, avoid anything to do with serious illness, such as medical TV programmes, act as if you were ill – for example, avoiding physical activities. […] Anxiety itself can cause symptoms like headaches or a racing heartbeat. You may mistake these for signs of illness. […] See a GP if your worries are preventing you leading a normal life and self-help is not working. […] If your GP diagnoses you with health anxiety, they may: refer you for talking therapies, discuss anxiety medicines with you.

• #48 Generalized Anxiety Disorder: When Worry Gets Out of Control – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

  https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad

  Do you often find yourself worrying about everyday issues for no obvious reason? Are you always waiting for disaster to strike or excessively worried about things such as health, money, family, work, or school? […] GAD usually involves a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread that interferes with how you live your life. It is not the same as occasionally worrying about things or experiencing anxiety due to stressful life events. People living with GAD experience frequent anxiety for months, if not years. […] GAD develops slowly. It often starts around age 30, although it can occur in childhood. The disorder is more common in women than in men. […] People with GAD may: Worry excessively about everyday things, Have trouble controlling their worries or feelings of nervousness, Know that they worry much more than they should, Feel restless and have trouble relaxing, Have a hard time concentrating, Startle easily, Have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, Tire easily or feel tired all the time, Have headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains, Have a hard time swallowing, Tremble or twitch, Feel irritable or „on edge”, Sweat a lot, feel lightheaded, or feel out of breath, Have to go to the bathroom frequently.

• #49 Anxiety disorders – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961

  Common anxiety signs and symptoms include: […] Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom […] Having trouble sleeping […] Experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems […] Having difficulty controlling worry […] Anxiety disorder due to a medical condition includes symptoms of intense anxiety or panic that are directly caused by a physical health problem. […] Generalized anxiety disorder includes persistent and excessive anxiety and worry about activities or events even ordinary, routine issues. […] Panic disorder involves repeated episodes of sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear or terror that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks). […] Your worries may not go away on their own, and they may get worse over time if you don’t seek help. […] It’s easier to treat if you get help early.

• #50 What is Anxiety Disorder? | SAMHSALock

  https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/conditions/anxiety

  The symptoms of GAD comes from a complex interaction between biology and environment. Some factors may include genetics, brain function and chemistry, individual personality, development, and one’s perception of threats. […] Symptoms of GAD include: A sense of restlessness, Being on-edge or wound-up, Difficulty concentrating, Irritability, Being easily fatigued, Headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains, Trouble sleeping, Difficulty controlling feelings of worry, Sweating, nausea, or diarrhea. […] Panic disorder involves frequent and unexpected panic attacks – sudden periods of intense discomfort, fear, or sense of losing control, even when there is no clear danger that typically come without warning. […] People who experience occasional panic attacks may not develop panic disorder. Instead, those with panic disorder have repeated occurrences of panic attacks. They often worry about when the next attack will happen, to the point where they will avoid places and situations that they know have affected them in the past.

• #51 Health Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment – K Health

  https://khealth.com/learn/anxiety/health-anxiety/

  The main symptom of health anxiety is a persistent fear of having or developing a serious or life-threatening illness. Additional symptoms can also include: Excessive concern about health-related issues, Excessive body checking for skin lesions, hair loss, or other physical changes, Constantly seeking reassurance from family, friends, or healthcare providers. […] People with health anxiety will continue to feel anxious about their health even when examinations and test results come back normal. They may also feel disproportionately anxious about mild or benign symptoms, like their leg falling asleep. According to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, people with health anxiety will have severe anxiety about their health that lasts for six months or longer. […] Treatment for health anxiety is focused on helping people with the condition cope with their unrealistic fears and worry. It’s recommended that people with health anxiety develop a trusting relationship with one primary care provider with whom they feel comfortable talking about their health concerns.

• #52 Generalized Anxiety Disorder: When Worry Gets Out of Control – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

  https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad

  Symptoms may fluctuate over time and are often worse during times of stressfor examplewith a physical illness, during school exams, or during a family or relationship conflict. […] Both psychotherapy and medication can take some time to work. Many people try more than one medication before finding the best one for them. A health care provider can work with you to find the best medication, dose, and duration of treatment for you.

• #53 Signs You May be a Hypochondriac – The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders

  https://centerforanxietydisorders.com/hypochondriac-signs/

  A hypochondriac is someone who lives with the fear that they have a serious, but undiagnosed medical condition, even though diagnostic tests show there is nothing wrong with them. Hypochondriacs experience extreme anxiety from the bodily responses most people take for granted. For example, they may be convinced that something as simple as a sneeze is the sign they have a horrible disease. Hypochondria accounts for about five percent of outpatient medical care annually. More than 200,000 people are diagnosed with health anxiety (also known as illness anxiety disorder) each year. […] Hypochondria is a mental health disorder. It usually starts in early adulthood and may show up after the person or someone they know has gone through an illness or after they’ve lost someone to a serious medical condition. About two-thirds of hypochondriacs have a co-existing psychiatric disorder, such as panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or major depression. Hypochondria symptoms can vary, depending on factors such as stress, age, and whether the person is already an extreme worrier. Hypochondriac symptoms may include: Regularly checking themselves for any sign of illness […] Fearing that anything from a runny nose to a gurgle in their gut is the sign of a serious illness […] Making frequent visits to their doctor […] Conversely, avoiding the doctor due to fear that the doctor will find they have a dreaded disease or serious illness […] Talking excessively about their health […] Spending a lot of time online, researching their symptoms […] Are unconvinced that their negative medical tests are correct, then worry that they have something undiagnosed and that no one will be able to find it and cure them […] Health anxiety can actually have its own symptoms because it’s possible for the person to have stomachaches, dizziness, or pain as a result of their overwhelming anxiety. In fact, illness anxiety can take over a hypochondriac’s life to the point that worrying and living in fear are so stressful, the person can become debilitated.

• #54 Health Anxiety – Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

  https://neurosymptoms.org/en/symptoms/common-associated-symptoms/health-anxiety/

  This page explores the idea of health anxiety a little more. […] The commonest cause of anxiety or worry in patients with functional symptoms is worry about the symptoms themselves. What are they due to? Why doesnt anyone seem to believe me? Am I going mad? Is it something serious? Will I become disabled in the future? […] The patient knows that these worries about the possibility of sinister disease are irrational but they cant shake them off. […] Difficulties can arise however when the doctor doesnt give an explanation. […] The patient does believe the explanation but then irrational anxieties keep coming back (Health Anxiety). […] Usually the patient knows that these worries about the possibility of sinister disease are irrational but they cant shake them off. […] Meanwhile increasing levels of anxiety about symptoms is making them worse, typically with worsening dizziness, headache and tiredness.

• #55 Illness anxiety disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/illness-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20373782

  Symptoms of illness anxiety disorder involve preoccupation with the idea that you’re seriously ill, based on normal body sensations (such as a noisy stomach) or minor signs (such as a minor rash). Signs and symptoms may include: Being preoccupied with having or getting a serious disease or health condition. Worrying that minor symptoms or body sensations mean you have a serious illness. Being easily alarmed about your health status. Finding little or no reassurance from doctor visits or negative test results. Worrying excessively about a specific medical condition or your risk of developing a medical condition because it runs in your family. Having so much distress about possible illnesses that it’s hard for you to function. Repeatedly checking your body for signs of illness or disease. Frequently making medical appointments for reassurance or avoiding medical care for fear of being diagnosed with a serious illness. Avoiding people, places or activities for fear of health risks. Constantly talking about your health and possible illnesses. Frequently searching the internet for causes of symptoms or possible illnesses.

• #56 Signs You May be a Hypochondriac – The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders

  https://www.centerforanxietydisorders.com/2018/06/15/hypochondriac-signs/

  A hypochondriac is someone who lives with the fear that they have a serious, but undiagnosed medical condition, even though diagnostic tests show there is nothing wrong with them. Hypochondriacs experience extreme anxiety from the bodily responses most people take for granted. For example, they may be convinced that something as simple as a sneeze is the sign they have a horrible disease. Hypochondria accounts for about five percent of outpatient medical care annually. More than 200,000 people are diagnosed with health anxiety (also known as illness anxiety disorder) each year. […] Hypochondria is a mental health disorder. It usually starts in early adulthood and may show up after the person or someone they know has gone through an illness or after they’ve lost someone to a serious medical condition. About two-thirds of hypochondriacs have a co-existing psychiatric disorder, such as panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or major depression. Hypochondria symptoms can vary, depending on factors such as stress, age, and whether the person is already an extreme worrier. Hypochondriac symptoms may include: Regularly checking themselves for any sign of illness, fearing that anything from a runny nose to a gurgle in their gut is the sign of a serious illness, making frequent visits to their doctor, avoiding the doctor due to fear that the doctor will find they have a dreaded disease or serious illness, talking excessively about their health, spending a lot of time online, researching their symptoms, may focus on just one thing: a certain disease (example: cancer) or a certain body part (example: the lungs if they cough). Or, they may fear any disease or might become focused on a trending disease (example: during flu season, they may be convinced that a sniffle means they’re coming down with the flu), are unconvinced that their negative medical tests are correct, then worry that they have something undiagnosed and that no one will be able to find it and cure them, avoiding people or places they fear may cause them to get sick.

• #57 Anxiety Disorders: Causes, Types, Symptoms, & Treatments

  https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety

  Anxiety may cause you to stop doing things you enjoy. For example, it may prevent you from entering an elevator, crossing the street, or even leaving your home in extreme cases. If left untreated, the anxiety will keep getting worse. […] Illness anxiety disorder. This is anxiety about your health (formerly called hypochondria). […] Symptoms of anxiety can include: anxious thoughts or beliefs that are difficult to control, restlessness, trouble concentrating, difficulty falling asleep, fatigue, irritability, unexplained aches and pains. […] The long-term outlook for people with untreated depression and anxiety includes chronic health issues, such as heart disease. […] It’s important to understand that anxiety disorders can be treated, even in severe cases. Although anxiety usually doesn’t go away, you can learn to manage it and live a happy, healthy life.

• #58 Symptoms of anxiety and how to know when you need helpmenu iconsearch iconsubscribe iconsearch iconarrow up right icon

  https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/symptoms-of-anxiety-and-how-to-know-when-you-need-help/2024/08

  The most effective treatments for anxiety disorders include medications and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT). […] Most people who suffer from an anxiety disorder will receive great benefit from treatment with either CBT or a medication. […] If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, there is a good chance your condition will improve with treatment. […] Self-care is important to combating anxiety. Research has shown that there are many activities to help reduce the stress response.

• #59 “Psychology Works” Fact Sheet: Health Anxiety – Canadian Psychological Association

  https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-health-anxiety/

  Most people have felt anxious about their health or the health of loved ones at some point in their lives. […] Health anxiety involves fears of having or developing a serious disease such as cancer, heart disease, or multiple sclerosis. […] Individuals with health anxiety may also avoid other situations related to illness and death, including activities such as spending time with loved ones who are ill, attending funerals, and writing a will. […] Worries may be mild and transient or they may have a more severe and chronic course, waxing and waning over time. […] Health anxiety can occur on its own and may then be termed illness anxiety disorder. […] In some circumstances, the level of health anxiety may be excessive and may interfere with normal functioning and enjoyment of life.

• #60

  https://ezcareclinic.io/what-does-health-anxiety-feel-like-symptoms-causes-examples/

  According to Harvard Health, 4 to 5% of people worldwide suffer from health anxiety, which is considered to be a mental health problem. Most often, those who have health anxiety fear deadly diseases like cancer and HIV. However, in current times, peoples concern about their health is rising rapidly due to viruses such as Covid and monkeypox. Experts believe that the number of persons who experience health anxiety may potentially double from what has previously been estimated. […] Health anxiety is a mental health condition also referred to as illness anxiety disorder. It is also known as hypochondria. People who suffer from the illness anxiety disorder believe they have a significant medical condition or are at a high risk of getting sick, yet this belief is inaccurate. They might mistake normal biological functions as symptoms of the disease.

• #61 Understanding Hypochondria: Recognizing Health Anxiety and Managing Your Concerns — Baltimore Therapy Group – Accepting New Patients

  https://www.therapistsinbaltimore.com/therapy-insights-blog/2024/12/8/understanding-hypochondria-recognizing-health-anxiety-and-managing-your-concerns

  Do you find yourself constantly worried about your health, suspecting minor symptoms could indicate a serious disease? This pervasive concern, often referred to as hypochondria or health anxiety, affects numerous individuals, leading to significant distress. Hypochondria, now more commonly referred to as health anxiety or somatic symptom disorder, manifests as an excessive preoccupation with the fear of having a serious illness. This condition often leads individuals to misinterpret normal bodily sensations as signs of severe illness. Health anxiety disorders, encompassing conditions like hypochondria, cyberchondria, somatic symptom disorder, and illness anxiety disorder, often lead individuals to persistently worry about having serious illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, or chronic condition despite a medical test, physician reassurance, or lack of other forms of evidence. Recognizing excessive health worries is crucial for individuals who find themselves in a constant state of concern over their well-being. When the fear of illness leads to persistent distress, disrupting daily activities, and perhaps even prompting the misuse of natural remedies for anxiety, it may be time to consult a psychologist. Individuals grappling with distress related to their well-being may report physical symptoms that lack medical evidence, such as unexplained blood pressure fluctuations, pain, sleep difficulties, dizziness, or perceived heart irregularities. These symptoms often persist despite negative test results and can lead to a relentless search for anxiety help. The impact of anxiety about one’s well-being on daily functioning can be profound, with individuals experiencing hypochondriasis symptoms often finding their attention consumed by the fear of illness. This preoccupation can lead to avoidance of activities that they perceive might trigger symptoms, impacting social interactions and professional responsibilities. Exploring the origins of health anxiety, one must consider psychological factors, the influence of past experiences, and the role of stress in life transitions. Psychological factors play a significant role in the development of health anxiety, often rooted in a syndrome of persistent worry and fear. Stressful life events and significant transitions can act as catalysts for health anxiety, often triggering panic and exacerbating pre-existing concerns. Effective treatment of health anxiety, sometimes linked with conditions like major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, requires a multifaceted approach. Cognitive-behavioral techniques are a cornerstone in the treatment of health anxiety, addressing the emotional turmoil that accompanies conditions like adjustment disorder and traumatic stress.

• #62 How I Cope with Health Anxiety | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness

  https://www.nami.org/anxiety-disorders/how-i-cope-with-health-anxiety/

  I repeat the same tiring ritual every morning. I take the dreaded first look in the mirror, check for odd bumps or any out-of-place sensations. I continue my scrutiny throughout the day, in a way that’s nearly impossible not to find something out of the ordinary. A razor burn. Skin cancer? Night sweats. I’ve contracted HIV somehow. Or I could have lymphoma. […] The truth about health anxiety—formerly referred to as hypochondria—is that it goes far beyond a crammed medicine container and searches of random symptoms on WebMD. In fact, oftentimes there are little to no chemicals in the picture as putting chemicals in my body often worsens my symptoms. […] My health anxiety gives me the sensation of being held hostage by my own body. As though my cells, tissues and organs do not belong to me. Instead, I must do as they please, whether it is through exercising, eating or absorbing a precise amount of sunlight. Protection of my physical body is not so much a healthy choice, as it is an uncontrollable, addictive survival mechanism.

• #63 Signs And Symptoms Of Health-Related Anxiety | BetterHelp

  https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/worry/health-anxiety-is-it-possible-to-worry-too-much-about-health/

  Health anxiety is a condition that may cause people to think they are sick despite minor or no symptoms. Fears of a severe illness can interfere with their daily lives, whether theyre spending their time consumed with worry or going to appointments at multiple doctors offices for extensive testing. […] Someone with health anxiety may get a sore throat and worry that they have something serious other than strep or a cold. They may get stomach cramps and fear that they have cancer instead of gas or indigestion. While health anxiety involves excessive worry about having a serious illness, hypochondriasis, which is now often referred to as illness anxiety disorder, is a more severe form where the person persistently believes they have a serious condition despite medical reassurance. […] Other symptoms or behaviors people with this type of anxiety may experience include: Spending hours researching health information online, Reading a news story about a disease or condition and then worrying that they have it, Thinking something is wrong with their health after medical tests appear normal, Misinterpreting or attributing specific physical symptoms to something serious.

• #64 5 Ways to Cope If Health Anxiety is Ruining Your Life | One Medical

  https://www.onemedical.com/blog/healthy-living/5-ways-cope-health-anxiety/

  If you struggle with healthy anxiety, its easy to jump from a thought like I think I might have a heart condition to I have a heart condition and Im dying. […] If your anxiety isnt going away or is beginning to impair your daily activities and routines, it may be time to seek the support of a professional.

• #65 Always worried about your health? You may be dealing with health anxiety disorder – Harvard Health

  https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/always-worried-about-your-health-you-may-be-dealing-with-health-anxiety-disorder

  Health anxiety can interfere with your life, but it’s highly treatable. […] Health anxiety is a condition that causes healthy people to worry that they are sick even when they have no symptoms, or minor symptoms like a scratchy throat. […] This fear that they have a serious illness can interfere with their daily life. It might lead them to seek out unnecessary testing, to waste hours in the doctor’s office, and to spend days consumed by worry. […] People with health anxiety often misinterpret normal or benign physical symptoms and attribute them to something more serious. […] Symptoms produced by anxiety which can include muscle pain, chest pain, heart rate changes, headaches, and dizziness, among others can heighten existing anxiety about one’s health. […] Here are some telltale signs of health anxiety: You have no symptoms, but still fear that you are sick.

• #66

  https://www.rula.com/blog/illness-anxiety-disorder/

  Illness anxiety disorder is more than just waking up with a sore throat and wondering if youre coming down with something. It involves constant, overwhelming fears about your health that can get in the way of daily life. […] You may have illness anxiety disorder if: You speak to your doctor frequently for reassurance. You seek additional tests even though you dont have any observable signs of illness and havent engaged in any activity that would increase your risk of getting sick. You spend hours each day researching health topics online. You get test results that show that youre healthy but dont believe them. You self-diagnose with a new disease or condition when you hear about it. You spend a lot of time worrying about getting sick. Your fears about sickness have negatively affected your relationships or kept you from engaging in hobbies or activities you used to enjoy.

• #67 Health anxiety disorder – Priory

  https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health/anxiety-treatment/health-anxiety

  Health anxiety is a specific type of anxiety disorder, where people spend a lot of time worrying about being unwell or becoming unwell. […] Health anxiety can seriously compromise your ability to function in your day-to-day life. […] Health anxiety goes beyond what we might consider a normal concern for your health, in that it can cause debilitating worry that can have a negative impact on all areas of your life. […] Some common signs of health anxiety can include: Exaggerating minor, often normal, bodily functions as symptoms of illness, Worrying constantly about your health, Frequently checking your body for signs of illness, such as rashes, lumps or unusual bodily sensations, Seeking reassurance from friends, family or medical professionals, Obsessively searching the internet for health related topics, Avoiding your typical activities or situations out of concern for your health.

• #68

  https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-overcome-the-endless-checks-of-health-worries

  The best way to reverse the cycle of negative reinforcement is to identify the triggers for your worries about illness and all the ways you try to get rid of your worry and anxiety. […] Exposure therapy and learning to view uncertainty as normal is the most reliable way to recover from illness anxiety. […] Practise repeatedly going near or into hospitals, cemeteries or other places that trigger your anxiety. Allow yourself to feel anxious and imagine scary thoughts while reminding yourself that this is just your scary imagination fooling your body and brain into believing danger is real. […] Because illness anxiety is ultimately about an intolerance to uncertainty and fears about what the future may hold, I recommend that, alongside your exposure work, you also spend some time reflecting on what it means to be a living, breathing human.

• #69 How To Break The Cycle Of Health Anxiety | Therapy Central

  https://therapy-central.com/2022/07/04/how-to-break-the-cycle-of-health-anxiety/

  Health anxiety is a mental health issue that involves excessive worry about your health. While its normal to be concerned about your wellbeing occasionally, if you have health anxiety, its likely that you frequently misinterpret body sensations. You might see every signal from your body as a potential threat and may regularly seek reassurance from health professionals. […] Breaking the cycle of health anxiety is possible. The first step is recognising what keeps the health anxiety going and addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, which can be done with the help of a trained therapist. The next step is targeting these thoughts and replacing them with more realistic assumptions that will decrease unhealthy behaviours. […] One of the ways the cycle of health anxiety is maintained is by experiencing unhelpful thoughts. People with health anxiety interpret physical symptoms as threatening and come up with worst-case scenarios.

• #70 Health Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment – K Health

  https://khealth.com/learn/anxiety/health-anxiety/

  Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is often the first-line treatment for health anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be especially effective in helping you address your negative thoughts and behaviors. […] Medication may also be used as part of your treatment plan for health anxiety. Types of prescription medication used to treat health anxiety include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). […] It’s important to reach out to your medical health provider if you’re experiencing any of the signs of health anxiety, especially having disproportionate levels of anxiety about a possible or undiagnosed health concern.

• #71 All About Health Anxiety: What It Is and How Do We Cope with It | Archways Centre for CBT

  https://www.archways.ca/blog/all-about-health-anxiety

  CBT is known to be a very effective treatment for health anxiety, as this therapeutic approach focuses on the identification of irrational thoughts, questioning these thoughts, and replacing them with positive, more realistic ones. […] It can also help to have support groups or online communities to give you a sense of understanding, validation, and connection with others who have similar experiences. […] Medical professionals weigh the individual circumstances and potential risks of a of their training in handling any level of severity of health anxiety symptoms and prescribe appropriate medications if they deem it necessary. […] Health anxiety can significantly impact a persons well-being, but with the right knowledge, coping strategies, and professional support, its possible to manage and overcome it.

• #72 How I Cope with Health Anxiety | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness

  https://www.nami.org/anxiety-disorders/how-i-cope-with-health-anxiety/

  Realistically speaking, nothing would happen to me health-wise if I set my worries aside and stopped my daily inspections. My rational side occasionally reminds me of that. However, worrying has become habitual. The hardest part is deconstructing this pattern—a skill I have yet to perfect. […] I’ve lived with this condition for as long as I can remember, enough to grow accustomed to it and learn how to manage it. Though my anxiety is still there, I can assure you I’ve significantly improved. […] Health anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder. Some people forget that anxiety and depression have various branches within them, which must be treated accordingly with specific medications, therapy or a combination of both. […] I can’t stress enough that treatment with a professional is key to recovery. Before I finally started seeing a therapist, I thought I was the only person who felt this way. I never realized there was a medical term for my condition, and that it’s more common than I thought. Getting help made me feel like I belong, and maybe that’s all I needed to get started.

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