What is Health Anxiety?
Health anxiety, sometimes known as illness anxiety disorder or hypochondriasis, involves an excessive preoccupation with the belief that one has, or will develop, a serious medical condition. This can lead to a cycle of constant worry, repeated doctor visits, or avoidance of medical care altogether. For many, health anxiety can disrupt daily life, relationships, and overall mental health.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Individuals experiencing health anxiety may notice:
- Persistent fear of having a severe illness despite reassurance.
- Frequently checking the body for signs of illness or over-researching symptoms online.
- Avoiding places or activities that could lead to illness.
- Constantly seeking reassurance from doctors, family, or friends.
- Experiencing physical symptoms that seem related to anxiety, such as headaches or rapid heartbeat, which can be mistaken for signs of illness.
Causes and Triggers
Health anxiety can develop for various reasons, such as:
- Past experiences of illness or trauma, either personal or observed in loved ones.
- A heightened focus on bodily sensations and associating them with serious health issues.
- Stressful life events or periods of heightened anxiety.
- Increased exposure to health-related news or media.
Seeking Help and Support
If health anxiety is affecting your life, reaching out for support can be a crucial step toward recovery. At Overcoming OCD, we have experienced CBT therapists ready to help you regain control and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how our tailored therapy plans can support your journey to better mental health.