Health anxiety is an excessive fear of serious illness. It involves misinterpreting normal bodily sensations as dangerous. For example, a headache might be seen as a brain tumor. This leads to unnecessary worry and fear, impacting quality of life. People with health anxiety often seek constant medical advice.
Health anxiety is the fear of serious illness, distinct from general anxiety. While both share physical symptoms, health anxiety persists despite medical reassurance. This leads to a cycle of symptom noticing, misinterpretation, and repeated testing. Some avoid doctors due to fear of diagnosis or triggering information.
Health anxiety often stems from intolerance of uncertainty about health. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment. CBT helps identify and correct irrational thoughts driving anxiety. It teaches coping mechanisms to manage worrisome thoughts and behaviors. Find a therapist at findyourtherapist.com.