Health anxiety, also known as illness anxiety disorder or hypochondria, is a condition that affects many people but is often misunderstood. It involves excessive worry about having a serious illness despite little or no medical evidence to support this concern. This guide aims to explain what health anxiety is, how it manifests, and how to support those who experience it.
What is Health Anxiety?
Health anxiety is characterized by a preoccupation with the belief that one has, or will develop, a serious illness. This concern persists despite medical reassurance and can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. Unlike general anxiety, which may encompass a broad range of worries, health anxiety specifically focuses...