Health anxiety
Health Anxiety
Health anxiety (pronunciation: /hɛlθ æŋˈzaɪ.ə.ti/), also known as Illness anxiety disorder or Hypochondriasis, is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by an excessive worry about having a serious illness, despite having no or only mild symptoms.
Etymology
The term "health anxiety" is derived from the English words "health", referring to the state of being free from illness or injury, and "anxiety", which originates from the Latin word "anxietatem", meaning a state of uneasiness or apprehension.
Definition
Health anxiety is a persistent and irrational fear of having a serious medical condition. This fear persists even after medical exams show nothing wrong. People with health anxiety often misinterpret normal or minor body sensations as serious illness symptoms. They frequently seek reassurance from doctors, family, and friends.
Symptoms
Symptoms of health anxiety may include:
- Constant worry about health
- Seeking frequent medical consultations
- Avoidance of medical TV shows, articles, etc., due to fear of triggering anxiety
- Misinterpretation of normal body sensations as serious illness
Causes
The exact cause of health anxiety is unknown. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing this disorder, such as having a serious illness during childhood, a family history of health anxiety or other mental disorders, or a personality that leans towards negativity or worry.
Treatment
Treatment for health anxiety typically involves psychotherapy, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals understand and change thought patterns leading to unwanted behaviors. In some cases, antidepressants or other medications may be used.
Related Terms
- Anxiety disorder
- Illness anxiety disorder
- Hypochondriasis
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Antidepressants
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