Doctors say you’re okay—but your mind isn’t convinced.” - Understanding Hypochondriasis

Understanding Hypochondriasis (Health Anxiety)

You’ve done the blood tests.Seen multiple doctors.Googled symptoms at 2 a.m.Reassured yourself—again and again.

And yet, the worry doesn’t stop.

If this feels familiar, you’re not “overreacting” or “dramatic.”You might be dealing with hypochondriasis, more commonly called health anxiety

What Is Hypochondriasis?

Hypochondriasis is a mental health condition where a person is constantly worried about having a serious illness, despite medical tests being normal or doctors offering reassurance.

It’s not “all in your head.”The fear feels very real—sometimes overwhelming.

Even minor sensations like:

• A headache

• Chest discomfort

• Fatigue

• Body aches

…can trigger intense anxiety and catastrophic thinking.

Common Signs of Health Anxiety

You might relate to hypochondriasis if you:

• Constantly check your body for symptoms

• Google health problems excessively

• Seek repeated medical tests or second opinions

• Feel temporarily relieved after reassurance—but the fear returns

• Avoid hospitals or visit doctors very frequently

• Feel anxious the moment you notice a bodily sensation

Many people say:“I know it sounds irrational, but I just can’t stop worrying.”

That’s health anxiety.

Why Reassurance Doesn’t Work for Long

This is the most frustrating part.

Every normal report gives relief—but only briefly.Soon, the mind finds another symptom or another disease to worry about.

Why?

Because the core problem isn’t the body.It’s the brain’s threat system stuck on high alert.

Your mind keeps asking:

“What if the doctors missed something?”“What if this is rare?”“What if it’s serious this time?”

What Causes Hypochondriasis?

Health anxiety often develops due to:

• Past illness or medical trauma

• Seeing a loved one fall seriously ill

• Chronic stress or anxiety disorders

• High sensitivity to bodily sensations

• Excessive health-related information (hello, Google)

  
  

It’s especially common in people who are:

• Highly responsible

• Perfectionistic

• Used to being “in control”

  
  

How Is Hypochondriasis Treated?

The good news?Health anxiety is treatable.

Effective treatment usually includes:

1. Psychological Therapy

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) helps you:

• Understand anxiety patterns

• Reduce checking and reassurance-seeking

• Respond differently to bodily sensations

  
  

2. Medication (When Needed)

In some cases, medication for anxiety or OCD-spectrum symptoms can help calm the overactive threat system.

3. Learning to Sit With Uncertainty

Recovery doesn’t mean never having a health-related thought.It means not letting that thought control your life.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

Consider speaking to a mental health professional if:

• Health worries consume a lot of your time

• Anxiety affects sleep, work, or relationships

• You feel stuck in a loop of fear and reassurance

• Medical reassurance no longer helps

Early help can prevent years of distress.

A Gentle Reminder

You’re not weak.

You’re not wasting anyone’s time.

And you’re definitely not alone.

Health anxiety is a real condition, and support can genuinely help you feel better.

If your mind is constantly asking “What if?”,it might be time to listen—with compassion, not judgment.

At Vriddhi, our mental health professionals work with individuals experiencing health anxiety using evidence-based, empathetic care.

👉 If this resonates with you, consider reaching out for a consultation.

This article is written and reviewed by Dr. Pavitra, MD Psychiatry (Delhi University), Consultant Psychiatrist, New Delhi.