Hypochondria, what is it:

Hypochondria, what is it:

Hypochondria, also known as Illness Anxiety Disorder (as per DSM-5), is a psychological condition in which a person is excessively worried about having or developing a serious illness, even when medical tests show no evidence of a health problem.

Key Features:

Preoccupation with health: Constant worry about bodily symptoms like headaches, minor pains, or fatigue.

Misinterpretation of normal sensations: Normal body functions (like heartbeat or digestion) are seen as signs of serious disease.

Reassurance doesn’t help: Even after doctor visits and negative tests, the anxiety remains or returns quickly.

Frequent doctor visits or avoidance: Some people seek constant medical opinions; others avoid doctors out of fear they’ll hear bad news.

Impaired daily life: The worry can interfere with work, relationships, and normal routines.

Possible Causes:

History of serious childhood illness (personal or family)

High levels of stress or trauma

Personality traits like neuroticism or perfectionism

Exposure to health-related news or online symptom checkers (cyberchondria)

Possible: Treatment:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — the most effective approach, helping change the thought patterns driving the anxiety.

Medications —Consult a Psychiatrist.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques — to manage stress and reduce body-focused attention.

Shervan K Shahhian