Health Anxiety
What Is Health Anxiety?
Health anxiety is a condition where individuals become excessively preoccupied with the belief that they are suffering from a serious illness, despite having little or no medical evidence to support this concern. In the UK, health anxiety is a growing issue, impacting thousands of people.
Health anxiety often arises from a combination of psychological, environmental, and biological factors. People with a predisposition to anxiety or those who have experienced trauma, such as a serious illness in themselves or a loved one, may be more likely to develop health anxiety. The nature and amount of health information online, and in the media often further exacerbates this condition. Many individuals with health anxiety frequently search for symptoms on the internet, which can lead to a cycle of worry and self-diagnosis, often amplifying their fears.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the prevalence of health anxiety, with many people becoming hyper-aware of their health and potential symptoms of illness. The constant flow of information regarding the virus, coupled with widespread uncertainty and fear, has had a lasting impact on mental health in the UK. For individuals prone to health anxiety, this environment has created a perfect storm, exacerbating pre-existing worries and leading to increased demand for mental health support.
The symptoms of health anxiety can be both mental and physical. On a psychological level, individuals may experience persistent worry about their health, an inability to be reassured by medical professionals, and compulsive checking behaviours such as examining their body for signs of illness or repeatedly seeking medical advice. Physically, health anxiety can manifest as tension, headaches, stomach discomfort, or even mimic symptoms of the illnesses the individual fears. This combination can create a feedback loop, where physical symptoms caused by anxiety reinforce the belief that something is wrong.
How we can help with Health Anixety
Recognising health anxiety and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for health anxiety. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge their anxious thoughts, learn to manage their worries, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of anxiety by a medical professional. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also be beneficial, as they help individuals focus on the present moment and reduce overall stress levels.
For those dealing with health anxiety, self-care strategies can work alongside professional treatment. Limiting time spent searching for health information online, setting boundaries around doctor visits, and engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms. Building a strong support network of friends and family who understand the condition can also provide much-needed reassurance and encouragement.
It’s important that individuals seek help early, reducing its impact on their daily lives. By combining professional treatment, self-help strategies, and support from those close such as family and friends, those affected by health anxiety can learn to manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives.
For further information about health anxiety look at our blog using the link below https://clearmindstherapy.co.uk/understanding-health-anxiety/
At Clear Minds Therapy, Health Anxiety is something we can support with. We understand how hard it can be to reach out for support and how stressful it can be to constantly worry about your health. If you or someone you know is struggling with health anxiety you contact us for an informal conversation about how our qualified team can support and discuss the benefits of CBT.
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