Hypochondria – Illness Anxiety Disorder
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Hipochondria – choroba lęku o zdrowie

Hypochondria, now officially referred to as Illness Anxiety Disorder in modern diagnostic classifications (DSM-5 and ICD-11), is a psychological condition characterized by an intense, persistent fear of having a serious medical illness. The person interprets normal or mild bodily sensations as signs of severe disease, leading to significant distress and impaired daily functioning.

 

What Is Hypochondria?

Hypochondria is not faking symptoms or pretending to be ill.
It is a genuine anxiety disorder in which the fear of illness becomes overwhelming and difficult to control.

Today, two main categories are recognized:

  • Illness Anxiety Disorder – strong fear of illness with few or no physical symptoms.
  • Somatic Symptom Disorder – excessive worry combined with noticeable physical symptoms.

Symptoms of Hypochondria
1. Persistent fear and worry

  • Strong conviction of having a serious illness
  • Catastrophic interpretation of minor sensations
  • Constant fear of cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders, etc.

2. Excessive body monitoring

  • Frequently checking pulse, blood pressure, moles, breathing
  • Hyper-focus on normal bodily sensations (e.g., gas, heartbeat, tingling)

3. Frequent use of medical services

  • Visiting multiple doctors
  • Repeating medical tests
  • Doubting negative test results or medical reassurance

4. Avoidance behaviors

  • Avoiding hospitals, medical news, or screenings out of fear
  • Avoiding physical activity perceived as dangerous

5. Compulsive information seeking

  • Excessive researching of symptoms online (cyberchondria)
  • Comparing oneself to people with serious diseases

 

Causes of Hypochondria

Hypochondria is a multifactorial condition. Contributing factors include:

1. Psychological factors

  • Generalized anxiety tendencies
  • Heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations
  • Past illness in oneself or close family members

2. Biological factors

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Neurochemical imbalances related to anxiety

3. Environmental factors

  • Overprotective or health-focused upbringing
  • Traumatic medical experiences
  • Chronic stress or major life changes

 

 

Diagnosis is made by a psychologist or psychiatrist based on:

  • Clinical interview
  • Assessment of symptoms and their duration
  • Evaluation of how the fear affects daily life
  • Before diagnosing an anxiety disorder, actual medical conditions must be ruled out.

 

Treatment of Hypochondria
1. Psychotherapy (the primary treatment)

The most effective approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It helps:

  • Identify and change distorted thoughts about health
  • Reduce reassurance-seeking behaviors
  • Manage anxiety responses
  • Improve coping strategies and daily functioning

2. Medication

Used when needed:

  • SSRIs (antidepressants effective for anxiety)
  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Combined therapy for more severe cases

3. Education and support

  • Limiting excessive internet searching
  • Learning healthy coping skills
  • Consistent and compassionate communication from healthcare providers

 

Living With Hypochondria

Hypochondria can significantly impact relationships, work, and overall quality of life. Many people with the disorder feel misunderstood or isolated. However, with proper treatment, individuals can:

  • Reduce anxiety
  • Regain control over intrusive worries
  • Improve functioning and quality of life
  • Research shows that most patients respond well to therapy.

 

Hypochondria is a serious anxiety disorder—not exaggeration or imagination. The fear of illness is genuine and distressing. With appropriate treatment such as psychotherapy, education, and sometimes medication, individuals can significantly reduce symptoms and live a fulfilling life.