We all worry about our health from time to time, this is normal. Health anxiety is different, as it makes you worry excessively about having a serious health condition, despite having tests that show you do not have it.
If you regularly check your body for signs of a serious illness – or ask friends, family, or your GP many times if it could be something serious – this is a common sign of health anxiety.
You might worry about one particular illness, or about lots of different health problems.
Symptoms can include:
- Overly worrying and being distracted about being seriously ill, or becoming seriously ill.
- Becoming easily concerned or upset about changes to your personal health.
- Repeatedly checking yourself for signs and symptoms of a serious illness.
- Avoiding medical checks because you are afraid that a serious illness will be diagnosed.
