By: Bridget Graber, MSW, LISW-S , VP of Behavioral Health

Health anxiety is a condition that can take many different forms, ranging from mild nervousness when attending medical appointments to the overwhelming, persistent fear of having a serious, undiagnosed medical condition (often referred to as hypochondria). It’s a type of anxiety that impacts not only how we think about our health but how we behave when it comes to seeking care. In some cases, health anxiety can even stem from past negative medical experiences, including trauma from medical procedures or illnesses, which can make appointments and treatment feel overwhelming.

What Is Health Anxiety?

Health anxiety can manifest in various ways, and it’s important to recognize the signs that may point to this condition. Here are some common symptoms:

• Racing Thoughts: You may find yourself obsessing over the status of your health or imagining that you have a serious medical condition that hasn’t been diagnosed.
• Physical Symptoms: It’s not uncommon for anxiety about your health to lead to physical symptoms like a racing heart, especially when you think about scheduling an appointment or visiting a doctor.
• Avoidance: Some individuals with health anxiety avoid medical appointments altogether, creating gaps in their healthcare that can lead to worsening anxiety.
• Specific Fears: You might have specific fears about certain medical equipment, such as needles, that exacerbate your anxiety during visits.

Health Anxiety in Children

Health anxiety is not limited to adults—children can experience these worries, too. Identifying health anxiety in children may look a little different, but some telltale signs to look for include:

• Excessive Checking: Your child might repeatedly check their body for signs of illness or constantly ask for reassurance from you about their health.
• Refusing Treatment: When it’s time for medical treatment, your child may react with intense emotional outbursts such as screaming, crying, or even physical acts like hitting or throwing objects.
• Difficulty Eating or Sleeping: A child with health anxiety may show signs of distress, especially as a medical appointment approaches. This can manifest in difficulty eating, sleeping, or maintaining normal routines.
• Clinginess and Tension: You might notice your child being extra fidgety, tense, or even clinging to you for comfort, especially when heading to a medical appointment.

How to Manage Health Anxiety

Whether you’re an adult dealing with health anxiety or you’re trying to support a child, there are strategies that can help you manage anxiety during medical visits and reduce the overall fear and stress that come with the condition.

Grounding During Appointments

Grounding techniques can be incredibly helpful during medical appointments. These can help you stay in the moment and reduce anxiety. Here are a few strategies:

• Deep Breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system and bring your attention back to the present.
• Distraction: Bring along a fidget toy or another distraction to help ease the anxiety during waiting times.
• Soothing Scents: Aromatherapy can also be effective in calming anxiety. Consider bringing along scents like lavender or chamomile, known for their calming effects.
• Modeling for Children: If your child struggles with health anxiety, try modeling relaxation techniques. Practice deep breathing together or help them tense and relax their muscles to guide them through the process.

Challenge Negative Beliefs

Health anxiety often involves negative thoughts and beliefs about one’s health. It can be helpful to challenge these thoughts by asking yourself (or your child) questions like:

• What evidence do I have that supports this fear?
• Is there any evidence to suggest that my worries are unfounded?
• Have I had any experiences where my health concerns turned out to be less serious than I anticipated?

This type of cognitive restructuring can be a powerful tool to manage health anxiety, allowing you to gain perspective and reduce overwhelming thoughts.

Speak to Your Provider About Health Anxiety

It’s important to be open with your healthcare provider about your health anxiety. Many providers are accustomed to patients expressing concerns and can provide strategies to help you feel more at ease during medical appointments. One helpful request is to ask for a step-by-step explanation of any procedures or interventions before they begin. This can provide clarity and reduce feelings of uncertainty, which may ease anxiety.

Behavioral Health Support at NFP

If health anxiety is affecting your day-to-day life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. At NFP, we offer integrated care that addresses both the medical and behavioral health needs of our patients. If you are an established patient with us, you may have access to therapy or psychiatric services to help you manage anxiety.

We understand that managing health anxiety can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help. By working with your primary care provider, you can develop a plan to address your mental and emotional needs while continuing to receive the necessary medical care. Our integrated approach means that medical and behavioral health providers regularly collaborate on best practices to support patients, ensuring that you receive comprehensive, holistic care.

There Is Hope

Health anxiety is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With the right strategies and support, it’s possible to manage these overwhelming thoughts and feelings. If you’re struggling, talking to a behavioral health professional can provide invaluable support and guidance as you work toward managing your anxiety and improving your well-being.

Remember, you’re not alone. With the right tools, strategies, and support, it’s entirely possible to find peace and feel more in control of your health and emotions.