Illness Anxiety Disorder (Hypochondriasis)
Illness Anxiety Disorder involves preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness, even when medical evaluation shows no significant pathology.
Illness Anxiety Disorder (Hypochondriasis)
Illness Anxiety Disorder involves preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness, even when medical evaluation shows no significant pathology. Unlike SSD, physical symptoms may be minimal or absent; the distress comes from anxiety about the possibility of illness rather than the symptoms themselves. Individuals often interpret minor bodily sensations as serious disease, leading to repeated medical tests or doctor visits. In Saudi Arabia, where healthcare access is increasing, some patients may repeatedly seek evaluations for reassurance, but the anxiety remains persistent.
What constitutes Illness Anxiety Disorder?
- Preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness
- Minimal or no somatic symptoms
- High level of health anxiety and reassurance-seeking
- Lasting at least six months, causing distress or impairment
Symptoms and warning signs
- Excessive monitoring of body for signs of illness
- Frequent doctor visits or online medical research
- Persistent fear despite normal test results
- Avoidance of situations perceived as risky for illness
- Anxiety and depression secondary to persistent worry
Causes and risk factors
- Family history of anxiety or somatic disorders
- Past experiences of serious illness in self or family
- Personality traits: high vigilance, perfectionism, neuroticism
- Stressful life events or loss
Treatment approaches
- CBT: reducing health anxiety and reassurance-seeking behaviors
- Psychoeducation: explaining mind-body connection and normal bodily sensations
- Medication: SSRIs or other anxiolytics when anxiety is severe
- Lifestyle: mindfulness, relaxation, structured routines to reduce focus on health
Why Act Center for Illness Anxiety Disorder (Hypochondriasis) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?
Our experienced therapists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia provide treatment to reduce health-related anxiety and compulsive reassurance-seeking behaviors, helping patients break the cycle of worry about illness.
Get Professional Support
Our experienced team is here to help you navigate illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) with evidence-based treatment and compassionate care.
Explore Our Services
We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services tailored to support you on your journey to wellness.