Understanding Health Anxiety OCD
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
Whenever your head hurts, you feel pain in your stomach, or you have some type of rash on your body, you immediately run to Google. You’re hoping someone online can describe the same signs and symptoms you’ve been experiencing. Maybe you can match any physical signs to an image online. You’re looking for answers, and you want them quickly. You don’t have time to wait around to see if it will go away on its own. You’re already concerned that there could be a larger issue at hand.
If you find yourself obsessively looking up any physical symptoms you may be having, there’s a chance you could be experiencing Health Anxiety OCD.
What is Health Anxiety OCD?
Health Anxiety OCD is one of the many different subtypes of obsessive-compulsive disorder. This type of OCD causes an individual to have anxiety and obsessive thoughts over developing a medical condition.
The Cause
Similar to other types of OCD, there isn’t one specific cause of Health Anxiety OCD. Several factors can play a role in developing Health Anxiety OCD, and OCD in general. These are some of the most common factors that are believed to play a role in someone developing Health Anxiety OCD:
Genetics or family history
Hyperactive amygdala
Learned behavior
Low levels of dopamine
Low levels of serotonin
The Obsessions
The signs and symptoms of Health Anxiety OCD are related to obsessing over developing a medical condition that could be serious or life-threatening. These are some of the most common obsessions that someone with Health Anxiety OCD may face:
Concern that common signs like aches and pains mean a more serious issue or illness
Fear of certain words (cancer, heart attack, diabetes)
Lack of trust in the accuracy of doctors, nurses, or medical testing
Worry that hearing about a disease will make them develop that disease
The Compulsions
In order to try to manage and cope with these negative and intrusive thoughts, someone with Health Anxiety OCD will perform compulsions to relieve some of their anxiety. These are some of the most common compulsions that an individual with Health Anxiety OCD may perform:
Checking body sensations
Excessive washing of hands or body
Avoiding the doctor
Hopping around to and from different doctors in order to receive more medical testing
Excessive Researching their signs and symptoms online
Requesting medical testing or a second opinion when they don’t believe the accuracy of a test or believe they have something that they don’t actually have
Seeking constant reassurance from doctors, friends, and family
OCD Treatment Options San Diego, CA
It’s time to stop getting all of your answers from the internet. One of the best ways to actually better understand your OCD and to better manage the signs and symptoms you may be experiencing is to reach out for help. Google isn’t your only option, and there are better options available to you.
Try reaching out to a licensed and trained mental health professional. A therapist will be able to help you get to the root cause of your health anxiety OCD. They’ll help you identify any signs or symptoms and help you learn to better manage these over time.
Your OCD does not define you. With the right amount of time and dedication, you can regain control over your life. When you’re ready, reach out to us today to set up a consultation.
How can I find an OCD therapist near me
At Resilience Counseling, we specialize in treating Health Anxiety OCD. The majority of the clients we work with are struggling with OCD, and this is the work we do day in and day out. Our therapists are highly trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and have helped many people overcome the challenges of health-related fears and intrusive thoughts. You're not alone in this—we’re here to help you take back control and find relief. Contact us today to get started!
Author Bio: Katherine Pica OCD Therapy - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica is the owner and clinical director of Resilience Counseling. She provides clinical supervision and guidance to all therapists on the team, ensuring high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based care for every client. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 18 years! Trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine and her team bring years of experience! Available in San Diego, CA for in person and all over California for video therapy.
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
