HEALTH ANXIETY: COMMON TRIGGERS TO LOOK OUT FOR

Health or illness anxiety often isn’t about wanting attention or being dramatic. It’s a very real cycle of fear and worry that can feel overwhelming. Knowing the typical triggers can help you (or someone you care about) recognise what sets off the spiral:

🔸 Physical sensations – Everyday body changes like headaches, stomach aches, dizziness, or heart palpitations can be misinterpreted as signs of something serious.

🔸 Medical information – Reading or hearing about illnesses (in the news, online, or through social media) can quickly fuel fears.

🔸 Doctor visits or test results – Even normal check-ups, waiting for results, or ambiguous medical language can trigger anxiety.

🔸 Stories from others – Hearing about someone else’s health struggles can lead to comparisons and heightened worry.

🔸 Stress & fatigue – Being run down makes it harder to think rationally, often amplifying health concerns.

🔸 Avoidance or reassurance-seeking
Constantly googling symptoms, checking your body, or repeatedly asking for reassurance can temporarily reduce anxiety but often makes it stronger long term.

👉 The key is remembering: anxiety is amplifying the danger signal. Recognising your triggers is the first step to breaking the cycle.

If you live with health anxiety, you’re not alone and support is out there.