Health anxiety: when worry about your body takes over
How health anxiety shows up, why reassurance doesn’t last, and what actually helps.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
A headache becomes a brain tumor. A skipped heartbeat becomes a heart attack. Health anxiety can turn normal body sensations into constant fear.
What health anxiety looks like
Frequent body checking, searching symptoms online, seeking reassurance from doctors or loved ones, or avoiding care altogether out of fear are common signs.
Why reassurance doesn’t last
A normal test result brings relief, but it often fades quickly. Then a new worry appears. Reassurance can accidentally keep the cycle going.
What helps
Limit symptom searching. Notice sensations without immediately acting on them. CBT helps you test anxious predictions and build tolerance for uncertainty.
Getting care
Always check new or concerning symptoms with a medical provider. If worry about your health is taking over your life, psychiatric care and therapy can help.
A gentle next step
A free 15-minute phone consult is an easy way to see if Wellthy Psychiatry feels like the right fit for you.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
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