Definition & Meaning of "hypochondria"

What is "hypochondria"?

Hypochondria, also known as illness anxiety disorder, is a condition where a person is overly worried about having a serious illness despite having little or no medical evidence to support it. Individuals with hypochondria often mistake normal bodily sensations as signs of a serious medical condition, leading to constant anxiety and obsession with health concerns. This excessive worry can significantly interfere with daily life, causing distress and reduced functioning. Treatment usually involves therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to help individuals challenge their irrational health-related fears and learn coping strategies to manage anxiety.