Definition

Hypochondriasis (noun) A mental condition characterized by chronic and abnormal anxiety or worry about having a serious illness, despite having only minor or imaginary symptoms and after medical reassurance that no serious illness is present.

Usage

Hypochondriasis is a clinical term used in psychology and psychiatry. It describes a persistent preoccupation with the fear of having, or the idea that one has, a severe disease, based on a misinterpretation of bodily sensations.

Examples

• The patient's constant visits to different specialists, despite normal test results, were a clear sign of hypochondriasis.
• His hypochondriasis led him to spend hours researching diseases online, which only increased his anxiety.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective treatment for hypochondriasis.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a clinical or diagnostic context. In more general conversation, a person with this condition might be called a "hypochondriac."
• The concept is related to, but distinct from, somatization disorder, where psychological distress is expressed as physical symptoms.

Variants and Related Words

• Hypochondriac (noun): A person who suffers from hypochondriasis.
  • He is a hypochondriac who worries about every minor ache.
• Hypochondriac (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of hypochondriasis.
  • She had hypochondriac fears about her health.
• Hypochondria: A more common, non-clinical synonym for hypochondriasis.
• Illness anxiety disorder: A newer diagnostic term that is often used synonymously with or to describe conditions similar to hypochondriasis.

Synonyms

• Health anxiety
• Illness phobia
• Hypochondria

Antonyms

• Indifference to health
• Stoicism (regarding physical symptoms)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To be a hypochondriac: This is the most common idiomatic usage, meaning to be a person who constantly worries about being ill.
  • Don't be such a hypochondriac; it's just a common cold.

Noun

1. chronic and abnormal anxiety about imaginary symptoms and ailments