Is Your Child a Hypochondriac? 8 Warning Signs of Health Anxiety

What You Should Know

8 Warning Signs You Might Be Raising a Hypochondriac

If every minor scrape or sniffle has your child pleading for a doctor’s visit or asking to check their temperature, it may be time to take action.

Written by Jamie Carter

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: June 7, 2022

Image Credit: GNDphotography/Getty Images

It’s perfectly normal for kids to be alarmed by the unusual sensations their bodies experience. Since they haven’t been in their bodies for long, typical occurrences like coughing up mucus during a cold or feeling a sudden pain after bumping their elbow can be confusing or scary. However, when your child’s concerns about their health escalate to anxiety or panic, it may indicate a more significant issue, such as hypochondria.

Hypochondria, often dismissed as trivial, is a real mental health concern known as health anxiety or illness anxiety disorder. It results in significant healthcare costs annually and has been exacerbated by the rise of the internet, leading to “cyberchondria,” where individuals excessively search their symptoms online, often concluding they are gravely ill.

Around 200,000 people are diagnosed with illness anxiety disorder each year, and according to the Cleveland Clinic, this issue can affect individuals of all ages, including children. If you suspect your child may exhibit signs of health anxiety, consider the following questions:

Do they frequently check for signs of illness?
Children with hypochondria may obsessively monitor their health. Do they often request to have their temperature checked? Are they constantly talking about their health or asking to stay home from school due to feeling unwell? A parent shared on a parenting forum how her little boy exclaims, “I’m sick! I need to see the doctor!” even after a minor cough.
Have they experienced a traumatic event?
Health anxiety can sometimes develop after a frightening event. One mother noted her child’s anxiety spiked after a near-miss accident in a parking lot, leading him to worry excessively about every bump or sniffle.
Do they overreact to minor symptoms?
A child with health anxiety might react dramatically to small issues, like fearing they have a severe allergy from a minor rash or feeling nauseous after a simple hunger pang.
Do they have a fondness for bandages?
For some children, band-aids serve as comfort, akin to a sticker. If your child is always asking for one, even when it’s unnecessary, this could be a sign of health anxiety.
Are they generally anxious?
Kids who are already prone to anxiety may be more likely to develop health-related worries. If your child is often anxious, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional.
Are you anxious about health issues?
Research indicates that while health anxiety in parents doesn’t directly transfer to children, it can influence how parents interpret and respond to their child’s health concerns, potentially leading to heightened anxiety in the child.
Do they have a legitimate health condition?
If your child has a chronic health issue, their worry about their health may spill over into other areas. Complaints like stomachaches or headaches can be symptoms of anxiety rather than physical ailments.
Has this behavior persisted?
While it’s natural for children to be fascinated by health, persistent and disruptive behavior—like refusing to go to school due to unfounded health fears—merits a discussion with your pediatrician. Treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication, can be effective.

Support your child through this challenging time by reassuring them that their concerns are normal and that they are healthy. Redirect their focus to enjoyable activities, helping them to manage their fears without dwelling on them.

For further insights, check out this other blog post and learn more about health-related topics at Healthline.

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Summary:

Identifying health anxiety in your child requires awareness of their behavior towards health issues. By recognizing signs like excessive worry about minor symptoms, fixation on illnesses, or a general pattern of anxiety, you can better address their concerns. If their health fears interfere with daily life, consulting with a pediatrician or mental health professional is advisable. Support and understanding can help your child navigate their fears without escalating them.

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