dhypocondrie

Hypochondrie, also known as hypochondriasis, is a psychological condition characterized by an excessive preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness. Individuals with this pattern may closely monitor bodily sensations, misinterpret normal or mild symptoms as signs of disease, and repeatedly seek medical reassurance. The focus is not on a specific illness but on the fear of illness itself.

In current psychiatric practice, the term hypochondria is largely replaced by illness anxiety disorder (IAD) when somatic symptoms are minimal or absent. When a person has prominent somatic symptoms alongside health anxiety, the presentation may be described as somatic symptom disorder (SSD). In the ICD-11 framework, related concerns about bodily distress are addressed under broader categories such as bodily distress disorders. Despite terminology changes, the core feature remains excessive worry about health that persists despite medical evaluation and reassurance.

Clinical features include persistent worry about serious illness, frequent medical appointments, health-related checking or avoidance of medical care, and difficulty functioning due to health concerns. Duration is typically at least six months, though the intensity can fluctuate. Medical workups are usually unrewarding, and excessive testing can reinforce the anxiety.

Causes are multifactorial, involving cognitive biases (catastrophizing), anxious temperament, past medical experiences, and stress. Risk factors include a history of illness in childhood, personality traits such as neuroticism, and comorbid anxiety or depressive disorders.

Treatment focuses on reducing health-related anxiety and improving functioning. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is evidence-based and often effective. Regular, scheduled contact with a primary care provider can help without encouraging unnecessary testing. Psychoeducation, stress management, and, when appropriate, pharmacotherapy such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be used to treat coexisting anxiety or mood disorders. Prognosis improves with appropriate treatment but can be chronic without ongoing care.