Well hello to you my reader chums! Health anxiety isn't something I talk about a lot online, however, I do struggle with it an awful lot and always have. It doesn't help these days with Instagram and TikTok and the many creators talking about their health in full depth, making me think about all the illnesses I could potentially have.

If you have health anxiety or suffer from hypochondria, here are some tips on how to deal with health anxiety.

Don't Google your symptoms

Google is your enemy with health anxiety. As soon as I feel like something it's wrong, I'll jump on Google and search it up and it always brings up the worst possible scenario and suddenly, I think I have a terrible illness and the panic begins. With that in mind, try and prevent the temptation of searching up your symptoms and instead if the issue is really bothering you, call up your doctors and make an appointment.

Avoid scrolling on social media

Lately, social media has been the WORST for my health anxiety. The algorithm just knows me and I end up getting videos popping up of people talking about their health issues, how to improve health or all the million things in the world which are making me ill. Due to this, I try and prevent scrolling on social media as much as I can, especially when my anxiety is high. And, if I notice I'm going down a black internet hole of health videos, I immediately try and stop myself from watching more and more videos. I only follow accounts that boost positivity rather than trigger my mind.

Reassure yourself that is your mind against you

I find this is the hardest thing to do, especially when my mind is spiralling and I can't control my thoughts. However, I have to really be strict with myself and constantly remind myself that it is just my mind spirallling, it's not real, my mind is just being my enemy. If this is you, repeat it as much as you need to or have a list of affirmations prepared at this moment to run through.

Talk to family and friends with your concerns

Health anxiety can be so isolating and you can feel very alone with your thoughts. I always think I sound overdramatic when I'm talking about it but I can assure you, you don't. Your friends and family are there to listen and help reassure you with any concerns you have. Confide in those you feel safe with to express your feelings and tell people how they can help, sometimes it may just be a listening ear.

Put in place coping mechanisms when you feel triggered

Everyone has trigger points and they're different for each person and it's important to learn what yours are as you can put coping mechanisms in place. Whether it's going for a walk, or journalling your thoughts to putting on a comfort TV show, whatever the coping strategy, practice it as much as possible to learn how it can help you feel better.

Pursue hobbies that make you feel good

A tip I used for general anxiety is pursuing hobbies that make you feel good. Anxiety can be a killer for self-esteem or feeling good about yourself. With that in mind, finding hobbies that spark joy can really help in moments when your mind is spiralling. I love to travel, bake, read, try new restaurants and beach walks. All of these bring a lot of joy and help keep my mind at bay when my health anxiety is triggered. 

I hope you enjoyed this post. What other tips would you add?

Thank you for reading <3