I think I’m a bit of a hypochondriac, and maybe it’s because I’m kind of a perfectionist (control freak). How do I know if my hypochondriac tendencies are normal or if I have a real problem?

Answers (3)

Dr. Ramani Durvasula (Licensed Clinical Psychologist) answered (8/9/2012)

Whenever we consider whether something is a "problem" we stop to consider whether it is interfering with the person's life. Are you so preoccupied with your health that it is distracting you from other things? Work? Relationships? Are you seeking out second and third opinions? Are you anxious about your health problems at a level that disrupts sleep, appetite, concentration? There are certainly individual differences in how "attuned" some people are to the little squeaks their bodies make - and people who tend to be more focused on control and order may have a greater likelihood of doing this. But take a step back - reflect on how much it is impacting your life. And always, when in doubt, consider seeking out the services of a licensed mental health practitioner to discuss this further.

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Dr. Melanie Zermeno, MD (Psychiatrist) answered (2/1/2011)

Perfectionism and hypochondria (the fear of having disease) frequently go hand in hand. Both are symptoms of anxiety.

Perfectionists typically feel calm and in control by maintaining their external environment in an ordered fashion. When things are disorganized or haphazard, perfectionists frequently feel anxious and overwhelmed. Similarly, hypochondriacs feel calm and in control when their internal environment (or body) is free of any unpleasant feelings. They often scan their body for sensations and then fear that these sensations may indicate a serious illness. This in turn makes them feel anxious and overwhelmed.

To a certain degree, perfectionism and hypochondriasis can be adaptive and beneficial. Perfectionists are often successful because of they are so meticulous and conscientious. Hypochondriacs are more likely to be in good health because they are attentive to their bodies, maintain their regular checkup schedule and notify their doctor of discomfort or illness.

However, when these traits become preoccupations, individuals can experience difficulties functioning. The fear of doing something wrong or "not perfect enough" can lead to procrastination and paralysis of even simple action due to intense anxiety. And extreme worry about one's body can create obsessive checking for signs of symptoms of illness, leaving little ability to focus one's attention on anything else.

The best way to gauge where you stand in this spectrum is by reflecting on how preoccupied you are by being perfect or by fearing illness. Do these tendencies stand in the way of your social, academic, career or home life? Or are they fleeting thoughts that you can reason your way out of easily?

If you think that the need to be perfect or the fear of illness interferes with your ability to function, you should consult a psychiatrist or therapist for a thorough evaluation and treatment.