"Fear of Serious Illness Linked to Higher Death Rate, Swedish Study Reveals"

A large Swedish study has found that individuals diagnosed with hypochondria, now known as illness anxiety disorder, have a higher risk of death compared to those who do not excessively worry about their health. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, revealed that people with the disorder have an increased risk of death from both natural and unnatural causes, particularly suicide. The researchers suggest that chronic stress may contribute to this higher mortality rate. Treatment options for hypochondria include cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, education, and sometimes antidepressant medication.