Ever felt a nagging worry about your health, even when doctors say you’re fine? You’re not alone! Health anxiety, sometimes called hypochondria (though the term is outdated and carries stigma), is a surprisingly common experience. It’s more than just being a little concerned – it’s a persistent, intense fear of having or developing a serious illness, often despite reassuring medical evidence.
This journey will explore the twists and turns of health anxiety, from its subtle beginnings to effective management strategies. Get ready to unravel the mysteries of this often misunderstood condition!
We’ll delve into the fascinating world of health anxiety, examining its symptoms, causes, and the surprisingly effective ways to manage it. We’ll explore the difference between legitimate health concerns and the anxieties that can sometimes overshadow them. Prepare to discover how to navigate the challenging terrain of health anxiety and reclaim your peace of mind.
What is Health Anxiety?
Health anxiety, also known as hypochondriasis (although the term is less frequently used now), is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and excessive worry about having or developing a serious illness. This worry is often disproportionate to the actual risk and persists even after medical reassurance. Individuals with health anxiety may misinterpret normal bodily sensations or minor symptoms as signs of a serious disease, leading to significant distress and impairment in their daily lives.
Core Characteristics of Health Anxiety
Health anxiety involves more than just occasional worry about health. It’s characterized by a preoccupation with the possibility of illness, often focusing on specific symptoms or bodily sensations. This preoccupation consumes a significant amount of time and energy, impacting daily functioning. Individuals may engage in excessive health-related behaviors, such as repeatedly checking their body for signs of illness, seeking reassurance from doctors or loved ones, or avoiding activities that might trigger symptoms.
The fear itself, rather than the presence of any actual physical ailment, is the primary driver of distress. This persistent worry, despite medical reassurance, is a key distinguishing feature.
Distinguishing Health Anxiety from Hypochondria
While the term “hypochondria” was previously used to describe what we now call health anxiety, there are subtle differences. Hypochondria often implied a firmer belief in having a specific, serious illness, even in the face of contradictory medical evidence. Health anxiety, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of concerns and may involve a fear of developing a serious illness in the future, not just a belief that one currently has it.
The focus is less on a specific diagnosis and more on the general fear of illness. The current diagnostic criteria emphasize the excessive worry and anxiety, rather than the conviction of having a particular disease.
Examples of Common Health Anxieties
Individuals with health anxiety may experience a wide range of concerns. Common examples include persistent worry about heart problems (e.g., palpitations interpreted as a heart attack), cancer (e.g., interpreting a mole as cancerous), or neurological disorders (e.g., interpreting a headache as a brain tumor). They might also excessively worry about less serious conditions, such as infections or digestive issues, magnifying minor symptoms into major health crises.
The specific fears can vary greatly from person to person, but the underlying theme is a persistent and excessive fear of illness.
Comparison of Health Anxiety with Other Anxiety Disorders
| Disorder | Core Symptoms | Treatment Approaches | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Anxiety | Excessive worry about illness; misinterpretation of bodily sensations; reassurance-seeking; avoidance of health-related situations. | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, medication (e.g., antidepressants). | Estimates vary, but it’s believed to affect a significant portion of the population, with higher rates among women. |
| Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) | Excessive worry about various aspects of life; restlessness; fatigue; difficulty concentrating. | CBT, medication (e.g., antidepressants, anxiolytics). | Relatively common; affects a significant portion of the population. |
| Panic Disorder | Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks; fear of future attacks; avoidance of situations associated with attacks. | CBT, medication (e.g., antidepressants, anxiolytics). | Affects a substantial number of individuals, with significant impact on daily life. |
| Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Obsessions (recurring intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts) aimed at reducing anxiety. | CBT, exposure and response prevention therapy, medication (e.g., antidepressants). | Significant prevalence; often co-occurs with other anxiety disorders. |
Symptoms and Manifestations of Health Anxiety
Health anxiety, also known as hypochondria, isn’t just about worrying about your health; it’s about experiencing intense, persistent fear and worry that you have or are developing a serious illness, despite medical reassurance to the contrary. These anxieties significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Understanding the diverse ways health anxiety manifests is crucial for effective management and treatment.
The symptoms of health anxiety are multifaceted, encompassing both physical and psychological experiences. The intensity and specific symptoms vary from person to person, but a common thread is the pervasive worry about illness, often focusing on seemingly minor physical sensations.
Physical Symptoms of Health Anxiety
Physical symptoms are often the initial trigger for health anxiety. These sensations are rarely indicative of a serious medical condition, but the individual experiencing health anxiety interprets them as evidence of impending illness. Common physical symptoms include: rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, constipation), muscle tension or aches, trembling or shaking, and persistent fatigue.
It’s important to note that these symptoms are often exacerbated by the anxiety itself, creating a vicious cycle. For example, someone might experience a slightly elevated heart rate after exercise, but interpret it as a sign of a heart condition, leading to increased anxiety and further elevating their heart rate.
Psychological Impact of Health Anxiety on Daily Life
The constant worry and fear associated with health anxiety significantly disrupt daily life. Individuals may find it difficult to concentrate on work or studies, experience persistent sleep disturbances, and struggle with maintaining healthy routines. This persistent state of heightened anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding doctors’ appointments (ironically, due to fear of receiving bad news) or avoiding social situations for fear of feeling unwell and drawing attention to themselves.
The overwhelming nature of the anxiety can lead to significant distress and impairment in various aspects of life. For instance, a person might constantly check their body for new symptoms, leading to a preoccupation with their health that limits their ability to enjoy hobbies or spend time with loved ones.
Impact of Health Anxiety on Relationships and Social Interactions
Health anxiety can strain relationships and significantly affect social interactions. The constant need for reassurance, repeated requests for medical evaluations, and avoidance behaviors can place a considerable burden on partners, family members, and friends. Individuals with health anxiety may isolate themselves to avoid scrutiny or judgment, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The constant worry can also lead to difficulty maintaining intimate relationships, as the anxiety consumes their time and energy, leaving little room for emotional connection and intimacy.
Open communication and understanding from loved ones are crucial in navigating the challenges posed by health anxiety.
Progression of Health Anxiety: From Mild to Severe
Understanding the progression of health anxiety can help individuals and their support systems recognize the need for intervention.
The following points illustrate a potential progression, but it’s important to note that not everyone experiences health anxiety in this exact manner; the severity and progression are highly individual:
- Mild: Occasional worries about health, easily dismissed with reassurance; minimal impact on daily life.
- Moderate: Increased frequency and intensity of health worries; some avoidance behaviors; noticeable impact on daily functioning (e.g., difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances).
- Severe: Overwhelming and persistent health anxiety; significant avoidance behaviors; substantial impairment in daily life; potential development of related conditions like depression or panic disorder; frequent doctor visits despite medical reassurance.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Health anxiety, like many mental health conditions, isn’t caused by a single factor but rather a complex interplay of genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and personal experiences. Understanding these contributing elements is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and promoting overall well-being. This section delves into the various factors that can contribute to the development of health anxiety.
Genetic Predispositions to Health Anxiety
While there isn’t a single “health anxiety gene,” research suggests a genetic component influencing vulnerability. Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or panic disorder, may have a heightened risk of developing health anxiety. This inherited predisposition might involve variations in genes regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play critical roles in mood regulation and anxiety responses.
For example, studies have shown a correlation between specific gene polymorphisms and an increased likelihood of developing anxiety-related conditions, including health anxiety. This doesn’t mean inheriting specific genes guarantees health anxiety; rather, it indicates a potential increased susceptibility.
Environmental Factors in the Development of Health Anxiety
Environmental factors significantly shape an individual’s vulnerability to health anxiety. Exposure to stressful life events, such as significant illness in family members, traumatic accidents, or persistent exposure to negative news about health, can increase the risk. Furthermore, cultural factors and societal pressures emphasizing physical perfection and health can contribute to heightened anxiety about one’s own physical state. For instance, the constant bombardment of health-related information, often focusing on rare or severe conditions, can fuel anxiety and trigger catastrophic thinking in susceptible individuals.
The prevalence of health-related information online also plays a crucial role.
Past Traumatic Experiences and Health Anxiety
Past traumatic experiences, both physical and emotional, can profoundly impact the development of health anxiety. Individuals who have experienced significant trauma may develop heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations and a tendency to interpret physical symptoms as signs of serious illness. For example, someone who survived a severe car accident might develop an intense fear of experiencing similar physical symptoms, interpreting even minor aches or pains as signs of impending injury or death.
This heightened vigilance and fear are often rooted in the attempt to prevent future trauma, even if the connection between the past experience and current symptoms is illogical.
Influence of Personality Traits on Health Anxiety
Certain personality traits can increase susceptibility to health anxiety. Individuals with high levels of neuroticism, characterized by a tendency towards negative emotions and anxiety, are more prone to developing health anxiety. Similarly, individuals with perfectionistic tendencies or a strong need for control might experience heightened anxiety when faced with uncertainties about their health. Conversely, individuals with resilience and a more optimistic outlook may be better equipped to cope with health-related anxieties.
These personality traits interact with other factors to influence the likelihood of developing health anxiety, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this condition.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosing health anxiety, also known as illness anxiety disorder, involves a careful evaluation of a person’s symptoms, thoughts, and behaviors. It’s a process that relies on a combination of clinical interviews, psychological assessments, and the exclusion of other medical conditions. The goal is not only to confirm the diagnosis but also to understand the severity of the anxiety and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The diagnostic process begins with a thorough medical evaluation to rule out any underlying physical illness that might be causing the individual’s concerns. This often involves a physical examination and potentially various medical tests. Once physical causes are excluded, or adequately addressed, the focus shifts to a psychological assessment to determine if the symptoms meet the criteria for health anxiety.
Clinical Interviews
A structured clinical interview is a cornerstone of health anxiety assessment. The clinician will ask specific questions designed to explore the individual’s concerns, the intensity and frequency of their symptoms, and the impact on their daily life. These interviews often utilize standardized questionnaires or rating scales to ensure consistency and objectivity. Examples of questions asked might include: “Can you describe your typical worry about your health?”, “How many hours a day do you spend worrying about getting sick?”, “How much does your health anxiety interfere with your work or social life?”.
The answers provided help the clinician assess the duration and severity of the anxiety, its impact on functioning, and the presence of avoidance behaviors (such as excessive doctor visits or self-examination).
Psychological Assessments
Several standardized psychological assessments are used to measure the severity of health anxiety and related symptoms. These tools provide objective data to supplement the information gathered during the clinical interview. Commonly used assessments include the Whiteley Index, the Illness Anxiety Inventory, and the Health Anxiety Inventory. These questionnaires assess the intensity of health-related anxiety, the frequency of health-related checking behaviors, and the impact of anxiety on daily functioning.
For example, the Whiteley Index measures the frequency and severity of health-related concerns and the extent to which these concerns interfere with daily activities. Higher scores on these assessments indicate more severe health anxiety.
Diagnostic Pathway Flowchart
Imagine a flowchart. It begins with a patient presenting with health concerns. The first step is a thorough medical evaluation to rule out any physical illness. If a physical illness is found, treatment focuses on that illness. If no physical illness is found, or if the physical illness does not fully explain the patient’s distress, then a psychological assessment is conducted.
This assessment includes a clinical interview and potentially standardized questionnaires to evaluate the presence and severity of health anxiety symptoms. If the symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for illness anxiety disorder (as defined in the DSM-5 or ICD-11), a diagnosis of health anxiety is made. If the symptoms do not meet the criteria, a different diagnosis may be considered, or further investigation may be necessary.
The flowchart would visually represent this branching pathway, clearly indicating the decision points and possible outcomes.
Treatment and Management Strategies
Health anxiety, while distressing, is highly treatable. A multi-faceted approach, often combining therapy and sometimes medication, yields the best results. The goal is not to eliminate all worry (that’s unrealistic!), but to manage it effectively so it doesn’t control your life.
Therapeutic Approaches for Health Anxiety
Several therapeutic approaches have proven effective in managing health anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a cornerstone treatment. CBT helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors related to health concerns. Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, gradually exposes individuals to feared situations (like doctor’s appointments or bodily sensations) in a safe and controlled environment, reducing avoidance and anxiety.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on accepting anxious thoughts and feelings without judgment, while committing to valued actions despite discomfort. Finally, mindfulness-based techniques help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without getting swept away by them, fostering a sense of calm and control.
The Role of Medication in Managing Health Anxiety Symptoms
Medication isn’t always necessary, but it can be a valuable tool for some individuals. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders, are often used to manage health anxiety symptoms. These medications help regulate brain chemicals that contribute to anxiety. Benzodiazepines are sometimes used for short-term relief of severe anxiety, but they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to potential for dependence.
A psychiatrist or other qualified medical professional can determine the most appropriate medication and dosage based on individual needs.
Coping Mechanisms and Self-Help Strategies
Beyond professional treatment, several self-help strategies can significantly aid in managing health anxiety. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. A balanced diet and sufficient sleep are crucial for overall well-being and can impact anxiety levels. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help calm the nervous system and reduce anxious thoughts. Keeping a journal can help track triggers and patterns of anxiety, facilitating better self-understanding and management.
Finally, building a strong support system through friends, family, or support groups provides valuable emotional support and reduces feelings of isolation.
Comparative Analysis of Treatment Approaches
| Treatment Approach | Mechanism of Action | Effectiveness | Potential Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) | Identifies and challenges negative thoughts and behaviors. | Highly effective, long-term benefits. | Requires commitment and effort; some initial discomfort during exposure exercises. |
| Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) | Focuses on accepting anxious thoughts and feelings, committing to valued actions. | Effective in reducing emotional distress and improving quality of life. | May require time to adjust to the approach; some individuals find it challenging initially. |
| SSRIs/SNRIs | Regulates brain chemicals related to anxiety. | Can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms for many individuals. | Potential side effects vary, including nausea, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction; some side effects may subside over time. |
| Mindfulness Techniques | Increases self-awareness and reduces reactivity to anxious thoughts. | Complementary treatment; enhances the effectiveness of other therapies. | Requires consistent practice; may not be effective for everyone. |
Living with Health Anxiety
Living with health anxiety can feel like navigating a minefield. Every ache, pain, or unusual sensation can trigger a cascade of worry, leading to significant distress and impacting daily life. However, with the right strategies and support, it’s possible to manage health anxiety effectively and live a fulfilling life. This section offers practical advice and tools to help you take control.
Managing Daily Life with Health Anxiety
Effective daily management involves a multi-pronged approach combining mindfulness, self-care, and practical strategies. This isn’t about eliminating worry entirely – that’s unrealistic – but about learning to manage it so it doesn’t control your life. Consistent effort is key; small, manageable changes accumulate to significant improvements.
Challenging Negative Thought Patterns
Health anxiety often involves catastrophic thinking – jumping to the worst possible conclusion based on minimal evidence. Learning to identify and challenge these thoughts is crucial. This involves actively questioning the validity of these thoughts and replacing them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. Consider keeping a journal to track your thoughts, feelings, and the evidence (or lack thereof) supporting them.
Building a Support System
A strong support system acts as a buffer against the isolating effects of health anxiety. This could include family, friends, support groups, or a therapist. Open communication is vital; sharing your experiences can reduce feelings of shame and isolation.
- Identify potential support sources: Consider family members, close friends, colleagues, or online support groups.
- Start small: Begin by confiding in one trusted person. This could be a friend, family member, or therapist.
- Communicate clearly: Explain your health anxiety and how it affects you. Be honest about your needs and what kind of support you’re seeking.
- Join a support group: Connecting with others who understand your experience can be incredibly validating and helpful. Many online and in-person support groups exist for individuals with health anxiety.
- Seek professional guidance: A therapist can provide personalized strategies for building and maintaining a supportive network.
Seeking Professional Help and Maintaining Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with your doctor are essential, not just for managing any physical health concerns, but also for addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of health anxiety. A doctor can provide reassurance, rule out any genuine medical conditions, and refer you to appropriate mental health professionals if needed. Therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is highly effective in treating health anxiety.
CBT helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping mechanisms. Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a proactive step towards taking control of your mental health.
Health Anxiety in Specific Populations
Health anxiety, while affecting individuals across the spectrum, doesn’t manifest uniformly. Its prevalence, symptoms, and management strategies can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, gender, cultural background, and the presence of co-occurring health conditions. Understanding these variations is crucial for tailoring effective interventions and providing appropriate support.
Prevalence of Health Anxiety Across Age Groups
The experience of health anxiety is not confined to any single age group. While it can emerge at any point in life, certain age ranges exhibit higher prevalence rates. For example, young adults often grapple with health anxiety related to body image and perceived physical imperfections, fueled by social media pressures and comparisons. Older adults, on the other hand, might experience increased health anxiety due to the natural aging process and the heightened risk of developing chronic illnesses.
Children and adolescents may present with somatic complaints and anxieties related to school performance or social situations, often manifesting as physical symptoms. Research consistently shows a peak in health anxiety during adolescence and young adulthood, gradually declining with age, although it remains a significant concern throughout the lifespan.
Health Anxiety Manifestations: Men versus Women
While both men and women experience health anxiety, its presentation can differ. Women are often more likely to report a wider range of somatic symptoms and to seek medical attention more frequently. This may be attributed to societal expectations and gender roles, where expressing vulnerability and seeking help are often more socially acceptable for women. Men, conversely, may internalize their anxieties, potentially leading to delayed help-seeking or the manifestation of anxiety through avoidance behaviors or substance abuse.
Research suggests that men might be more prone to expressing health anxiety through irritability, anger, or difficulty concentrating, rather than directly expressing their worries about their health.
Cultural Influences on Health Anxiety
Cultural factors significantly shape the perception, expression, and management of health anxiety. In some cultures, somatic complaints are more readily accepted as expressions of emotional distress, while in others, open discussion of anxiety might be stigmatized. Cultural beliefs about illness, health-seeking behaviors, and the role of family in healthcare decisions all influence how individuals experience and cope with health anxiety.
For instance, in cultures emphasizing stoicism, individuals might suppress their anxieties, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, in cultures with a strong emphasis on family support, individuals may find solace and support within their family network, aiding in managing their anxiety.
Challenges of Co-occurring Health Conditions and Health Anxiety
Individuals with pre-existing health conditions often face unique challenges when dealing with health anxiety. The presence of a chronic illness can exacerbate existing anxieties, leading to a vicious cycle of worry, symptom amplification, and increased healthcare utilization. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with conditions that involve unpredictable symptoms or require ongoing medical monitoring. For example, someone with a heart condition might experience heightened anxiety with every chest pain, even if the pain is benign.
Effective management in these cases requires a holistic approach that addresses both the physical health condition and the co-occurring health anxiety, often involving collaboration between medical and mental health professionals.
Misconceptions about Health Anxiety
Health anxiety, also known as hypochondria, is often misunderstood, leading to unnecessary distress and delayed treatment. Many people mistakenly believe that those with health anxiety are simply being dramatic or attention-seeking. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Health anxiety is a genuine mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about having or developing a serious illness, despite reassurance from medical professionals.
Understanding the common misconceptions is crucial for both individuals experiencing health anxiety and those supporting them.Many confuse seeking medical attention with excessive health-related worry. While it’s perfectly normal and even advisable to seek medical help when experiencing concerning symptoms, health anxiety involves a level of worry that is disproportionate to the actual risk. This excessive worry often persists even after thorough medical evaluations and reassurances, significantly impacting daily life.
The key difference lies in the intensity, duration, and impact on daily functioning. Someone with legitimate medical concerns will typically experience relief once a diagnosis is received and a treatment plan is in place. In contrast, someone with health anxiety may remain excessively worried even after receiving a clean bill of health.
Differentiating Legitimate Medical Concerns from Health Anxiety
Distinguishing between genuine medical concerns and health anxiety can be challenging, even for healthcare professionals. A crucial factor is the persistence and intensity of worry. Legitimate medical concerns are typically accompanied by specific symptoms that are investigated and addressed by medical professionals. Following a thorough examination, a diagnosis is made, treatment is initiated, and symptoms often improve.
Health anxiety, however, is characterized by persistent worry, even in the absence of clear physical symptoms or after receiving reassuring medical evaluations. For example, experiencing chest pain and seeking medical attention for it is a legitimate concern. However, repeatedly checking for chest pain, even after multiple doctor visits and clear tests, and becoming overwhelmingly anxious about the possibility of a heart attack despite medical reassurance, points towards health anxiety.
Another example would be a person who experiences a minor headache and immediately fears a brain tumor, despite numerous negative medical assessments. The worry and fear are far out of proportion to the actual risk.
Debunking Common Myths about Health Anxiety
It’s vital to address common misconceptions to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.
The following points clarify some frequently held, inaccurate beliefs:
- Myth: People with health anxiety are just faking illness to get attention. Fact: Health anxiety is a real mental health condition causing significant distress and impacting daily life. Individuals are not intentionally trying to deceive others.
- Myth: Ignoring health anxieties will make them go away. Fact: Health anxiety often worsens without treatment. Ignoring the problem can lead to increased anxiety, avoidance behaviors, and a decline in overall well-being.
- Myth: Health anxiety is a sign of weakness or a lack of willpower. Fact: Health anxiety is a complex condition influenced by various factors, including genetics, personality traits, and life experiences. It is not a reflection of personal strength or weakness.
- Myth: Only people with a history of trauma or abuse develop health anxiety. Fact: While past trauma can be a contributing factor, health anxiety can develop in anyone regardless of their background or life experiences.
- Myth: People with health anxiety are simply hypochondriacs and there’s nothing that can be done. Fact: Effective treatments are available, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. With the right support, individuals can significantly manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Closing Notes
So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of health anxiety! While the journey through persistent health worries can be challenging, remember you’re not alone, and effective tools and strategies exist to help you manage your anxieties. From understanding the root causes to implementing coping mechanisms and seeking professional support, you have the power to take control. By embracing self-compassion and actively seeking help when needed, you can navigate the complexities of health anxiety and cultivate a healthier, more balanced life.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for support – your well-being is worth it!
FAQ Resource
What’s the difference between health anxiety and panic attacks?
While both involve intense fear and physical symptoms, health anxiety centers on a fear of illness, while panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort with various physical symptoms, not necessarily linked to illness concerns.
Can health anxiety be cured?
While a complete “cure” isn’t always possible, health anxiety is highly manageable with the right treatment. Therapy and, in some cases, medication can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
How can I tell if my health worries are normal or indicative of health anxiety?
If your worries are excessive, persistent despite medical reassurance, significantly impacting your daily life, and causing distress, it might indicate health anxiety. A mental health professional can help you determine this.
Is health anxiety contagious?
No, health anxiety itself isn’t contagious. However, witnessing a loved one struggle with it might increase the risk of developing similar anxieties in others due to learned behaviors or shared experiences.
