Depending on the severity of the health anxiety – and to what extent it is impacting a person’s daily life – there are a range of different treatments and techniques available to reduce the levels of anxiety a person may be feeling.

“Cognitive behavioural therapy, other psychological treatments, antidepressants and mindfulness have all been shown to help,” explains Dr Pastides.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), is a therapy technique commonly used in the treatment/management of anxiety disorders. Unlike some other therapy techniques, CBT doesn’t focus on any past trauma a person may have dealt with; instead, the therapist will work with their patient to challenge the negative thoughts they’ve been experiencing and establish new patterns of thinking they can use to overcome their anxiety.

However, if CBT has been recommended by your GP, there may be a significant amount of waiting time before your first appointment. In this case, it’s important to try out a few self-help or mindfulness techniques to help you in the meantime.

Health anxiety and hypochondria: everything you need to know