Author: Jolian Ardolino
(Image credit: Unsplash: Angelina Sarycheva)
If you’re here, it’s likely because you care deeply for those around you – whether you’re a nurse, paramedic, therapist, social worker, or involved in other vital community roles. However, it’s important to acknowledge something we often overlook: taking care of others can quietly affect our own wellbeing, especially in the context of health anxiety.
The Hidden Burden of Health Anxiety in Caring Professions
People in caring professions are usually seen as unflappable during crises – the steady presence when chaos ensues, the rational voice when emotions run high. But what happens when your own thoughts begin to spiral? When a small discomfort leads you to a sleepless night full of searches online, or when the stories you hear at work fuel worries about your own health or that of your loved ones?
Health anxiety goes beyond mere “worrying” or being a hypochondriac. It’s a legitimate and widespread issue for those who care for others. According to NHS surveys, 76% of staff reported experiencing mental health challenges last year, with over half dealing with anxiety. We absorb the pain of others and face uncertainties, often internalizing that anxiety until it affects our own mindset and behavior.
Why Caring Professionals Are Vulnerable to Health Anxiety
Caring roles expose us to illness, unpredictability, and loss regularly. We’re trained to look for signs of problems – a useful skill that can backfire, leading to cycles of health anxiety. Many of us excel at putting our own needs aside. My clients (and I too have experienced this) frequently find it hard to switch off “helper mode” and prioritize their own well-being. So it’s no surprise that health anxiety can sneak in.
Identifying the Symptoms
Health anxiety can appear in both subtle and more obvious ways:
– Constant Checking: Regularly monitoring your body for symptoms, seeking reassurance repeatedly, or getting lost in online research about health issues.
– Fixation: Difficulty concentrating on anything other than health concerns, even away from work.
– Avoidance: Steering clear of certain situations or tasks out of fear of becoming ill.
– Physical Symptoms: Genuine sensations (like heart palpitations, headaches, or stomach issues) that reaffirm anxious thoughts.
– Sleep Disruption: Lying awake at night, unable to quiet your thoughts.
My Holistic Approach: You’re Not Alone
As a therapist focused on anxiety, stress, and burnout among caring professionals, I recognize the unique challenges you face – not just as a clinician but as someone familiar with your experiences. At Ardolino Counselling, my approach entails:
– CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): We explore the cycle of anxious thoughts and actions, learning practical methods to break free from harmful patterns. CBT helps question catastrophic thinking and gently examine healthier beliefs.
– ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy): We aim to embrace uncertainty, learning how to “unhook” from distressing thoughts and focus on what truly matters – without aiming to eliminate anxiety completely.
– Person-Centered Therapy: All our sessions are founded on compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and strengths.
It’s not about fixing you – it’s about collaborating to ensure you can continue your vital work without being overwhelmed.
(Image credit: Unsplash: Tim Mossholder)
Practical Strategies for Daily Coping
1. Challenge Catastrophic Thoughts
When a health worry arises, take a moment and ask yourself: “What evidence supports this thought? Am I jumping to conclusions?” Label these thoughts as “catastrophic” and consider: “What’s a more realistic or balanced view?” Reflect on how plausible this new perspective is and how you would act differently if you believed it.
2. Ground Yourself in the Moment
When anxiety escalates, try grounding techniques such as box breathing or the “5-4-3-2-1” exercise: identify five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This will anchor you in the present.
3. Limit Reassurance Seeking and ‘Dr. Google’
Pay attention to when you’re looking for reassurance – whether you’re asking coworkers, searching online, or scrutinizing your body. Set gentle limits on these behaviors, reminding yourself: “Uncertainty can be uncomfortable, but I can manage it.” Reducing reassurance-seeking can help interrupt the cycle of anxiety.
4. Establish Boundaries to Preserve Your Energy
Allow yourself to decline extra responsibilities or step back from work-related worries outside of your scheduled hours. Small routines – like taking a walk after work or having a tech-free hour – can help strengthen this boundary and promote your wellbeing.
5. Seek Support
If anxiety remains unresolved, discussing your feelings with a trusted friend, colleague, or therapist can provide clarity and ease. You don’t have to face this alone.
When to Seek Help
It’s normal to experience worry, but you should consider reaching out for help if:
– Health anxiety disrupts your work, relationships, or everyday life.
– You find it difficult to “switch off,” even when away from work.
– You’re avoiding certain situations or tasks out of health fears.
– Your anxiety is worsening over time rather than improving.
Mental health challenges are prevalent and not something to feel ashamed of. Seeking assistance is not a sign of weakness – it’s a step toward restoring balance and resilience. Many caring professionals find that confiding in someone outside their immediate work environment helps them navigate fears and adopt healthier coping mechanisms.
Ready for Real Change?
If health anxiety is making your beloved job tougher, you deserve support tailored to your needs as a caring professional. At Ardolino Counselling, I provide a free, low-pressure 15-minute consultation to determine whether therapy feels suitable for you. Sessions are offered throughout the UK (online or in Barry, South Wales) with flexible availability, including Fridays, evenings, and weekends.
Special Offer for Blue Light Card Holders:
Holders can receive 50% off their first 8 sessions. Block bookings are also available for additional savings.
You provide so much care and expertise to others; let’s ensure you receive that same support in return.
Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident version of yourself.
This post contains a sponsored link and was written by Jolian Ardolino, therapist.