Hypochondria: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the ancient Greek 'hypochondrion,' referring to the area below the ribs, where they believed some emotional and mental disorders originated.
• In the 18th century, it was commonly associated with 'melancholia' or deep sadness, linking it to feelings of helplessness about health.

Psychology

• Clinical studies show that hypochondria can be linked to anxiety disorders, often manifesting as excessive focus on bodily sensations.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common treatment, helping individuals challenge their fears and reduce anxiety related to health.

Pop Culture

• In literature and media, characters suffering from hypochondria often serve as comedic relief, showcasing their irrational fears in exaggerated ways.
• Popular films have depicted hypochondriacs, often highlighting the contrast between their exaggerated fears and the reality of their health.

Historical Perspectives

• In the past, hypochondria was thought to be caused by an imbalance of bodily fluids, named 'humors,' leading to a range of physical and mental symptoms.
• Famous figures, like the playwright Molière, incorporated hypochondriacal characters in their works, reflecting societal attitudes toward health anxieties.

Health

• Recent research suggests that hypochondria may be connected to the brain's response to stressful situations, making the body more sensitive to normal sensations.
• Populations experiencing high levels of stress, such as during a pandemic, have reported increased symptoms of hypochondria.

This word's position of #32,969 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

• ...
• 32966 unsentimental
• 32967 spoor
• 32968 gassy
• 32969 hypochondria
• 32970 sharia
• 32971 creationism
• 32972 unbuckled
• ...