Hypochondria (aka Illness Anxiety Disorder) in Bipolar Disorder Examined

Exploring the confusion caused when symptoms of bipolar mimic physical health conditions

What happens when bipolar disorder collides with hypochondria? Is it even possible for someone to have both conditions? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a psychiatrist) tackle the complex overlap between bipolar disorder and what’s often called hypochondria but is now known as illness anxiety disorder.

Together, they explore the confusion that comes when symptoms of panic, mania, or depression mimic physical health conditions — and why people with bipolar disorder often have trouble being taken seriously in medical settings. From emergency room misdiagnoses to the fear of “crying wolf” during a health scare, our hosts unpack the stigma and frustration many face when advocating for their physical health.

Key takeaways:

-the difference between illness anxiety disorder (hypochondria) and bipolar symptoms
-why people with mental illness are often dismissed in healthcare
-how therapy can help reduce overwhelming health fears

You’ll also hear practical advice on how to tell the difference between anxiety and a medical emergency, the importance of knowing your symptom patterns, and why having a consistent primary care doctor is crucial. Listen now!