Health related worry can be distressing, but a guide cannot diagnose health anxiety, determine that a symptom is harmless or decide whether a medical assessment is needed. An individual assessment can explore fears, checking, reassurance seeking, avoidance, daily functioning, physical health, medical advice already received and the wider context. Medical review comes first when it is needed New, severe, persistent or concerning physical symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional. Do not delay medical advice, investigations or treatment because an online description resembles health anxiety. Medication questions, a marked change in symptoms, significant substance use or possible specialist needs also require an appropriate medical discussion. Understanding reassurance and checking Some people notice a cycle of searching symptoms, checking the body, asking for reassurance or avoiding health information. These behaviours can sometimes provide short term relief while leaving worry unresolved. That observation does not mean every consultation, test or question is unnecessary. The distinction requires context and should not be made by a webpage. CBT based support and clinician led safeguards Where clinically appropriate, CBT based work may consider interpretations of symptoms, attention, reassurance seeking, avoidance and uncertainty. Behavioural experiments or exposure based work should be planned collaboratively with an appropriately trained clinician, not undertaken as a self directed response to a health concern. The pace and focus depend on assessment, medical advice, risk and the person’s goals. Urgent safety boundaries If you cannot keep yourself safe, have thoughts of harming yourself, experience psychosis, severe agitation, confusion or a sudden marked change in mental state, seek urgent help. In immediate danger, call 999 or attend A&E. Frequently asked questions Can a guide tell whether symptoms are anxiety? No. Physical symptoms need appropriate medical consideration. Does CBT replace medical care? No. CBT based support and medical care may each be relevant depending on the individual situation. For related information, see https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/therapy/health anxiety/, https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/health anxiety west london/, https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/health anxiety recovery/ and https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/therapy/anxiety/. An enquiry can clarify whether CBT based support, medical review, specialist care or another source of help may be the relevant next step.