ArticleBJPsych open2025
Mental and somatic health burdens of hypochondriacal disorder in higher education: national study among Norwegian students.
Article in BJPsych open, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundHypochondriacal disorder involves persistent anxiety about suffering from an undetected serious medical condition, despite medical reassurance. Hypochondriacal disorder significantly affects social relationships, occupational functioning and personal well-being. In university settings, where mental health concerns are prevalent, insights into prevalence of hypochondriacal disorder and associations with depression and other health challenges are essential.
aimsThis study examines the prevalence and correlates of hypochondriacal disorder among Norwegian university students, focusing on its associations with depression, mental distress and somatic symptom burden.
methodThe 2022 Students' Health and Wellbeing Study, a national survey of Norwegian higher education students, included 59 536 participants aged 18-35. Participants were categorised based on a pre-defined diagnostic list of mental and somatic concerns, and participants were grouped as follows: hypochondriacal disorder only, depression only, comorbid hypochondriacal disorder and depression and controls. Validated instruments included the Somatic Symptom Scale-8, the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, an abbreviated version of the University of California, Los Angeles, Three-Item Loneliness Scale and four items on suicidal ideation.
resultsHypochondriacal disorder was reported by 0.86% (
conclusionAlthough uncommon, hypochondriacal disorder is linked to severe mental and somatic health burdens, particularly when co-occurring with depression. These findings highlight the need for integrated mental health strategies in academic settings to address hypochondriacal disorder and its frequent comorbidities.
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