True hypochondriasis (the medical term) is relatively rare. “A person with hypochondriasis is utterly preoccupied with fears of having a serious disease,” says psychiatrist Diana Dell. And, says psychiatrist Thomas Wise, “a hypochondriac believes his worries are justified,” which is why this person often doesn’t think he has a problem. If you believe you worry too much about your health, Wise suggests you ask yourself if these statements apply to you.

You worry about aches, pains, and bodily sensations that do not trouble others.

You tend to think every ailment is a worst-case scenario.

You call the doctor at the least sign of illness or injury.

Excessive health worries impair your ability to be happy.

If you answered yes to all four, consider asking your primary-care physician about counseling. You may not be a true hypochondriac, but your worries may be caused by anxiety or depression — and in that case you should be treated.