Smartwatch Health Anxiety? Here's How to Take Back Control

Experts share tips for managing health data from wearables without letting it fuel hypochondria

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:06pm

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A minimalist illustration in the style of Keith Haring, depicting a smartwatch or fitness tracker defined by vibrant neon lines against a dark background, conveying the concept of health anxiety triggered by wearable technology.Glowing neon outlines of a smartwatch serve as a visual metaphor for the anxiety that can arise from constant health monitoring.Chicago Today

As wearable health devices become more prevalent, some people are finding that the constant stream of health data is fueling health anxiety and hypochondria. Experts recommend taking steps like turning off alerts, being intentional about checking your device, focusing on long-term trends rather than individual metrics, and consulting your doctor to understand what your wearable is actually measuring. They also advise seeking professional help if health anxiety is significantly impacting your life.

Why it matters

The widespread adoption of wearable health trackers has given people unprecedented access to real-time data about their bodies. While this technology can be beneficial for some, it has also led to a rise in health anxiety, with people compulsively checking their devices and spiraling over minor health issues. This can put unnecessary strain on the healthcare system and widen health disparities, as wearables are often expensive and marketed to higher-income consumers.

The details

Wearable health devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers can provide useful data, but the constant stream of information can also trigger health anxiety, especially in people prone to hypochondria. Experts recommend taking steps to manage this, such as turning off alerts that cause panic, being intentional about when and how often you check your device, and focusing on long-term trends rather than individual metrics. It's also crucial to understand the limitations of wearable health data and not use it as a replacement for professional medical advice. Seeking cognitive behavioral therapy can help those with severe health anxiety learn to manage their symptoms.

  • In 2024, a study examined the impact of wearables on the psychological well-being of patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib).
  • In 2025, a review described the psychological effects of wearables on patients with cardiovascular disease.
  • In 2021, a study analyzed the 2019 and 2020 US-based Health Information National Trends Survey and found that using wearable devices for self-tracking can indirectly reduce psychological distress.

The players

Dr. Lindsey Rosman

Assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Cardiology and co-director of the Cardiovascular Device and Data Science Lab at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine.

Dr. Karen Cassiday

Author of "Freedom from Health Anxiety" and owner and managing director of the Anxiety Treatment Center of Greater Chicago.

Shyamal Patel

SVP of science at Oura, maker of the Oura Ring.

Dr. Jacqueline Shreibati

Head of clinical for platforms and devices at Google.

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What they’re saying

“Whether 24/7 access to health information from a wearable actually helps or potentially harms people is really unclear.”

— Dr. Lindsey Rosman, Assistant professor of medicine

“We published a case report on a patient who performed over 900 EKGs on her smartwatch in a single year.”

— Dr. Lindsey Rosman, Assistant professor of medicine

“Often when I work with anxious people, we try to cut back or eliminate the need to compulsively check for reassurance on their wearables, as well as with ChatGPT or other digital 'doctors'.”

— Dr. Karen Cassiday, Owner and managing director, Anxiety Treatment Center of Greater Chicago

“We focus on long-term trends (rather than isolated metrics) to help users maintain a balanced relationship with their data.”

— Dr. Jacqueline Shreibati, Head of clinical for platforms and devices, Google

“Most consumer wearables were originally developed as personal wellness devices, which are not required to demonstrate safety and efficacy like traditional medical devices (e.g., a blood pressure cuff or pacemaker).”

— Dr. Lindsey Rosman, Assistant professor of medicine

What’s next

Rosman's team plans to be the first to investigate the benefits and potential health risks of specific wearable health features in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.

The takeaway

While wearable health devices can provide useful data, the constant stream of information can also trigger health anxiety, especially in people prone to hypochondria. Experts recommend taking steps to manage this, such as customizing alerts, being intentional about checking the devices, and consulting with a doctor to understand the limitations of the data. Seeking professional help is advised if health anxiety is significantly impacting one's life.