How the Need for Certainty Shapes Health Decisions

Many people turn to the internet for fast answers when something feels uncertain about their health. This episode explores why that urge is so powerful — and how it can sometimes increase, rather than reduce, distress.

Drawing on evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses, we examine the links between health anxiety, repeated online searching, and intolerance of uncertainty. You’ll learn why reassurance is often short-lived, how conflicting information can restart the search loop, and why certainty is rarely realistic in biology.

The episode also highlights evidence-supported ways people can interrupt these cycles, including approaches aligned with cognitive–behavioural techniques. Instead of chasing perfect answers, the focus shifts toward seeking clarity — enough understanding to make a reasonable next step.

Listen to the episode and read the full evidence in The Evidence Edit.