Somatic Symptom Disorder: When Your Body Speaks Your Mind

Two months ago, a woman met with one of our psychologists at Koott. She was a 32-year-old corporate employee working in Bangalore. She had consulted a physician with a sharp pain in her right leg, along with nausea and vomiting. She felt weakness in her right leg, which led her to seek the help of her husband to climb the stairs in their house or elsewhere. Physical examinations and scans were conducted to identify the issue; however, nothing showed up to indicate the cause of the pain. Further analysis by the doctor revealed that this woman had experienced previous episodes of unexplained medical symptoms. The woman showed a considerably low mood, emotional instability, and even signs of social withdrawal. She had taken repeated leaves from the company, which led to increased problems at the workplace, further deteriorating her emotional well-being. On the advice of the physician, she consulted one of our psychologists, and it was diagnosed that she was suffering from Somatic Symptom Disorder. 

What is Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Somatic Symptom Disorder is a mental health condition where individuals experience real physical symptoms like pain or fatigue, but these symptoms are linked to psychological distress rather than identifiable medical causes. SSD causes the person to worry excessively about their health, impacting their daily life and emotional well-being.

Globally, an estimated 4.5% to 7% of people suffer from SSD. Yet, awareness about this psychosomatic condition remains low.

SSD vs. Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD)

Although SSD and Illness Anxiety Disorder may seem similar, they are different:

• SSD: Involves real, physical symptoms with excessive emotional reactions.

• IAD: Centers on the fear of having a serious illness, with minimal or no physical symptoms.

Key Features of Somatic Symptom Disorder

1. Physical symptoms- 

Physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue, etc., are present and can vary from mild to severe. There can be only one symptom or multiple symptoms, and this can involve any body system. These symptoms usually have a medical explanation, but the individual's reaction is extreme relative to the actual health concern.

2. Excessive worry- 

Anxiety and worry surrounding the symptoms are core to this disorder. For example, the individual might routinely interpret normal sensations (such as a small pain in the stomach) as a serious illness, repeatedly seek medical help even after negative tests, and remain unconvinced by medical reassurance.

3. Impairment of daily life functioning- 

SSD affects an individual’s ability to function at work, school, or in relationships due to preoccupation and distress.

4. Not faking- 

The individual is not faking the symptoms. They are real, faced by the individual. They may have a medical cause, but often, physical causes are not found for the symptom. 

Common Symptoms of SDD

• Pain

• Fatigue 

• Breathing difficulties

• Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea

• Neurological symptoms like headaches, dizziness

To diagnose an individual with Somatic Symptom Disorder, the symptoms should persist for six months. SSD has been found to develop before the age of 30. It has been found to occur more among women than men. The exact causes of this condition are unknown. However, certain risk factors involved could be:

• Having a negative outlook 

• Excessive physical and emotional sensitivity to pain and other sensations

• Family history or upbringing

• Genetics

• History of physical or sexual abuse

Effects of SSD 

• Poor physical health 

• Impaired mental well-being 

• Reduced productivity at work, school, and in social life

• Relationship issues 

• Frequent healthcare visits and potentially unnecessary tests or procedures

• Financial problems due to repeated hospital visits

• Comorbid psychological conditions like anxiety or depression

• Increased risk of suicide

Treatment of SSD 

SSD is a long-term condition. A combination of medical and psychological help can reduce the severity of the symptoms and enable them to function better in their lives. Treatment usually involves consulting both a physician and a psychologist. The physician will perform the necessary tests to understand the symptoms and provide support in alleviating those symptoms. The individual should also attend counseling sessions, where the therapist uses therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help the client better cope with the symptoms.

Through regular counselling sessions, the individual learns to view their feelings and beliefs about health and their symptoms in a different manner. The therapist also suggests ways or techniques to shift their focus from the symptoms and reduce stress and anxiety related to those symptoms. Individuals with SSD are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety. They are also at an increased risk of developing suicidal tendencies. In such severe cases, therapists offer medications such as antidepressants to reduce the severity of their symptoms. 

Somatic Symptom Disorder is not a condition to be ignored. The earlier you seek help, the better the chances of a healthier tomorrow. Our psychologists provide support to ensure that your thoughts and feelings do not disrupt your daily life. 

Your symptoms are not imaginary.

Your struggles are not fake.

Koott is there for you.

Book your session today!

FAQs

Are Somatic Symptom Disorder and Illness Anxiety the same?

No. They are not the same, but different mental health conditions. SSD involves real physical symptoms and the individual’s excessive response to them. While IAD refers to the fear of having or developing a serious illness, with minimal or no actual physical symptoms present.

Can Somatic Symptom Disorder be treated?

Yes, it can be treated with psychological help offered by psychologists. In certain cases, medications may also be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms. 

Can a patient with SSD develop other mental health conditions like depression?

Yes, individuals with SSD are at an increased risk of developing mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, or even suicidal tendencies.