Question

What are some examples of normal physical symptoms that someone with somatic symptom disorder might interpret catastrophically? How might a psychologist detect the difference between headaches due to physical factors and those that might be conversion symptoms? Lastly, what are some of the treatments that have been developed for somatic symptom and related disorders?

Answer 1

People suffering from somatic symptom disorder mai experience multiple somatic symptoms that may be distressing to them and may cause significant disruption in daily life.

People having this disorder may attribute normal bodily sensations to physical illnesses that too with catastrophic interpretations of the same. For instance, pain is the most common symptom experienced by those suffering from this disorder. A common pain in the stomach may be misinterpreted as serious problems in the stomach like stomach cancer or ulcers.

It becomes very difficult for psychologists and psychiatrists to diagnose Somatic and conversion disorders. However, in order to be able to detect the difference between actual headaches and those as a result of conversion disorder, a psychologist can see if there is any medical evidence or medical cause of the headache. If at all the symptom of the headache cannot be explained by any sort of medical evaluation then it can be said that the person is experiencing conversion symptom.

Some treatment options that can help treat somatic symptom and related disorders include psychotherapy and medications. Psychotherapy can help ease excessive anxiety and distress which can help improve the symptoms experienced. The use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help to deal with the physical symptoms that are experienced and increase effectiveness in daily functioning. Medications like use of antidepressants can help to deal with depressive symptoms that arise as a result of the disorder. Family therapy can also help. Family members can be trained to help and deal with the client so that the family can act as a support for the client.

Hope this answer helps!