Somatoform Disorder Essentials
The American Psychiatric Association currently recognizes four main somatoform disorders:- Somatic symptom disorder
- Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondria)
- Conversion disorder (also known as functional neurological symptom disorder), and
- Factitious disorder
Causes of Somatic Symptom Disorder
Although no one truly knows why somatic symptom disorder occurs, doctors and researchers have identified several underlying factors that tend to increase your risks. These factors include:- Your age (most cases occur in people under the age of 30)
- The presence of a generally negative take on life
- An unusual physical sensitivity to pain or other physical feelings
- An unusual emotional sensitivity to pain or other physical feelings
- A family history of the condition, and
- Certain details of your genetic background
Causes of Illness Anxiety Disorder
Three main factors appear to increase your chances of developing illness anxiety disorder. They are:- Lack of knowledge about the effects of disease and/or lack of an ability to accurately interpret physical sensations in your body
- Fear based on a personal history of serious or severe childhood illness, and
- Growing up in a family that fosters anxiety about health-related matters
Causes of Conversion Disorder
Most people affected by conversion disorder rapidly develop symptoms after living through an especially stressful or traumatic event or situation. Experts believe that these symptoms may represent a mental/emotional conflict triggered by stress or trauma. Generally speaking, your chances of developing conversion disorder increase if you:- Have a medically verified physical health condition
- Have any one of 10 diagnosable personality disorders, or
- Have serious symptoms of dissociation (a sense of detachment from reality or from your own body or mind)
Causes of Factitious Disorder
Experts believe that factitious disorder has both mental/psychological and physical/biological roots. However, no one really knows how these factors interact in any single affected person. You may have increased risks for the disorder if you:- Were neglected, physically abused or sexually abused during childhood
- Have a personal history of frequent, serious health problems treated in a hospital, or
- Have a family history of these same types of health problems
Treatment for Somatoform Disorders
Treatment for somatoform disorders focuses on addressing the underlying psychological factors that contribute to these physical symptoms:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is often the first-line treatment for somatoform disorders. It involves working with a licensed therapist or counselor to identify and address the underlying thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be contributing to physical symptoms. Through various techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapists help individuals challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Medications
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage physical symptoms associated with somatoform disorders. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be helpful in reducing pain, anxiety, and other physical symptoms that can result from psychological distress. However, it’s essential to note that medication alone is not considered an effective long-term treatment for somatoform disorders.
Get Help Today from The Ranch TN
If you or someone you know is struggling with a somatoform disorder, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Recovery Ranch TN offers specialized treatment for somatoform disorders that can help individuals regain control of their lives and manage their symptoms.
Our team of experienced professionals understands the complexities of somatoform disorders and provides personalized care to address each individual’s unique needs. Don’t wait any longer, reach out to The Ranch TN today at 470.571.3586 and start your journey towards recovery.
