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Somatic system disorder, also known as somatic symptom disorder, is a rare and confusing mental health disorder. It manifests when an individual has physical symptoms, such as pain, difficulty breathing, or muscular weakness, and they cannot get their minds off these symptoms. The symptoms may or may not be connected to a medical condition. Either way, however, the person will obsess over their symptoms and will not be able to function properly.
People with somatic system disorder will often worry more than their symptoms warrant, even if there is an underlying condition that is causing them. As a result, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and other problems that have physical ramifications. Therefore, it is important for people with somatic system disorder to get the mental and physical help they need.
People with somatic system disorder typically experience very real physical symptoms of pain, weakness, fatigue, or something else. Therefore, a big part of treating the disorder will be to discover what is causing the underlying symptoms and treat that condition. If, however, the pain is not due to any known condition, treatment will rely on easing the person’s pain and addressing their mental health status.
To address the overarching mental health component of somatic system disorders, affected individuals will likely need cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of psychotherapy with the goal of helping you understand that your symptoms are not as severe as you think they are. CBT also strives to teach you ways of coping with the stress, anxiety, and depression that could stem from your condition.
To receive CBT, you will need to go to a professional counsellor or psychologist. They will help you talk through your condition and help you understand that your symptoms are mostly mental and only partially physical.
In addition to psychotherapy, meditation and relaxation techniques can help you self-soothe when your somatic system disorder is getting the better of you. Meditation and relaxation techniques, such as yoga and deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as help you cope with your symptoms.
Depending on the nature of your symptoms, making lifestyle changes may also be necessary. If, for example, your symptoms are related to obesity, unhealthy eating, or a stagnant lifestyle, you may be asked to eat healthier, lose weight, and exercise regularly. Each of these things are good for any type of mental health condition, but especially for somatic system disorders.
If lifestyle changes, therapy, and other treatments are not helping your somatic system disorder, you may require medications. Medications, specifically antidepressants such as fluoxetine and citalopram, can reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression that commonly accompany somatic system disorder. However, it is not wise to rely on medications as a long-term treatment because of the side effects they can have.
While somatic system disorders are fairly rare and confusing, they are becoming more common. Therefore, it is important to understand the symptoms of these disorders so that you can seek the necessary treatment. In most cases, treating the underlying cause of your symptoms is a great start, but you will require CBT and other treatments to ensure the disorder does not return the next time you experience physical symptoms.