Psychosomatic Illnesses: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Psychosomatic Illnesses: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
May 24 2025 TalktoAngel 0 comments 401 Views
Have you ever experienced physical symptoms like stomach pain, headaches, or fatigue without any clear medical reason? You’re not alone. These could be signs of a psychosomatic illness — a health condition where mental or emotional stress causes or worsens physical symptoms.
Let’s explore what psychosomatic illnesses are, what causes them, the common symptoms, how they are diagnosed, and the treatments that can help. Understanding this connection between mind and body can help people heal more effectively.
What Are Psychosomatic Illnesses?
The term "psychosomatic" comes from two Greek words: psyche (mind) and soma (body). This doesn’t mean the person is "faking it." The pain or symptoms are very real, but they are linked to psychological stress, anxiety, or unresolved emotions.
For example, someone under a lot of stress at work might develop frequent headaches or stomach issues. A person dealing with trauma or depression may feel chronic fatigue or body aches.
Causes of Psychosomatic Illnesses
- Chronic Stress:- Prolonged stress affects the nervous system, weakens the immune system, and disturbs digestion and sleep — all of which can lead to physical symptoms.
- Unresolved Emotions:- People who suppress their emotions, especially grief, anger, or sadness, may experience them through the body instead of expressing them verbally.
- Anxiety and Depression:- Mental health conditions like generalised anxiety disorder or depression are often linked to physical symptoms like pain, nausea, or dizziness.
- Past Trauma:- Traumatic experiences, especially if left untreated, can result in long-term physical effects like muscle tension, fatigue, and autoimmune issues.
- Personality Factors:- Some people, especially those with perfectionist or overly self-critical traits, may be more vulnerable to psychosomatic symptoms when under pressure.
Common Symptoms of Psychosomatic Illnesses
Psychosomatic symptoms can vary from person to person, but they usually involve:
- Headaches or migraines
- Stomach pain or digestive problems (IBS, nausea, ulcers)
- Fatigue or low energy
- Muscle pain or tension
- Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep disturbances
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Skin issues (rashes, eczema)
These symptoms are often not explained by medical tests, or tests may show mild changes that don’t match the intensity of the symptoms.
How Are Psychosomatic Illnesses Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a psychosomatic disorder can be challenging because physical symptoms are present, but no clear medical cause is found.
Doctors usually take the following steps:
- Medical Evaluation: They begin by ruling out any medical conditions through physical exams and tests.
- Psychological Assessment: If no physical cause is found, a psychologist or psychiatrist may assess emotional and mental health history.
- Symptom Patterns: They may look at when symptoms worsen — for example, during stressful periods or emotional events.
- History of Trauma or Stress: Past emotional trauma, grief, abuse, or high-stress environments may point to a psychosomatic root.
- It’s important to note that these illnesses are not “all in your head.” The symptoms are real and painful, but they need a mind-body approach to heal.
Treatment for Psychosomatic Illnesses
Treating psychosomatic illnesses requires addressing both the body and the mind. Here are some effective approaches:
1. Psychotherapy
Counselling or therapy is one of the most effective treatments. Some commonly used therapies include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps people identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to symptoms.
- Psychodynamic Therapy: Focuses on uncovering unresolved emotional conflicts or trauma.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Teaches individuals to be aware of the present moment, reducing the impact of stress.
2. Stress Management
Relaxation techniques such as:
- Deep breathing
- Meditation
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Yoga
These help calm the nervous system and reduce the intensity of symptoms.
3. Medication
Sometimes, medications like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs are prescribed to manage symptoms, especially if a person is also dealing with depression or anxiety.
4. Lifestyle Changes
Encouraging regular exercise, a healthy diet, good sleep habits, and building supportive relationships are key to long-term recovery.
5. Psychoeducation
Understanding the mind-body link empowers patients. When people realise how emotions can affect the body, they often feel more in control and less fearful about their symptoms.
Role of Counselling in Healing Psychosomatic Illnesses
Counsellors and psychologists play a vital role in helping clients explore the root emotional causes behind their symptoms. They:
- Provide a safe space to express emotions
- Help patients develop coping strategies
- Work with clients on behavioural changes to reduce stress
Counseling is not just about treating symptoms, but helping people understand and manage their emotional and physical health together.
Conclusion
Psychosomatic illnesses remind us of one powerful truth: the mind and body are deeply connected. When emotional pain is not addressed, it can find expression through the body. But with the right support, these conditions are treatable.
If you or someone you know is struggling with unexplained physical symptoms, don’t ignore them. Seek help from a trained counsellor or mental health professional. Healing often begins by understanding ourselves more deeply, both emotionally and physically.
Contributed By: Dr. (Prof.) R. K. Suri, Clinical Psychologist and Life Coach, &. Ms. Sakshi Dhankhar, Counselling Psychologist.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
- Gatchel, R. J., & Oordt, M. S. (2003). Clinical health psychology and primary care: Practical advice and clinical guidance for successful collaboration. American Psychological Association.
- Kroenke, K., & Rosmalen, J. G. (2006). Symptoms, syndromes, and the value of psychiatric diagnostics in patients who present with physical symptoms. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 163(6), 904–914. https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.2006.163.6.904
- Taylor, G. J., & Bagby, R. M. (2012). Psychosomatic medicine and the alexithymia construct. Psychosomatics, 53(6), 547–556. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psym.2012.09.004
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