2.1.8 Somatisation Disorder
Somatisation Disorder
Somatization disorder, also known as somatic symptom disorder, is a mental health condition in which a person experiences physical symptoms without an identifiable medical cause. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and often cause significant distress and disruption to daily functioning. The disorder is thought to stem from a complex interplay of psychological, biological, and social factors, with patients often experiencing excessive worry and anxiety about their health. Treatment for somatization disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and self-help techniques aimed at reducing symptom severity, alleviating anxiety, and improving the overall quality of life.
Prevalence/Incidence:
Somatisation disorder is a relatively rare condition, with a prevalence rate of 0.2% to 2% in the general population (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Aetiology:
The exact cause of somatisation disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
Presentation:
Somatisation disorder is characterized by multiple physical complaints, such as pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, and neurological symptoms, that cannot be explained by a medical condition.
Treatment:
The treatment of somatisation disorder involves a multidisciplinary approach, including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and patient education.
Outcome:
The prognosis for somatisation disorder is variable, with some individuals experiencing persistent symptoms and functional impairment, while others may have a more favourable outcome with treatment.
| Somatisation Disorder | |
| Prevalence/Incidence | 0.2%-2% |
| Onset | Adulthood |
| Gender | More common in females |
| Aetiology | Combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors |
| Presentation | Multiple physical complaints that cannot be explained by a medical condition |
| Treatment | A multidisciplinary approach, including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and patient education |
| Outcome | Variable, with some individuals experiencing persistent symptoms and functional impairment |
References:
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
- Van Der Hart, O., Nijenhuis, E. R., & Steele, K. (2010). The haunted self: Structural dissociation and the treatment of chronic traumatization. WW Norton & Company.