Understanding Somatic Symptom Disorder
When physical symptoms have no medical explanation — your pain is still real.
What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder?
Somatic Symptom Disorder involves having physical symptoms — like pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath — that cause significant distress and disruption, even when no physical cause can be found.
This doesn't mean the symptoms aren't real. The pain and discomfort are genuine — the mind and body are deeply connected.
Common Experiences
Persistent physical symptoms that don't have a clear medical explanation.
Excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviours related to the symptoms.
High levels of anxiety about health.
Spending a lot of time and energy dealing with health concerns.
Symptoms may worsen during times of stress.
What Helps
CBT can help change the way you think about and respond to physical symptoms.
Building a trusting relationship with one healthcare provider reduces unnecessary tests.
Stress management and relaxation techniques can reduce symptom severity.
Gentle, regular exercise can improve both physical and mental health.
Accepting that mind and body are connected is an important step — it's not 'all in your head'.