Definition & Meaning of "psychosomatic disorder"

Psychosomatic disorder

a psychological condition characterized by physical symptoms that derive from mental or emotional causes, often without any medical explanation

What is a "psychosomatic disorder"?

A psychosomatic disorder is a condition where physical symptoms are caused or worsened by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, trauma, or emotional distress. In other words, emotional or mental factors trigger physical symptoms without an underlying medical cause. Examples of psychosomatic disorders include tension headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic pain syndromes. Treatment usually involves addressing both the physical symptoms and the underlying psychological factors through therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, and stress management strategies.

Example

A psychosomatic disorder is a condition in which physical symptoms are caused or aggravated by psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or emotional distress.

Individuals with a psychosomatic disorder may experience symptoms such as headaches, stomach pain, or fatigue that have no apparent medical cause.

Treatment for psychosomatic disorders often involves addressing underlying psychological stressors through therapy, relaxation techniques, and stress management strategies.