Somatoform Disorders Essay Example

the body, which can include one or multiple losses of voluntary motor or sensory function.

Reports suggest that patients who exhibit symptoms are not deliberately displaying them, and the loss of function associated with these symptoms does not seem related to medical conditions or cultural responses. Rather, it may indicate psychological connections. Pain disorder is a condition where a person experiences intense localized pain that cannot be attributed to any identifiable medical cause and cannot be alleviated through medication. This type of pain can occur in one or more areas of the body, and those experiencing it do not intend for it to happen.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder, categorized as a somatoform disorder, causes individuals to perceive an imaginary physical flaw. Although it may lead to an intense preoccupation with plastic surgery, it is distinct from other body-related psychological conditions like factitious disorder or malingering. Factitious disorder involves purposefully generating symptoms for personal gain or to avoid responsibilities.

When individuals who are feigning illness obtain what they desire, their physical symptoms will cease. In contrast, those with Factitious disorder intentionally produce physical or psychological symptoms, such as self-harm, in order to garner attention. Many techniques may be employed to treat somatoform disorder, including psychosocial interventions. A nurse or other medical professional may suggest Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy to minimize the patient's distress and decrease their desire for medical evaluation. Additionally, psychoeducation is a valuable tool for explaining how stress and emotional distress can contribute to physical symptoms.

Targeted interventions are now available for various types of somatoform disorders. To manage symptoms related to bodily disturbances, medical treatment can be used to reduce physical discomfort. Psychopharmacological treatment is aimed at addressing emotional

disturbances and other coexisting mental health conditions. Techniques like relaxation, biofeedback, and stress management can help reduce emotional and physical arousal. Psychological interventions focusing on attention training, distraction tools, hypnosis or environmental manipulation can also effectively reduce body awareness and physiological disturbances (Looper, 2002).

Individuals with Somatization disorder typically decline psychotherapy, believing that their physical symptoms indicate an illness. Instead, Behavior therapy or hypnosis have shown to be beneficial treatments for Conversion disorder. To prevent the reoccurrence of abnormal gait, which is interpreted as an inappropriate response to stress, stress management counseling is utilized. Hypnosis may also be a potential treatment option for Conversion disorder.

To treat Hypochondriasis, physicians may use different methods such as electromyography biofeedback, behavioral reinforcement with strategic "double bind" therapy, hypnosis combined with lorazepam and amobarbital interviewing. It is important for medical professionals to provide explanatory therapy and answer all patient's questions in order to ease their anxiety. Individuals affected by this disorder may believe that they are overemphasizing their symptoms; however, healthcare providers can educate them about their condition and assist them in expressing their emotions. Psychosocial theorists suggest that those with this disorder tend to internalize stress, anxiety, and frustration rather than expressing them externally.

By encouraging the individual to openly communicate their emotions and incorporating recommended alternative medicine, it is feasible to alleviate their ailment.