What is a Psychosomatic Disorder ?
All illnesses can be considered to be psychosomatic. That is, they inevitably
involve the mind's reaction (psyche) to a physical (soma) illness. However, in
some illnesses, psychological factors seem to play a particularly important
part. They can influence not only the cause of the illness, but can also worsen
the symptoms and affect the course of the disorder. It is these illnesses that
are termed psychosomatic disorders. Many doctors believe that illnesses such
as ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, eczema, high blood pressure and heart
attacks are strongly influenced by psychological factors. Sometimes
psychological factors can cause ill health without actually causing a disease.
As a result of unhappiness, anxiety or stress due to personal problems, physical
symptoms may develop. We are all familiar with the headache that develops as a
result of stress. Similarly, other physical symptoms can develop. These include
nausea, abdominal pain and chest pain.
How does a Psychosomatic Disorder occur ?
Illness can be due to many factors. It can occur as a result of social or
environmental factors. It may also happen as a result of genetic or hereditary
reasons: a tendency for a certain condition to run in families. Some families
also tend to suppress feelings: any emotion then tends to be expressed by
physical symptoms. Children can learn this behavior which may continue to adult
life.
Why does a Psychosomatic Disorder occur ?
Why the illness occurs at a particular time is often a mystery. It could be that
a combination of the factors mentioned above triggers off the illness. Should
there be untoward stress due to personal problems at home or at work, or a
bereavement, then an illness may result. We know for instance that certain life
events such as moving house, getting divorced or suffering a bereavement can
precipitate physical illnesses. Similarly, an existing illness may worsen as a
result of these stresses.