Question 1

What is Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) involves one or more distressing physical symptoms that are accompanied by excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to those symptoms. The symptoms may or may not have a medical explanation, but the distress and impairment they cause are disproportionate to any underlying medical condition.

Question 2

How is Somatic Symptom Disorder diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

A. One or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or result in significant disruption of daily life. B. Excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to the somatic symptoms or associated health concerns as manifested by at least one of the following: (1) Disproportionate and persistent thoughts about the seriousness of one's symptoms. (2) Persistently high level of anxiety about health or symptoms. (3) Excessive time and energy devoted to these symptoms or health concerns. C. Although any one somatic symptom may not be continuously present, the state of being symptomatic is persistent (typically more than 6 months).

Question 3

What treatments are available for Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for Somatic Symptom Disorder typically includes psychotherapy.

Question 4

Can Somatic Symptom Disorder be cured?

Accepted Answer

Chronic course for many individuals, but with appropriate treatment—including psychotherapy and collaborative medical care—symptoms and functional impairment can be reduced. Early intervention improves prognosis.

Somatic Symptom Disorder

Overview

Description

Prevalence

Age of Onset

DSM-5 Code

ICD-10 Code

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Prognosis

Neurobiology

Risk Factors

Comorbidities

Warning Signs

Impact On Life

Treatment Goals

When To Seek Help

Real Life Examples

Evaluation Approach

Developmental Stages

Self Help Strategies

Treatment Approaches

Overdiagnosis Factors

Missed Diagnosis Factors

Seeking Help for Somatic Symptom Disorder?