What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is a mental health condition characterized by an intense, disproportionate focus on physical symptoms–such as pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath–that cause emotional distress. While the physical discomfort is deeply real to the individual, the level of anxiety, time, and energy dedicated to these symptoms is excessive and disrupts daily life.

The identifying feature of SSD is the overwhelming emotional and behavioral response to discomfort. Recognizing this early is essential for reducing distress, preventing unnecessary medical testing, and improving daily quality of life.

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What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is a mental health condition characterized by an intense, disproportionate focus on physical symptoms–such as pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath–that cause emotional distress. While the physical discomfort is deeply real to the individual, the level of anxiety, time, and energy dedicated to these symptoms is excessive and disrupts daily life.

The identifying feature of SSD is the overwhelming emotional and behavioral response to discomfort. Recognizing this early is essential for reducing distress, preventing unnecessary medical testing, and improving daily quality of life.

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Causes of Somatic Symptom Disorder

Researchers suggest that a genetic predisposition to heightened sensitivity to pain or physical sensations can make an individual more vulnerable to developing somatic symptom disorder, although the exact cause is complex and generally involves a combination of factors.

Personality traits, such as high anxiety, a tendency toward negativity, or a history of trauma and chronic illness, can play a significant role.

What Are the Symptoms of Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Symptoms of somatic symptom disorder manifest as excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to physical sensations. Individuals develop persistent anxiety regarding their health, frequently checking for abnormalities, and repeatedly seeking reassurance from multiple doctors.

Physical symptoms can range from localized pain, chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, or neurological complaints. This disorder can begin to strain relationships, work, or cause emotional exhaustion.

How Is Somatic Symptom Disorder Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, and a licensed psychiatric provider will thoroughly review your medical history, discuss the nature of physical symptoms, and evaluate specific thoughts, anxiety and your experience in response to them.

The intense focus on somatic symptoms must be persistent, typically longer than 6 months, and significantly impact daily functioning to meet the criteria for somatic symptom disorder.

Treatment for Somatic Symptom Disorder

Treatment is personalized based on each individual’s unique symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. Somatic symptom disorder bridges the gap between physical sensations and mental distress, so a collaborative and supportive approach is key to helping individuals regain control.

Cognitive behavioral therapy may help reframe catastrophic thoughts about health and reduce body-checking behaviors, and sometimes medication management, such as antidepressants, can be integrated.

After a thorough evaluation, a licensed psychiatric provider at Remedy Psychiatry will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Related Conditions We Treat

Anxiety Disorders

Support for persistent, excessive worry regarding multiple everyday topics, such as health, work, or family, independent of a specific physical focus.

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Depression

Comprehensive treatment for persistent low mood, emotional exhaustion, and fatigue that frequently co-occur alongside chronic health anxiety.

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Panic Disorder

Treatment for sudden, recurring episodes of intense physical fear and panic attacks that can cause individuals to worry excessively about their physical health and heart rate.

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FAQ

How does Remedy support patients with Social Anxiety Disorder?

Remedy Psychiatry provides comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans that directly address the emotional distress and behavioral loops associated with physical symptoms.

Do I need to take medication for Social Anxiety Disorder?

Not necessarily. Many individuals find relief through specialized therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing thought patterns regarding bodily sensations. However, if underlying anxiety or depression is intensifying your physical symptoms, targeted medication can be a highly effective supportive tool.

Is online psychiatry effective?

Yes. Virtual psychiatry offers a structured, low-stress environment that is highly effective for treating somatic symptom disorder. Attending appointments from the comfort of home reduces the urge to seek immediate, repetitive emergency medical visits and allows you to establish a consistent, trusting relationship with your Remedy provider.