Somatization disorders: when the pain comes from self-suggestion & bull; hello healthy

In today's modern era, the development of information is so fast and easy. This is what can trigger a psychiatric disorder that comes without us knowing it. His vague symptoms make people refuse when the physical symptoms he is experiencing are said to come from his own mind. Because of that refusal, someone finally turned into " doctors shopper ", Aka someone who is always" doctor shopping ", visits many doctors to find out what disease he is suffering from. This disorder is called somatization disorder, which is a physical disturbance that originates in the mind.

Although there is no serious medical condition, the symptoms experienced by patients with somatoform disorders are very disturbing and have the potential to cause emotional stress. This will certainly reduce a person's quality of life. Therefore, let's find out more.

What is somatization disorder?

Somatization disorders or also called somatoforms are a group of psychiatric disorders whose manifestations can be in the form of a variety of physical symptoms that are significant to the patient, but the cause is not found medically. A study in Jakarta stated that in Puskesmas, the most common type of psychiatric disorder was neurosis, which was 25.8%, and included somatoform disorders. This figure is quite large, and is increasing more in urban areas. Patients usually present with certain and specific physical complaints

What are the characteristics of somatization disorder?

1. Usually attacks the age before the age of 30 years and more often in women.
2. Recurrent complaints or physical symptoms, many symptoms and change. Symptoms often experienced by patients include:
   • Stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation
   • Moving headaches
   • Back pain, arm pain, and body joints such as knees and hips
   • Dizziness and even fainting
   • Menstrual problems, such as menstrual cramps
   • Hard to breathe
   • Chest pain and heart palpitations
   • Nausea, bloating, geez
   • Problems with sexual intercourse
   • Sleep disturbances, either insomnia or hypersomnia
   • Weak, tired, lethargic and lack of energy
3. This behavior has been going on for more than 2 years.
4. Patients come accompanied by requests for medical examinations, even to the point of forcing doctors.
5. The results of the medical examination conducted by the doctor did not show any abnormalities that could explain the complaint.
6. Patients usually refuse to discuss possible psychological causes. Patients are always looking for information about their symptoms and behave "knowing".
7. The initial and subsequent symptoms of the complaints experienced are closely related to unpleasant life events or conflicts in the patient's life.
8. Patients usually show attention-seeking (histrionic) behavior, mainly because the patient is dissatisfied and fails to persuade the doctor to accept the thought that the complaint is a physical disease and requires further examination.
9. Patients always refuse to accept advice from doctors who claim that there is no medical abnormality that can explain these symptoms

What if you or a family member experiences somatization disorder?

The first step in stopping somatization disorder is to accept that the symptoms that arise come from the mind. With an accepting attitude, it will be easier for you to cope with the symptoms you are suffering from. Then, gradually break out of the "doctor shopping" habit. Check your symptoms consistently with one doctor and build trust in that doctor.

You should also control the level of stress that can trigger these symptoms to come your way. You do this by doing a lot of physical activity, hobbies, sports, or recreation with your family. In addition, sports that combine physical and mental exercises such as yoga, can be tried as a new experience. Relaxation and breathing can also help relieve symptoms.

The complaints you experience come from your mind, so you have to be able to control them if they start to come. Increase communication with family and friends without helping to forget these symptoms. Joining a new community can also gradually get rid of the symptoms you have been experiencing. If possible, you can ask a trusted doctor to join a certain program. One program for sufferers of this disorder is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). This therapy is one of the effective treatments for managing somatoform disorders in the long term.