Somatic Function Disorders

Characterized by an extreme focus on physical symptoms — such as pain or fatigue — that causes major emotional distress and problems functioning.

Includes:

Eating Disorders
Tic Disorders
Obesity
Sleep Disorders

You may or may not have another diagnosed medical condition associated with these symptoms, but your reaction to the symptoms is not normal.

You often think the worst about your symptoms and frequently seek medical care, continuing to search for an explanation even when other serious conditions have been excluded. Health concerns may become such a central focus of your life that it’s hard to function, sometimes leading to disability.

If you have somatic symptom disorder, you may experience significant emotional and physical distress. Treatment can help ease symptoms, help you cope and improve your quality of life.

More Articles

  • Anxiety Disorders

    A group of mental disorders characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear. These feelings may cause physical symptoms, such as a fast heart rate and shakiness.

  • Behavioral Disorders

    Behavioral disorders involve a pattern of disruptive behaviors in children that last for at least 6 months and cause problems in school, at home and in social situations.

  • Developmental Disorders

    One of several disorders that interrupt normal development in childhood. With early intervention, most specific developmental disorders can be accommodated and overcome.

  • Mood Disorders

    A psychological disorder characterized by the elevation or lowering of a person’s mood, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

  • Psychoses

    Conditions that affect the mind, where there has been some loss of contact with reality.

  • Somatic Function Disorders

    Characterized by an extreme focus on physical symptoms — such as pain or fatigue — that causes major emotional distress and problems functioning.