What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder in Psychology?

Have you ever had physical symptoms—like pain, fatigue, or dizziness—that just wouldn’t go away, even after medical tests showed nothing was wrong? If so, you’ve probably felt confused, frustrated, or even dismissed.

I’ve been there too. I know what it’s like to go from doctor to doctor, trying to explain a very real experience while people look at you like it’s all “just in your head.”

But what if I told you that your body is trying to tell you something—and that there’s a name for what you’re going through?

It’s called somatic symptom disorder, and it's more common than many people realise.

In this article, I want to walk you through what somatic symptom disorder in psychology really is, how it shows up in everyday life, and—most importantly—what you can do about it.

So, What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder in Psychology?

Let’s start with the basics.

Somatic symptom disorder (SSD) is a mental health condition where you experience significant physical symptoms—like pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath—that cause major distress or disruption to your life. The key point here is that these symptoms either can't be fully explained by medical tests or are out of proportion to any minor medical issues found.

Now, let’s be clear: these symptoms are not fake. You’re not making them up, and they’re not “all in your head.” The pain, the discomfort, the fatigue—it’s all very real. The difference is that these physical symptoms are strongly influenced by psychological and emotional factors.

In psychology, this condition falls under the broader category of somatic disorders—mental health issues where the body becomes the stage on which emotional distress plays out.

So when someone asks, “What is somatic disorder in psychology?”, the answer is: it’s when emotional struggles, like anxiety or trauma, manifest physically in the body.

What Is Somatization Disorder in Psychology? Is It the Same Thing?

This is a common point of confusion.

You might have heard the term somatization disorder in older psychology texts or discussions. In fact, it used to be the official name for what we now call somatic symptom disorder. The term was updated in the DSM-5 (the standard classification of mental disorders) to reflect a more accurate understanding of the condition.

So yes, if you’re wondering what is somatization disorder in psychology, it’s essentially the same as SSD—but with a broader and more modern definition today. The focus now is more on the level of distress and impairment caused by the symptoms, rather than on the number or type of symptoms you have.

A Somatic Symptom Disorder Example – What It Looks Like in Real Life

Let me paint a picture.

Imagine someone named Sarah. She’s in her early 30s, healthy on paper, but constantly exhausted. She feels nauseous every morning, has pounding headaches, and her body aches all over. She’s been to GPs, specialists, had blood tests, scans—you name it. Everything comes back normal.

But the symptoms persist. And they’re ruining her life—she’s had to cut back at work, cancel plans with friends, and is starting to feel like she’s losing control of her body.

This could very well be a somatic symptom disorder example.

Sarah’s body is clearly in distress—but no physical illness can explain it. Instead, what’s going on might be psychological stress, anxiety, or unresolved trauma expressing itself through her body.

Does any of this sound familiar?

Somatization Disorder Symptoms – What Should You Look For?

If you’re trying to figure out whether you or someone you love might be experiencing this, here are some common somatization disorder symptoms to be aware of:

• Persistent physical symptoms with no clear medical explanation

• Excessive worry about those symptoms

• Frequent visits to doctors or specialists

• Difficulty accepting reassurances that you're medically okay

• Symptoms that interfere with daily life — work, relationships, self-care

• Emotional distress that seems tied to physical sensations

Symptoms can vary widely. Some people experience pain, others have stomach issues, fatigue, dizziness, or even shortness of breath. It’s not about what the symptom is—it’s about how much it disrupts your life and how deeply it’s linked to psychological stress.

Why Does This Happen?

That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it?

To understand SSD, you need to look at the mind-body connection. Our emotional and physical systems are deeply intertwined. When we suppress emotions, experience trauma, or live under chronic stress, the body can absorb that tension. Over time, it shows up as real, physical pain or dysfunction.

And here’s the kicker: often, people who develop somatic symptom disorder don’t even realise they’re emotionally overwhelmed. The body speaks before the mind catches up.

Somatic Symptom Disorder Treatment – What Can You Do About It?

If you're feeling seen right now, let me say this: you’re not broken and you’re not alone. There is help.

Somatic symptom disorder treatment usually includes a combination of the following:

1. Psychotherapy (Especially CBT or ACT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are both proven to help people with SSD. They can help you reframe how you interpret physical symptoms, reduce anxiety, and build healthier coping strategies.

2. Somatic Therapies

Ironically and beautifully, the most effective way to treat somatic disorders may be through the body itself. Somatic experiencing, body-based mindfulness, and breathwork help release physical tension tied to emotional stress.

3. Psychoeducation

Learning about the condition just like you’re doing now can be incredibly empowering. Understanding that your symptoms are real and valid, and that they’re being influenced by your nervous system, can reduce shame and fear.

4. Medication (Sometimes)

While medication isn’t always necessary, in some cases antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds may be prescribed, especially if SSD is accompanied by depression or generalised anxiety disorder.

Final Thoughts: You're Not Imagining It and You’re Not Alone

So, what is somatic symptom disorder in psychology?

It’s a condition where your body carries the burden of emotional stress and it’s more common than you might think. It’s not about being dramatic or attention-seeking. It’s not about weakness. It’s about being human.

If you’re dealing with unexplained symptoms, and nothing seems to help, consider the possibility that your body might be telling you something deeper. Not because you’re broken, but because you’ve been holding too much, for too long.

The good news? Healing is absolutely possible.

Whether you start with therapy, meditation, somatic practices, or simply by learning more about this condition—you’re taking a powerful step towards reclaiming your health.

And I’m right here with you to help you.

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