Somatoform disorders
(Dysmorphophobia, food intake disorders - anorexia nervosa)
A mental disorder can initially appear with physical symptoms. Mental health professionals apply the term somatoform disorders to any psychological condition that appear in the form of physical disorder, having previously ruled out any possible pathologic cause. Several subcategories of this disorder appear before the age of thirty, although the vast majority of patients develop the disorder between the age of thirty to forty. Moreover, somatomorf disorders are more frequent to women.
Some people are more likely to develop a somatoform disorder, especially those who have blood relatives with such a disorder, as well as those who have a history of depression or other major mental disorder. There are other factors that play a role in the development of this disorder. Some patients may develop physical symptoms in order to avoid the stigma to be diagnosed with a mental disorder. Some patients may have a lower threshold (limit) of pain, leading to overreaction or extreme anxiety by several stimuli they receive from their bodies. Some patients develop a pessimistic way of thinking and express extensive worries regarding physical changes or possible signs of disease.
Researchers have also discovered some form of association between abnormal levels of serotonin (a chemical substance produced in the brain, involved in the communication between nerve cells) and the occurrence of this particular disorder.
Psychosocial causes may also be involved in the development of this disorder, such as unrealistic idealization of body image and the pursuit of perfection, often advertised in the media.
These disorders can be treated with medicines called “serotonin reuptake inhibitors” as well as with cognitive psychotherapy.