The significance of psychotherapy in the treatment of psychosomatic disorders

The close relationship between physical and mental health has long been a concern for professionals. Psychosomatic disorders are phenomena where the mental state is expressed through physical symptoms. This connection is extremely complex, and various emotional and psychological factors can play a role in the development of physical complaints.

We often hear questions such as “Why does my head hurt?” or “Why can’t I digest this situation?” These expressions suggest that stress or emotional tension experienced in everyday life can generate physical symptoms. Research shows that a significant portion of headaches and stomach pains is related to psychological states and is often a consequence of stress or emotional blocks.

These complaints often cannot be localized to a specific organ, and even the most advanced medical examinations do not always uncover the causes. Nevertheless, the suffering and pain are real, making it essential to seriously address the understanding and treatment of patients’ complaints.

The Basics of Psychosomatic Medicine

Psychosomatic medicine examines the interactions of physical, mental, and social factors in understanding the development of diseases. According to the bio-psycho-social approach, various external influences, such as workplace stress, family problems, or social pressures, can lead to physical symptoms. For example, a workplace conflict, divorce, or the loss of a loved one can impose significant psychological burdens that manifest in our bodies.

In cases of chronic stress or unresolved losses, symptoms may intensify, and classical medical treatments often provide only temporary solutions. It is common for the effects of medications to diminish, and physical complaints to reappear, possibly in new forms.

These phenomena indicate that our ability to manage stress, our temperament, and the influences we experience all affect our susceptibility to psychosomatic disorders. Therefore, physical symptoms may represent a form of releasing tension generated by stress.

Stress and Mental Balance

The mental processes resulting from stress can be likened to a pressure cooker. Under increasing pressure, the system becomes tenser, and if the valves do not function properly or the pressure rises too high, the cooker can explode. Similar balance issues can arise in our mental functioning, especially when our ability to manage stress cannot keep pace with the pressures we face.

If our body cannot handle the accumulated stress, the tension may erupt through physical symptoms. Our susceptibility to psychosomatic disorders depends on our ability to manage stress, our personality, and the influences we encounter. Therefore, appropriate self-awareness and the acquisition of stress management techniques are crucial.

Psychotherapeutic Approaches

Psychotherapy can be an effective tool in the prevention and treatment of psychosomatic disorders. Patients often try to express psychological problems through physical symptoms that are difficult to articulate in words. Numerous psychotherapeutic methods can contribute to recovery and help alleviate symptoms.

Psychodynamic therapy, for example, assists patients in achieving self-awareness and insights by uncovering deeper psychological processes. In contrast, cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on transforming negative thoughts. Relaxation techniques aim to reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, movement and dance therapy groups aid healing by enhancing body awareness, particularly in cases where verbal expression of problems is challenging.

Mindfulness practice can also be useful in preventing psychosomatic disorders. Finally, it is important to emphasize that psychosomatic problems typically affect not only the individual but also family members. Therefore, family therapy and the involvement of relatives can be essential in the treatment process.