Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to PTSD: Understanding Trauma-Informed Approaches
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Understanding the Impact: Somatic Symptom Disorder as a Result of PTSD
Somatic Symptom Disorder: The Unseen Trauma Consequence of PTSD
When considering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it's common to focus on the overwhelming emotional aftermath. However, PTSD's repercussions extend beyond the mind and directly into the body, causing a disorder known as somatic symptom disorder, secondary to PTSD. This is a rarely discussed consequence and we'll explore it in this article.
Key Points Covered in this Article
- Understanding PTSD and Somatic Symptom Disorder
- The Connection between PTSD and Somatic Symptom Disorder
- Impact of PTSD on Physical Health
- Trauma-Informed Approaches to Treating Somatic Symptom Disorder
- Importance of Education and Training in Understanding Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur when someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Problems may arise, however, if the body's stress response doesn't return to normal following the event. This can lead to various health problems, including somatic symptom disorder secondary to PTSD.
"Somatic symptom disorder involves experiencing significant distress or being overly concerned about physical symptoms to the point, they interfere with daily life and functioning."
Somatic symptoms that might occur as a result of PTSD include chronic pain, fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, and other stress-related symptoms. These symptoms typically persist despite multiple medical evaluations and assurances that "everything seems fine."
The PTSD and Somatic Symptom Disorder Connection
Studies have found a significant correlation between PTSD and somatic symptoms. After traumatic events, some people might show signs of both psychological distress and physical ailments.
"PTSD affects not only the mind but also the body, resulting in somatic symptoms."
The PTSD Impact on Physical Health
Facing a traumatic event might cause a consistent overreaction of the body's stress-response system, triggering a continuous release of a hormone known as cortisol. Prolonged exposure to this hormone may cause physical ailments such as pain, heart disease, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems.
"Emotional trauma can also manifest as physical symptoms in the body."
Trauma-Informed Approaches to Treating Somatic Symptom Disorder
Understanding the connection between PTSD and somatic symptom disorder can guide therapeutic approaches. Mental health professionals use trauma-informed care that acknowledges the impact of trauma on physical health.
"Treating somatic symptoms related to PTSD requires an understanding of how body and mind interact, and this is where trauma-informed care comes in."
This approach involves not only managing physical symptoms but also helping people understand their trauma and its relation to those symptoms. This can involve cognitive behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and other techniques that enable individuals to manage stress more effectively.
Educating for Better Understanding
Education and training for both practitioners and patients are crucial parts of understanding and treating somatic symptom disorder as a secondary condition to PTSD. Understanding that the physical ailments are not just "in their head" can help sufferers feel validated and more open to treatment.
"Education and validation can relieve the stigma and confusion associated with somatic symptom disorder."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Somatic Symptom Disorder?Somatic Symptom Disorder involves a person having a significant focus on physical symptoms — to the point that it causes major emotional distress and problems functioning.
How is Somatic Symptom Disorder linked to PTSD?Trauma and stress from PTSD can cause physical symptoms in the body, known as Somatic Symptom Disorder.
How can somatic symptoms caused by PTSD be treated?Treatment includes trauma-informed approaches that acknowledge the impact of trauma and provide ways to manage stress. This might include cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical therapy, medication, and mindfulness techniques.
With comprehensive information in hand, the path to understanding somatic symptom disorder secondary to PTSD becomes clearer. We at the Aura Institute are committed to not just offering information but a learning environment and resources for those seeking to understand the complex network of mental health.
Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.