Harmful Myths about Psychophysiologic Disorders (formerly known as Psychosomatic Symptoms)

There are many myths and misconceptions about psychophysiologic pain or illness that are believed not only by the public but by most health care professionals, too. Recent studies have revealed the truth about these which supports a new and far more effective approach to this condition.

Myth: Psychosomatic symptoms are “all in your head” and are not real.

Truth: Pain or illness not caused by disease or injury are generated by changes in nerve circuits in the brain and are just as real as any other form of illness. For this reason, the new term for this condition is Psychophysiologic Disorder (PPD), a blend of psychology and physiology. PPD can happen to anyone.

Myth: Psychophysiologic symptoms have no definite cause.

Truth: PPD is caused by past or present psychosocial stress that often is not fully recognized by the patient. This stress can be diagnosed as successfully as any other form of illness.

Myth: Psychophysiologic pain or illness does not respond well to treatment so the best that can be hoped for is living with the condition.

Truth: The past or present psychosocial stress that causes PPD can be treated at least as successfully as other forms of illness.

Myth: PPD symptoms are milder than other forms of illness.

Truth: PPD can be just as severe as any other form of illness. PPD can lead to hospitalization, can persist for decades, and can cause dozens of symptoms simultaneously.

Myth: People with PPD are psychologically weak or mentally ill and cannot manage normal levels of stress.

Truth: People with PPD are psychologically strong but are coping with much higher levels of stress than they recognize. Once the stresses are uncovered and treated, the many strengths of these patients become clear.

Myth: Either you have a disease or injury, or you have PPD.

Truth: PPD can contribute to pain or illness that is caused by disease or injury. Both can be present simultaneously. The best way to determine if there is a contribution to symptoms from the brain is to identify and treat past or present psychosocial stresses and observe the response. Many who have done this have been pleasantly surprised by their improvement.

Myth: Focusing on psychosocial stress is a distraction that can hinder recovery from disease or injury.

Truth: There is no contradiction and no harm from working on stress and on possible disease or injury at the same time. If significant psychosocial stresses are present, they deserve attention for their own sake.

Myth: PPD is uncommon compared to most other diseases.

Truth: PPD is very common and responsible for symptoms in about 20% of adults and 40% of people who see a primary care physician. PPD is nearly twice as prevalent as diabetes.

To summarize: Disease Or Injury Are Not The Only Causes Of Pain Or Illness.

The brain can generate real symptoms when high levels of stress are not fully recognized. This occurs in many people with strong, healthy minds, affecting one in six adults and one in three primary care patients.

How does the brain do this? Research shows changes in the nerve pathways in the brain. These occur in people with stress, trauma, and repressed emotions that often are linked to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). 

Fortunately, new research shows Pain Relief Psychology achieves far better relief of pain and illness than older approaches.