Somatoform Disorders

These are a cluster of disorders characterized by multiple, recurring physical complaints that lead to the individual seeking medical treatment or, alternatively, that result in significant impairment in functioning. The onset must be before age 30.

• Is characterized by the presence of a history of all of the following:
• Pain in at least four different parts of the body; at least two, non-pain; gastroinestinal symptoms; at least one non-pain, pseudoneurological symptom (i.e. a symptom suggestive of a neurological condition); not fully the result of a medical condition or a substance.

Antidepressant medication (eg. nefazodone/Serzone)

Is characterized by a minimum of one physical complaint that persists for at least six months and that is not fully the result of medical condition or a substance.

Is characterized by loss of functioning in voluntary motor and sensory function deemed not to be fully the result of a medical condition, a substance, or a phenomenon sanctioned by a culture. The loss of functioning is initiated or exacerbated by a stressful event and is not caused exclusively by pain o sexual dysfunction. Medication have not proven reliable.

• Has the distinguishing feature of pain. Psychological factors are considered to play a significant role.
• Tricyclic antidepressants reduce pain and improve sleep, strengthen the effects of Opioid Medications, as well as moderate depression.

• Is characterized by a non-delusional preoccupation with the idea or fear that the individual has a serious medical condition that persists at least 6 months. The belief represents a faulty interpretation of bodily sensations and persists in spite of medical evidence to contray and reassurance from medical personnel.  Antidepressant medications (SSRIs and Tricyclic) may help with anxiety, fear of disease, and physical (somatic) problems. 
• CBT is the primary treatment. CBT helps individual recognize and understand the false belief that trigger the anxiety about health.

• Is characterized by a preoccupation with a slight or imagined physical defect judged by the individual to negatively affect his or her appearance.
• SSRIs have been the primary medications used for this disorder.
• CBT or behavior modification therapies are highly recommended in addition to medications.
• It is considered a chronic condition and requires maintenance therapy and regulations of SSRIs.

• Is characterized by the repeated feigning of physical and psychological symptoms motivated by a desire to play the sick role, in the absence of financial or other external incentives. 
• There are no medications that actually treat factitous disorder.
• Psychotherapy is primary treatment for the disorder because it focuses on changing the thinking and behavior of the individual with disorder.