Sometimes, when you’re under a lot of stress or feeling extremely anxious, you might find yourself walking around in a daze. You may also know someone who constantly feels sick, even when all their medical tests come back normal.

These are mild signs of somatic symptom disorder (SSD), something everyone experiences from time to time. But if these symptoms become severe, happen often, and cause serious distress in your life, it could mean you have SSD.

In 2025, about 5% to 7% of people have somatic symptom disorder, and women are more likely to be affected than men. The good news is that treatment can help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the best ways to manage SSD, helping you change negative thought patterns and cope better with symptoms. Regular check-ins with a trusted doctor can also make a big difference.

What is a Somatic symptom disorder?

Somatic symptom disorder is when you focus too much on physical symptoms like pain or fatigue, causing emotional distress and anxiety. Even if medical tests show nothing serious, you may still feel convinced that something is wrong.

What Are The Symptoms of Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) causes people to focus too much on physical symptoms, even when no serious medical issue is found. Here are some common symptoms:

Pain

You may feel aching, cramping, or sharp pain in different parts of your body, like muscles, joints, or bones. This pain can come and go or stay for a long time, making it hard to do daily activities.

Fatigue

Feeling tired all the time, even after resting, is common. You may struggle with low energy and have trouble staying active throughout the day. Sleep problems can also make fatigue worse.

Shortness of Breath

You may feel like you can’t get enough air, even if your lungs and heart are healthy. This can add to anxiety and make you feel more distressed.

Dizziness

Feeling lightheaded or unsteady is another symptom of SSD. It may happen suddenly and make it difficult to focus or move around safely.

Headaches

Frequent headaches or migraines may occur, sometimes without a clear cause. The pain can range from mild to severe, affecting concentration and daily life.

Dry Mouth

You might often feel like your mouth is dry, even when you drink enough water. This can be uncomfortable and may be linked to stress or anxiety.

Hot or Cold Sweats

You may experience sudden sweating, either feeling too hot or too cold. This symptom often happens with anxiety or stress.

Trouble Concentrating

Focusing on tasks or conversations may be difficult. Your mind might keep going back to your physical symptoms, making it hard to pay attention to other things.

Memory Problems

You may struggle to remember things, feel forgetful, or have trouble recalling details. Anxiety and stress can make this worse over time.

Extreme Anxiety About Symptoms

You may worry too much about your symptoms, fearing they mean you have a serious illness. Even if doctors reassure you, the fear may not go away.

Uncertainty About Mild Symptoms

A small ache or discomfort can feel like a sign of a major health issue. This can cause ongoing stress and lead to frequent doctor visits.

Difficulty Functioning in Daily Life

Constant worry about your health can make it hard to focus on work, relationships, or daily tasks. You may spend a lot of time thinking about symptoms, checking your body, or searching for answers.

Following are a few noteworthy observations about the extreme feelings

• Seeing usual bodily feelings as a symbol of a big physical sickness.
• Dreading that the signs are severe, even when there is no proof.
• Thinking that bodily feelings are intimidating or damaging
• Feel that the medicinal assessment has not been conducted systematically.
• Fearing that physical activity may cause damage to your body
• Frequently monitoring your physical for anomalies
• Frequent health care visits that don’t relieve your concerns or that make them worse

What is Somatic Symptom Disorder Treatment?

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is treated with a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes to help you manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. The goal is to reduce distress, improve coping skills, and enhance quality of life.

1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Therapy helps you understand and manage your symptoms effectively. Common approaches include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Helps identify negative thoughts about health and replace them with healthier thinking patterns.
  • Teaches coping strategies for managing pain, fatigue, and anxiety.
  • Encourages engaging in daily activities despite symptoms.

• Family Therapy

  • Helps family members understand SSD and provide emotional support.
  • Improves communication and reduces stress within the family.

2. Medications

While medications are not a primary treatment, they can help manage related symptoms like depression and anxiety:

• Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) – Reduce symptoms of depression and may also help with pain.
• Anti-anxiety medications – Useful if severe anxiety is present, but should be used with caution.
• Antiepileptics & Antipsychotics – Sometimes prescribed for specific cases, especially when SSD coexists with other conditions.

3. Lifestyle and Other Treatments

Besides therapy and medication, daily habits and coping strategies play a key role in managing SSD:

• Regular Visits with a Trusted Doctor

  • Seeing a consistent healthcare provider can help avoid unnecessary tests and medical procedures.
  • Provides reassurance and long-term support.

• Pain & Symptom Management Strategies

  • RICE Technique (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for muscle-related pain.
  • Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation.
  • Physical therapy for improving movement and reducing discomfort.

• Stress Management & Coping Skills

  • Practising mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress.
  • Engaging in regular exercise to boost mood and overall health.
  • Setting realistic goals to maintain a sense of accomplishment.

• Maintaining Social and Daily Activities

  • Staying active and social even if symptoms persist.
  • Engaging in hobbies and activities to shift focus from physical discomfort.

Tips for Managing SSD

✔ Build a strong, trusting relationship with your doctor for reassurance and guidance.
✔ Avoid unnecessary medical tests and procedures that may reinforce anxiety.
✔ Stay active and engaged in daily life, even when symptoms are present.
✔ Practice healthy sleep habits and a nutritious diet for overall well-being.

Therapy & Counselling For Somatic Symptom Disorders

Are you experiencing physical symptoms with no clear medical cause? You may be struggling with a Somatic Symptom Disorder. Our therapy program can help. Our team of experts specializes in treating the mind-body connection and helping you manage symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, and more.

With a personalized approach, we’ll work together to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a plan to bring you relief. Take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Book a consultation today and start your journey to healing.