Somatization

When emotional distress is expressed through the body in the form of real physical symptoms, without an examination fully explaining their origin, it is called somatization.

How it presents: It can translate into aches, fatigue, digestive discomfort, dizziness, or other physical sensations that cause concern and tend to persist over time. These symptoms are genuine, even though they do not always have a clear organic cause.

Why it happens: Stress, anxiety, and other emotional tensions can influence how the body perceives and processes internal signals, giving rise to genuine discomfort.

Which professionals help? The general practitioner usually first rules out physical causes, and the psychiatrist provides insight into the emotional component that accompanies the condition. If you have recurring bodily discomfort that affects your day-to-day life, discussing it with a professional can open the way to understanding and addressing it better.