At Trinity Naturopathic, we understand the challenges of somatic symptom and related disorders. These conditions can be emotionally and physically taxing, impacting daily life and overall well-being. Our holistic, individualized approach is designed to support individuals in managing these disorders, focusing on the mind-body connection and empowering clients to achieve a healthier, balanced life.

What Are Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders?

Somatic symptom and related disorders involve the presence of physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical conditions, often accompanied by significant distress or anxiety. These disorders can lead to prolonged medical treatment and interfere with a person's emotional and social functioning. The key is addressing both the physical symptoms and the emotional and psychological aspects that contribute to them.

Somatic Symptom Disorder

What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder?

Somatic Symptom Disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more physical symptoms that are distressing or disruptive to daily life, without a clear or fully explainable medical cause. Individuals with this disorder often experience intense anxiety or worry about their symptoms, leading to frequent medical visits.

Symptoms of Somatic Symptom Disorder:

• Persistent pain or discomfort (e.g., headaches, abdominal pain)

• Frequent visits to healthcare providers for unexplained symptoms

• Excessive worry about the possibility of serious illness

• Difficulty functioning due to physical symptoms and anxiety

• Preoccupation with health concerns

Our Approach to Managing Somatic Symptom Disorder:

At Trinity Naturopathic, we address the complex interplay between the mind and body, incorporating a range of strategies to help individuals manage symptoms:

• Holistic nutritional support to reduce inflammation and balance the body’s systems

• Mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and improve emotional regulation

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns related to symptoms

• Integration of bodywork like massage or acupuncture to alleviate physical tension and discomfort

Illness Anxiety Disorder

What Is Illness Anxiety Disorder?

Illness Anxiety Disorder, formerly known as hypochondriasis, involves excessive worry about having a serious illness despite having little to no symptoms. Individuals often seek medical tests and treatments, yet remain preoccupied with health fears.

Symptoms of Illness Anxiety Disorder:

• Constant worry about having or developing a serious illness

• A tendency to interpret normal bodily sensations as signs of severe illness

• Frequent doctor visits or seeking medical advice without a clear diagnosis

• Distress and avoidance of situations perceived as health risks

• Excessive health-related research or concerns

Our Approach to Managing Illness Anxiety Disorder:

We help clients manage their anxiety and health concerns with a comprehensive approach:

• Nutritional support to ensure balanced blood sugar and stress management

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe irrational health-related thoughts

• Relaxation and stress reduction techniques, including yoga and meditation

• Collaborative care with mental health professionals to address the emotional roots of health anxiety

Conversion Disorder

What Is Conversion Disorder?

Conversion Disorder involves neurological symptoms (e.g., paralysis, blindness, or seizures) that cannot be explained by medical or neurological conditions. These symptoms are often linked to psychological stress or trauma.

Symptoms of Conversion Disorder:

• Sudden loss of vision or blindness

• Paralysis or weakness in limbs

• Seizures or convulsions without a neurological basis

• Difficulty walking or abnormal gait

• Numbness or loss of sensation in parts of the body

Our Approach to Supporting Conversion Disorder:

We adopt a mind-body approach to help individuals with Conversion Disorder, including:

• Therapeutic techniques to explore and process underlying emotional trauma or stress

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation to restore function and mobility

• Nutritional support to optimize brain and nervous system health

• Somatic therapies to help the body release stored tension and trauma