Body & Physical Symptoms
Somatic Symptom Disorder
Physical symptoms that are real and distressing, alongside intense worry and attention that make them worse.
What it can feel like
- Persistent pain, fatigue or digestive symptoms
- Constant focus on the body
- High anxiety about what the symptoms mean
- Frequent medical appointments with little relief
- Activity reduced to avoid symptoms
Not everyone has every symptom, and you do not need a label to deserve support.
Things that help
01
Aim for functioning, not symptom removal
Recovery is measured in what you can do again, not in a symptom reaching zero.
02
Keep one consistent clinician
A single trusted relationship, with scheduled reviews, reduces the cycle of new appointments.
03
Return to activity gradually
Gentle, paced movement rebuilds tolerance. Rest as the main strategy tends to make symptoms louder over time.
Want to actually do these? Save them to your practices and tick them off as you go.
Add to my practicesWhen to reach for more support
Ask your GP about CBT for persistent physical symptoms. The symptoms are real, and the goal is living well alongside them.