Psychogenic: The Intersection of Mental Health and Physical Health
Mental health is a facet of our lives that impacts all aspects of our physical and emotional wellbeing. Mental health issues can arise from a variety of sources, including biological, environmental, and psychological. One of the most common, yet least discussed, forms of mental health issues is psychogenic. Psychogenic is an umbrella term for disorders, symptoms, and conditions that are caused or exacerbated by psychological or emotional distress. This article will provide an overview of psychogenic, including its potential causes, associated symptoms, and treatment options.
Psychogenic is often the result of unresolved psychological or emotional issues. It can manifest in physical symptoms that range from mild to severe. These symptoms can include headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, and a general feeling of unease. People may also experience changes in behavior, such as irritability, sadness, or feelings of isolation. Other symptoms include difficulty concentrating, insomnia, changes in appetite, and changes in sexual desire.
The exact cause of psychogenic is unknown. It is believed to be a result of psychological and emotional distress that has been left unresolved. This distress can be caused by a variety of things, including traumatic events, family issues, stress, and even physical illnesses. Other potential causes include genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Treating psychogenic can be a challenge. It often requires a combination of strategies, including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Psychotherapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping people understand and process their emotions. It can be used to identify any underlying psychological or emotional issues that may be contributing to the psychogenic symptoms. Medications, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medications, can also help to reduce symptoms.
Finally, lifestyle modifications can help to reduce the impact of psychogenic. This can include getting enough sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, developing healthy eating habits, and managing stress. It is also important to seek help if symptoms become severe or unmanageable.
In conclusion, psychogenic is an umbrella term for disorders, symptoms, and conditions that are caused or exacerbated by psychological or emotional distress. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be a result of unresolved psychological or emotional issues. Treatment for psychogenic often requires a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Henderson, R., & Hulley, S. B. (2020). The intersection of mental health, physical health, and the environment. JAMA, 324(5), 469–470. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.11155
Kooij, J. J. S., Batelaan, N. M., Bockting, C. L. H., & Beekman, A. T. F. (2017). The burden of psychogenic symptoms: An analysis of the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. BMC Psychiatry, 17(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-016-1228-1
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Psychogenic disorders. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psychogenic-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20375253