Somatoform Disorders

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Management of somatoform disorders:

Assessment of patients attitude towards his symptoms, previous investigations, referral to psychiatrist and the behaviors consequent to patient's symptoms

Establishment of a therapeutic alliance with the patient

Behavior modification: involves self-monitoring, graded exercises, relaxation therapy etc.

Psychological treatments: Individual and family counselling, supportive psychotherapy, motivational counseling, cognitive therapy.
Pharmacologic treatment: for anxiety, depression and substance dependance associated with somatoform disorders.
Repeated investigations must be discouraged.
Somatoform disorder is best treated by a single therapist offering regularly scheduled consultations.

Early detection and appropriate treatment of somatoform disorders will prevent high cost of investigations and usage of general health services.