CBT for medically unexplained symptoms
Most physical complaints can be diagnosed with a medical condition. However, it is also common for a person to have a persistent physical ailment which is a medically unexplainable, even after being examined by a doctor.
Not having a diagnosis or an explanation for their symptoms can cause a person distress and anxiety. It’s important to remember that for the sufferer these symptoms are very real and can have a negative impact on their life.
Symptoms can vary greatly; some sufferers experience heart palpitations or tiredness and others can have regular headaches or digestive issues. However, a large majority of people with medically unexplained symptoms will also have anxiety or depression issues as well.
However, even though doctors are unable to diagnose a medical cause for the symptoms, this doesn’t mean that help isn’t available to sufferers.
How CBT can treat medically unexplained symptoms
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based intervention that can help people with medically unexplained symptoms to cope with the stress and anxiety the symptoms can cause.
CBT is founded on the idea that the way we think about the situations can affect the way we feel and behave. If those thoughts are negative, or centred on a particular symptom that is causing worry, then a person can become trapped in a cycle of anxiety that can make the sufferer feel physically ill and diminish their confidence and ability to live a fulfilling life.
By working with a qualified and experienced CBT therapist, a client can learn how to identify and adapt their thinking and develop the coping strategies for managing their symptoms in more productive way.
Gradually, their stress levels will begin to reduce, and symptoms will improve and therefore managed in a more positive manner.
Improving the mental well-being of sufferers will provide them with the emotional resilience to deal with their physical symptoms and lead to a happier and less anxious life.
Speak to our experienced therapists
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Interventions have successfully helped hundreds of clients understand the intricacies of their medically unexplained symptoms. The cognitive approach can greatly improve a person’s outlook on life and open the door to a brighter, symptom-free and more confident future.
