Psychosomatic Disorders

Psychosomatic disorders — also called somatic symptom and related disorders — involve physical symptoms that are real, distressing, and functionally impairing, but for which no adequate medical explanation can be found. These are not imagined or fabricated; the suffering is genuine. The connection between psychological stress and physical health is well established, and proper psychiatric evaluation can identify the underlying emotional drivers and provide meaningful relief. Dr. Mirza treats psychosomatic disorders in Hamilton, NJ with the same rigor and compassion she applies to any other psychiatric condition.

Somatic Symptom Disorder

Somatic Symptom Disorder (formerly Somatization Disorder) is characterized by one or more persistent physical symptoms — pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal distress, neurological complaints — accompanied by excessive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to those symptoms. Patients often cycle through multiple medical specialists without satisfactory answers, accumulating tests and treatments that do not address the root cause. Psychiatric evaluation identifies the psychological factors amplifying physical distress, and treatment focuses on reducing health anxiety, improving daily function, and addressing any co-occurring depression or anxiety.

Factitious Disorder

Factitious Disorder involves intentionally producing, feigning, or exaggerating physical or psychological symptoms — not for external reward, but to assume the "sick role" and receive medical care and attention. The most severe form, previously known as Munchausen syndrome, can involve repeated hospitalizations and significant self-harm. Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another (formerly Munchausen by Proxy) involves inducing illness in someone under one's care. Psychiatric treatment addresses the deep-seated psychological needs driving the behavior and requires a careful, non-confrontational approach built on therapeutic trust.

Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (Conversion Disorder)

Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder — previously called Conversion Disorder — involves neurological symptoms such as limb weakness or paralysis, non-epileptic seizures, numbness, blindness, or speech difficulties that cannot be explained by neurological disease. These symptoms arise when psychological stress manifests as a neurological disruption. They are involuntary and not consciously produced. Collaborative care between psychiatry and neurology is essential. Dr. Mirza provides the psychiatric component of this care, helping patients understand the mind-body connection and working to address the psychological stressors that underlie the symptoms.