Treating patients with functional somatic symptoms. A treatment guide for use in general practice

Abstract

Patients who experience body symptoms in response to psychosocial stress are a challenge for the general practitioner (GP). This paper is a contribution to the improved treatment of these patients. It presents a specific psychosocial treatment model provided by the GP including the following steps: (a) taking a thorough symptom history, conducting a psychosocial anamnesis and exploring the patient's own perception of the illness, (b) developing alternative perceptions of the illness by understanding the psycho-physiological relationship; and (c) reducing the impact of psychosocial stress. The application of these specific techniques requires a trustful, helping alliance between the doctor and the patient and cooperation with mental health services.