Somatic Symptom & Anxiety Disorders

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) and Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD) involve significant distress about health, though they focus on different aspects.

SSD is characterized by persistent, distressing physical symptoms (e.g., pain, headaches) and overwhelming worry about these sensations. IAD, formerly hypochondria, involves excessive fear of having a serious illness despite few or no symptoms.

Both conditions can impact daily life and well-being, but they are treatable with the right approach.

Signs and Indicators

Common Signs of Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD):

Common Signs of Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD):

Persistent fear of having or developing a serious illness despite reassurance.
Frequent self-checks for signs of illness (e.g., body scanning).
Avoidance of medical appointments out of fear of bad news.
Anxiety triggered by health-related news or stories.

A few facts about Somatic Symptom Disorders

0 %

are affected with Somatic Symptom Disorder

10- 0

The disorder is more prevalent
10-1 female to male ratio

0 %

of individuals show
improvement after treatment

Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Care

At Mind Study Center in Pasadena, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals experiencing somatic symptom and illness anxiety disorders. We understand how these conditions can affect every aspect of life, and our team is here to help you regain control and find relief.

Our Team Approach Includes:

Comprehensive Evaluations:
- Our psychologists and psychiatrists work together to thoroughly assess physical and emotional factors contributing to health concerns, distinguishing between SSD, IAD, or other co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.
Evidence-Based Therapies:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals reframe thought patterns and reduce the impact of health-related anxiety.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Teaches mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies to manage distress about physical sensations or health fears.
Medication Management:
- For individuals with severe distress or co-occurring conditions, our psychiatrists may recommend medications to support emotional well-being alongside therapy.
Mind-Body Integration:
- We focus on the connection between the mind and body, providing tools such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and stress management strategies.

Why Choose Mind Study Center?

Located in Pasadena, Mind Study Center offers compassionate, collaborative care for somatic symptom and illness anxiety disorders.

Experienced Team: Our psychologists and psychiatrists collaborate to deliver holistic and tailored treatment plans.
Personalized Approach: We take time to understand your unique experiences, creating a plan that addresses both physical and emotional well-being.
Supportive Environment: We provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you feel understood and empowered.

To schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation and take the first step

toward personalized care and support.