In Somatic Symptom Disorder, what is a hallmark symptom that individuals typically exhibit?

In Somatic Symptom Disorder, a hallmark symptom is the persistent high level of anxiety about health. Individuals with this disorder often become excessively preoccupied with their physical symptoms, which may be minor or even medically unexplained. This intense focus can result in significant distress and impairment in their daily functioning. The level of anxiety experienced is disproportionate to the actual medical condition they may have, leading them to frequently worry about their health status, potential diseases, or the seriousness of their symptoms.

This preoccupation can drive behaviors such as frequent medical visits or seeking unnecessary tests, which the individual believes are essential to address their health anxiety. Understanding this characteristic helps clarify the psychological component of Somatic Symptom Disorder, emphasizing that the anxiety about health is central to the diagnosis rather than the physical symptoms themselves.