is an interdisciplinary medical field that explores the intricate relationships between social, psychological, and behavioural factors and their impact on bodily processes and human quality of life. It is based on the concept of mind-body unity , where biological and psychological processes are seen as inextricably linked aspects of a single organism. Core Concepts and Models
: Homeostasis is the body's internal equilibrium; allostasis is the process of maintaining that balance through adaptation to stressors. "Allostatic load" refers to the "wear and tear" the body experiences when chronically stressed. Psychosomatic Medicine
Historically, seven diseases were famously classified as the "Chicago Seven" or "Holy Seven": Essential arterial hypertension Duodenal ulcers Nonspecific ulcerative colitis Bronchial asthma Thyrotoxicosis Rheumatoid arthritis Neurodermatitis is an interdisciplinary medical field that explores the
: Modern practice rejects the idea that a disease is caused solely by mental factors (psychogenesis). Instead, it views illnesses as having multiple interacting causes, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Types of Psychosomatic Disorders "Allostatic load" refers to the "wear and tear"
Today, the field covers a broader spectrum, including (physical symptoms without a clear organic cause) and nosogenia (psychological reactions to a physical disease, such as depression following a cancer diagnosis). Common Conditions Influenced by Stress
: The theoretical foundation of modern psychosomatic medicine, proposing that health and illness result from the complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Many chronic conditions are recognized as being significantly influenced or exacerbated by psychological factors: Psychosomatic Disorder: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment