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Conversion disorder is a condition in which a person experiences blindness, paralysis or other neurological symptoms that cannot be explained purely by a physical illness or injury. Symptoms typically appear abruptly following a period of mental or physical strain or psychological conflict.
If we look into psychodynamic theories of psychology, this condition is seen as a conversion reaction. Defense mechanisms are an arbitrary concept that was introduced to explain ways in which all of us deal with stressful situations.
Causes of conversion disorder
It's believed that conversion disorder results from the body's response to a stressful physical or emotional incident. Several studies have found possible brain alterations that could be connected to the disorder's symptoms.
Adults who suffer from it are not purposely creating or fabricating their physical or sensory issues. Although they exist, the issues are not brought on by underlying medical conditions; rather, they represent limitations in the body's regular physiological processes.
It's sometimes, but not always, caused by inadequately articulated distress, which is relieved by the presence of the symptoms. However, the causes are still under speculation.
Stress, physical or psychologically distressing events may set off the symptoms, but that's not always the case. If a person has a mobility disorder, mental health issues or neurological ailments, they may be more likely to develop the condition.
Also, individuals are more vulnerable if a family member suffers from a functional neurological illness, if they were physically or sexually abused as children or if they have encountered any other traumatic events. Women also have a two to three times higher chance of receiving the diagnosis.
Symptoms of conversion disorder
A person must suffer changed motor function or a change in their sensations to be diagnosed with conversion disorder.
Symptoms can cause distress or impairment in a person's employment, relationships or other aspects of life, and they cannot be linked to any medical condition or other mental disorder. Over the last ten years, conversion disorder has gotten simpler to diagnose due to EEG technology and other cognitive tests.
The DSM-5 says that it can be identified by symptoms like weakness or paralysis, aberrant movement, symptoms of swallowing or speaking, attacks or seizures, anesthesia or sensory loss or specific sensory abnormalities. It can either manifest as a chronic condition or an acute episode.
A neurologist or mental health specialist is usually the one to make the diagnosis. To ascertain whether you meet the diagnostic criteria, they can perform both a physical and psychological assessment.
Treatment of conversion disorder
We have come a long way in our understanding and treatment of mental health disorders.
Here are some effective treatment methods for this disorder:
1) Symptom management
Effective treatment addresses the condition as well as any co-occurring disorders the patient may be dealing with. The course of treatment is also based on the individual's particular symptoms. For instance, if the patient has difficulties swallowing or speaking, speech therapy may be beneficial.
If a person experiences movement issues, paralysis or weakness, physical or occupational treatment may be necessary. Behavioral treatments that emphasize stress management and relaxation strategies might also aid in symptom reduction.
2) Therapy
Psychotherapy is also helpful for those with the condition. Depending on any other co-occurring disorders, a different style of psychotherapy may be suggested. Those who use cognitive behavioral therapy can recognize unfavorable or unreasonable thought patterns and improve how they react to difficulties.
Moreover, CBT can aid in improving coping mechanisms for stressors in daily life. A person with a history of trauma may also benefit from various forms of therapy. Family relationships that cause stress and exacerbate conversion disorder symptoms may be addressed through family therapy.
3) Hypnosis
Additionally, effective at easing conversion disorder symptoms are hypnosis and self-hypnosis. To divert attention from the symptoms and stop or slow them down, this sort of treatment may involve focusing on a pleasant image.
However, it's crucial that these methods be applied by a specialist who works with people who have conversion disorder. Regular self-hypnosis sessions are usually necessary for the technique to be effective.
4) Medications
Medications used in pharmacotherapy for conversion disorder typically address the symptoms of co-occurring disorders. According to research, drugs like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), beta-blockers, analgesics and benzodiazepines can be beneficial.
Anti-epileptic medications are normally only utilized when they also aid in treating the co-occurring diagnosis. Alternative therapies have received less research, so make sure to discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your doctor.
When treating disorders, it's critical that treatment providers communicate with one another. To ensure that they are in agreement with the origin and course of action for diverse symptoms, neurologists, psychiatrists and other professionals should regularly interact.
If not treated early on, conversion disorder can be exceedingly expensive for the patient and detrimental to them. Consequently, early detection and treatment have the potential to drastically lower suffering and medical expenses.
Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.
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