Definition

The process of experiencing physical symptoms that are caused by mental or emotional issues, rather than a physical illness.

Example

Many people with anxiety may experience somatization, feeling physical pain without any medical cause.

Conversation

I've been feeling really strange lately, almost like my body is reacting to stress.

That sounds tough. Sometimes, our minds can cause somatization of our feelings.

I didn't know that was a thing! It makes sense, though.

Yeah, it’s wild how our mental health can show up in physical ways.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Somatization → It is formed from "soma" (from Greek "σῶμα", meaning body) and "-ization" (meaning the process of making or becoming). The word "somatization" refers to the process of expressing psychological distress through physical symptoms in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'soma' meaning 'body' and '-ization' indicating a process — somatization is the process of turning psychological issues into physical symptoms.

Visually Confused Words