What is conversion disorder?

Conversion disorder is classified as a somatoform disorder, which manifests as a change in sensory or motor function that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition. Individuals with this disorder experience symptoms such as paralysis, tremors, or sensory deficits, but extensive medical evaluations typically reveal no underlying physical cause for these symptoms. This disconnect between the physical manifestation of the symptoms and the absence of a medical explanation underscores the psychological factors at play in conversion disorder. The symptoms are often acute and can arise following psychological stress or trauma, highlighting how emotional distress can be expressed through physical symptoms in certain individuals.

This understanding of conversion disorder emphasizes the importance of recognizing the psychological aspects in mental health and medicine, as well as the intricate connections between mind and body.