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Table 1 The diagnostic criteria for Somatic Symptom Disorder noted in DSM 5

From: Efficacy of physiotherapy treatments in children and adolescents with somatic symptom disorder and other related disorders: systematic review of the literature

A. One or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or result in significant disruption of daily life

B. Excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviours related to the somatic symptoms or associated health concerns as manifested by at least one of the following:

Disproportionate and persistent thoughts about the seriousness of one’s symptoms.

Persistently high level of anxiety about health or symptoms.

Excessive time and energy devoted to these symptoms or health concerns.

C. Although any somatic symptom may not be present continuously, the state of being symptomatic is persistent (typically more than 6 months).

Specify if:

  With predominant pain (previously pain disorder): This specifier is for individuals whose somatic symptoms predominantly involve pain.

  Persistent: a persistent course is characterized by severe symptoms, marked impairment, and long duration (more than 6 months).