Persistent somatic symptoms
Real, long-lasting physical symptoms with no clear structural explanation. They deserve to be taken seriously and addressed rigorously.
What persistent somatic symptoms is
We speak of persistent somatic symptoms when one or more genuine physical complaints, such as pain, dizziness, palpitations, digestive discomfort or various bodily sensations, continue over time and cause worry and disruption, without a structural explanation that fully accounts for them.
They are not malingering and they are not weakness. They are the expression of a dysregulated mind and body system, which is why they call for an integrative view.
Why the tests come back “normal”
Once the necessary causes have been ruled out, many of these symptoms are explained by the way the brain generates, interprets and amplifies bodily signals, a process strongly shaped by attention, alertness and emotional state, all part of the PNIE system.
The distress of feeling misunderstood, or of endlessly searching for a structural diagnosis, usually adds suffering of its own. Naming the mechanism correctly is often the first relief.
Common symptoms
- Real physical symptoms that persist over time
- Repeated tests with no conclusive findings
- Intense worry about health and about what the symptom means
- An effect on daily life, mood and sleep
- The feeling of not having been taken seriously at previous appointments
How the IDENTA Model approaches it
The integrated medical and psychological assessment matters especially here. It organizes the history, avoids repeating tests that serve no purpose and builds an understandable hypothesis about the condition.
From there we combine psychoeducation, nervous system regulation and evidence-based psychotherapy, with the aim of reducing how much the symptom is amplified and restoring function.
All of it begins with listening, and all of it sits within the IDENTA Model, with clear objectives and follow-up.
What you can expect
- To be taken seriously and to receive a structured explanation of what is happening.
- To stop repeating tests without direction and start a process that has one.
- Tools to reduce the effect the symptom has on your life.
This information is provided for general education. It does not replace an individual medical assessment and is not a diagnosis. If you live with these symptoms, an initial assessment allows your case to be evaluated as a whole.
Frequently asked questions
Are you telling me it is all in my mind?
No. The symptoms are physical and they are real. What we are saying is that brain and body form one integrated system, and that this system can become dysregulated and amplify real signals. Understanding that is what makes it treatable.
Do I need more tests?
Not necessarily. Part of the value of the integrated assessment is deciding, on clinical grounds, what is genuinely needed and avoiding repeat investigations that add nothing and often increase anxiety.
Can this be resolved?
Many people improve significantly once the symptom is understood and addressed in a structured way. The goal is to recover function and quality of life.
Start with an initial assessment
Every process at IDENTA begins with listening. Request an assessment and get a structured opinion on your case.