Psychosomatic disorders, which involve both psychological and physiological aspects of health, are often referred to as somatic diseases. The onset, progression, and treatment efficacy of these disorders are closely related to emotional and behavioral disorders induced by psychological factors. In children, these disorders often manifest as peptic ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, migraines, anorexia nervosa, asthma, and hypertension. Fluctuations in emotions are often key or partial triggers behind these conditions. Daily emotional fluctuations can affect the autonomic nervous system, thereby disrupting the normal physiological functions of specific organs or systems. This type of damage is different from simple behavioral abnormalities or symptoms of neurasthenia.
Among the causes of psychosomatic disorders, psychological factors play a significant role, especially prolonged stress, such as exam pressure, unconscious psychological impacts, perceived threats, intimidation, or experiences of hostility, all of which are important external stimuli that trigger the diseases. Research has confirmed that external stimuli and accompanying psychological activities, through the collaboration of the central nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system, can convert psychological influences into physiological changes, thereby damaging bodily tissues. Under psychological burden, individuals first enter an emotional response phase, such as anxiety, anger, or sadness; these emotions are accompanied by changes in the autonomic nervous system, which promote increased secretion of adrenaline, corticosteroids, and antidiuretic hormones, leading to a series of physiological adjustments, including increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, elevated blood pressure, rapid breathing, slowed digestion, and accelerated metabolism. This marks the body’s entry into a state of stress, preparing it to comprehensively cope with environmental challenges and exhibiting positive significance for environmental adaptation. However, if emotions cannot be appropriately released, or if the reaction is too strong or prolonged, autonomic nervous regulation may become imbalanced, leading to damage to the internal organs and potentially contributing to the formation of new illnesses.
