Somatic Symptom Disorder vs Conversion Disorder in Teens: Similarities & Differences
If you’ve ever felt butterflies in your stomach or muscles tightening with anger, you’ve experienced a somatic symptom. Most of the time, somatic symptoms are harmless and pass on their own.
However, with somatic symptom disorder (SSD) and conversion disorder, also called “functional neurological symptom disorder” (FNSD), somatic symptoms can cause significant distress and disruptions in daily functioning. Both of these conditions are physical symptom disorders teenagers can experience without abnormal results in a medical evaluation.
According to research, 25% of the population under 18 years old complain of one or more somatic symptoms weekly. Additionally, around 10% of all children who visit the pediatrician for any reason have physical symptoms that cannot be attributed to any recognizable disease.1
Based on these figures, it’s clear that many teens might manifest mental health issues in physical ways. However, somatic symptom disorder vs conversion disorder in teens are often confused with each other, sometimes leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
A mental health professional can help families better understand physical symptoms and whether they’re related to mental health issues, reducing frustration for all involved. This page could also work as a useful guide for understanding somatic symptom disorder vs conversion disorder by exploring:
- What somatic symptom disorder in teens is
- What conversion disorder looks like in adolescents
- How the two conditions are similar and different
- What diagnoses and treatments involve
- How Mission Prep supports teens and families facing SSD or conversion disorder
Somatic Symptom Disorder vs Conversion Disorder in Teens – What’s the Difference?
What Is Somatic Symptom Disorder?
Somatic symptom disorder, sometimes shortened to SSD, is defined as subjective reports of one or more somatic symptoms like pain, headaches, or muscle tension. The considerable attention, time, energy, and thoughts that the teen or family devote to dealing with these symptoms tend to cause impairments in personal and social life.3 As a result, SSD could be described as physical complaints that take center stage in a teen’s daily life. Further, a teen might have stomachaches or unexplained fatigue without a clear medical cause. It’s often this lack of definitive cause which can make SSD so emotionally heavy. Worry, preoccupation, and fear about where these symptoms come from and what they might mean for health may become overwhelming. Even though there may be no clear medical cause, these symptoms are very well – as is the distress that surrounds them.What Is Conversion Disorder?
Conversion disorder, or FNSD, usually looks different from SSD. Research shows that conversion disorder is when someone has problems with movement or senses (like weakness, tremors, numbness, or vision changes). However, medical tests don’t find a neurological or medical cause that explains these issues.4 Symptoms can also show up in uncommon and bizarre ways that might overwhelm clinicians, family members, or caregivers. Instead of chronic physical complaints, teens might suddenly lose the ability to move part of their body, experience non-epileptic seizures, or temporarily lose hearing or vision. These symptoms seem neurological, but do not match findings on tests like MRIs or EEGs. Understandably, sudden and dramatic issues such as these can be highly alarming for teens and their families. When thinking about the difference between SSD and conversion disorder adolescents might face, the contrast lies between persistent health-related worry in SSD and abrupt functional changes in conversion disorder. Both require real care, but the type of care depends on identifying which disorder is present. The following information takes a closer look at the differences between somatic symptom disorder vs coversion disorder.Telltale Signs: Distinguishing SSD and Conversion Disorder Youth Symptoms
Teens with SSD or conversion disorder typically live with distressing symptoms, but there are important differences in how the signs of each appear. Understanding these telltale signs can help parents, teachers, and even doctors begin distinguishing SSD and conversion disorder youth cases with more clarity. As a result, effective treatment which can ease symptoms can be started.
Let’s take a look at the symptoms of each to boost understanding of the differences.
SSD Symptoms
Somatic symptom disorder often shows up as repeated complaints about pain or discomfort. For example, a teen might frequently visit the nurse’s office, miss classes, or appear worried about illnesses despite reassurances. They might also show decreased engagement in activities or socially isolate themselves. Plus, their symptoms might be wide-ranging and connected to heightened anxiety about health.
Findings emphasize that SSD symptoms can occur in any organ system, with abdominal pain, headache, musculoskeletal pain, and fatigue being the most commonly reported in children and adolescents.5 This is because, like adults, teens can involuntarily express their stress through physical symptoms rather than emotions or thoughts.
For instance, parents may hear their child describe constant fear that something is physically wrong with them, even when medical results are normal. However, the teen may not be aware of the underlying stressful or emotional cause of their physical symptoms.
Additionally, SSD symptoms can look different for each teen, and it’s not uncommon to have multiple symptoms that change or worsen over time, come and go, or remain constant.
Conversion Disorder Symptoms
Conversion disorder tends to have more sudden, striking presentations in comparison to SSD. For example, the signs of conversion disorder in teens can include temporary paralysis, tremors, or fainting spells. A teen might also lose the ability to speak clearly, walk steadily, or see properly. Other common presenting features might include persistent pain, headaches, unrelenting fatigue, and pseudoseizures.
These changes often arrive after emotional stress, though this connection is not always initially obvious. Plus, research shows that conversion disorder symptoms commonly occur in the 10-15-year age bracket, and the condition is roughly twice as common in girls as it is in boys.6
As both SSD and conversion disorder fall under physical symptom disorders that teenagers may experience, their symptoms are sometimes misunderstood as “exaggeration” or “faking.” Yet the truth is that the symptoms of neither are “made up.” Instead, the body may be expressing emotional strain in physical ways, leaving the teen caught between distress and disbelief.
How to Get a Teen Diagnosis for SSD or Conversation Disorder
For families, one of the hardest parts of experiencing a physical symptom disorder is reaching a clear diagnosis. A teen diagnosis of SSD or conversion disorder is not quick or simple – all potential medical causes must be ruled out first.
We cover how the SSD and conversion disorder diagnostic processes work next.
Diagnosing SSD
For SSD, diagnosis is based on the combination of ongoing symptoms and the level of anxiety or preoccupation about them. In fact, the concerns about health are considered as significant as physical symptoms.
Initial evaluation typically includes collecting an extensive history (including discussions with family members) and a thorough physical examination. Further evaluation involving laboratory testing or imaging to determine whether a general medical disorder is the cause of the symptoms may also take place.
Once a medical disorder potentially associated with symptoms has been ruled out or a somatic disorder has been identified, tests to evaluate symptoms should not be repeated. Patients are rarely reassured by negative test results. In fact, they may even interpret continued testing as confirmation that a physician believes that something is physically wrong.
Because, like everyone else, patients with somatic symptom disorder may subsequently develop a medical disorder, appropriate examinations and tests should be done when symptoms change or new ones develop.
To get to an SSD diagnosis, the following must be present:7
- One or more distressing somatic symptoms that result in daily life disruption
- Excessive feelings, thoughts, or behaviors related to symptom’s seriousness
- A persistently high level of anxiety about health or symptoms, and excessive time and energy devoted to these symptoms or health concerns
- Symptoms that last more than six months
Diagnosing Conversion Disorder
For conversion disorder, diagnosis typically focuses on neurological-like symptoms that appear suddenly, with no medical explanation. In other words, a diagnosis for this disorder is usually based on clinical findings showing no clear evidence of recognized neurological diseases causing issues.
According to the DSM-5TR, the diagnostic criteria for FSND include:.8
- One or more symptoms of involuntary sensory or motor function
- Evidence from clinical findings showing incompatibility between symptoms and recognized medical or neurological conditions
- No other mental or medical disorders providing a better explanation of symptoms
- The symptoms result in significant impairment or distress in social, academic, or other important areas of daily life
Evaluations may involve multiple specialists, including:
- Pediatricians
- Neurologists
- Psychologists
A specialist who’s trained to diagnose brain and nerve problems may look at exam results in the context of the symptoms and history to figure out what they might mean. However, such mental health diagnoses for teens can be lengthy because professionals want to be certain they’re not overlooking a potential medical problem.
Testing often involves gathering a full history of when symptoms began, what could trigger them, and their impacts. Professionals might also look for mismatches in examinations. For example, a limb might seem weak in one test but work normally in another. This mismatch might show how findings don’t fit a typical medical or neurological condition.
Various examination pitfalls could lead to a somatic disorder misdiagnosis in teens. These may include failing to consider the comorbidity of other conditions, relying on unusual clinical features, basing a diagnosis on recent stress, and misinterpreting abnormal results.9
Therefore, families should expect a thorough process when diagnosing either SSD or conversion disorder. While it might feel frustrating and tiring, an accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
Therapy Approaches Somatic vs Conversion Disorder in Teens
Once a diagnosis is in place, treatment for these conditions can begin. However, the therapy approaches that somatic vs conversion disorder in adolescents receive often look different depending on the condition. A mental health professional can talk you through the most suitable options based on your teen’s symptoms and circumstances.
SSD and conversion disorder treatments may include evidence-based approaches such as the following:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Studies show that a cognitive-behavioral program can help kids and teens with ongoing physical symptoms feel and function better. It may also cut down on unnecessary, invasive, and expensive tests or treatments that don’t help.10
CBT works for somatic symptom disorders by helping teens recognize how their thoughts and feelings affect their perception of symptoms. As a result of shifting anxious thought patterns, many teens experience real improvements in physical comfort.
For conversion disorder, therapy may combine CBT with physical, occupational, or mind-body therapy. For instance, teens might work with a therapist to gradually regaining movement or speech. These sessions help build confidence that the body can function normally again.
Family Therapy
Family therapy may also be included in treatment for physical symptoms disorders so parents can learn how to respond in supportive ways without unintentionally reinforcing health fears.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is often an important element in treatment, as it teaches teens how their body and mind interact. By understanding adolescent psychosomatic conditions, they may learn that their symptoms are not a weakness but a sign that stress is showing up physically. This insight could empower them to use therapy skills with greater confidence.
Medication
Medication is not always necessary, but may be considered if severe depression or anxiety is present. By helping get symptoms under control, they teen may therefore be more receptive to psychotherapy.
What matters most in treatment for SSD and conversion disorder is that it addresses both the physical complaints and the emotional distress behind them. The goal is to help the teen cope and return to daily activities while also assisting them in feeling safe in their own body.
How Mission Prep Can Help with SSD and Conversion Disorder in Teens
Families dealing with somatic disorders do not, and should not, have to go through the process alone. At Mission Prep, we understand the confusion that often comes with somatic symptom disorder vs conversion disorder in teens. Our clinicians are experienced in helping families work through uncertainty and find treatment that fits a teen’s specific needs.
We provide comprehensive evaluations to reduce the risk of somatic disorder misdiagnosis that teens often face. Our approach includes working with the teen and their family to build understanding, reduce fear, and develop daily routines that support recovery.
Whether through outpatient sessions, family therapy, or residential support, our priority is helping teens regain a sense of stability and hope. Families leave with more tools, less fear, and the reassurance that their child’s struggles are understood and treatable. Contact our team today to find out more about treatment options.
- Emergency: Call 911 if your teen faints, has chest pain, or shows signs of suicidal behavior.
- NEDA Helpline: 1-800-931-2237 or text “NEDA” to 741741 for crisis support.
- SAMHSA Treatment Locator: Visit findtreatment.gov for residential and outpatient eating disorder programs near you.10
References
- Díez-Suárez, A., & Hernández-González, C. (2025). Somatization in childhood and adolescence: a guide to facilitate its understanding. Anales de Pediatría (English Edition), 102(2), 503711. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2341287925000237?via%3Dihub#bib0035
- Dimsdale, J. E. (2024, July 2). Overview of Somatization. MSD Manual Professional Edition; MSD Manuals. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/somatic-symptom-and-related-disorders/overview-of-somatization
- Gershfeld-Litvin, A., Hertz-Palmor, N., Shtilerman, A., Rapaport, S., Gothelf, D., & Weisman, H. (2022). The development of somatic symptom disorder in children: Psychological characteristics and psychiatric comorbidity. Journal of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, 63(4), 324–333. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2667296021001877
- Kiliç, Ö., Eser, H. Y., Necef, I., Altunöz, U., Çakmak, Ö. Ö., & Aktaş, C. (2021). How do physicians manage functional neurological symptom disorder and somatic symptom disorder in the emergency department? A vignette study. Noro Psikiyatri Arsivi, 58(4), 261–267. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8665294/#ref1
- Geremek, A., Lindner, C., Jung, M., Calvano, C., & Munz, M. (2024). Prevalence of somatic symptoms and somatoform disorders among a German adolescent psychiatric inpatient sample. Children (Basel, Switzerland), 11(3), 280. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/11/3/280
- Leary, P. M. (2003). Conversion disorder in childhood–diagnosed too late, investigated too much? Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 96(9), 436–438. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC539597/
- Henningsen, P. (2018). Management of somatic symptom disorder. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 20(1), 23–31. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6016049/
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev., pp. 360–364). American Psychiatric Association. https://cpcglobal.org/publications/DSM%205%20TR.pdf
- Bennett, K., Diamond, C., Hoeritzauer, I., Gardiner, P., McWhirter, L., Carson, A., & Stone, J. (2021). A practical review of functional neurological disorder (FND) for the general physician. Clinical Medicine (London, England), 21(1), 28–36. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470211824033682
- Warner, C. M., Colognori, D., Kim, R. E., Reigada, L. C., Klein, R. G., Browner-Elhanan, K. J., Saborsky, A., Petkova, E., Reiss, P., Chhabra, M., McFarlane-Ferreira, Y. B., Phoon, C. K., Pittman, N., & Benkov, K. (2011). Cognitive-behavioral treatment of persistent functional somatic complaints and pediatric anxiety: an initial controlled trial. Depression and Anxiety, 28(7), 551–559. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3128648/
