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Psychosomatic illness refers to physical symptoms that are either created or worsened by psychic influences. Which conditions are thought to be attributed to the connection between mind and body? Select all that apply.

A) Diabetes
B) Arthritis
C) Hypertension
D) Headache
E) Colitis

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Conditions considered psychosomatic, connected to both psychological and physiological factors, include hypertension (C) and headaches (D), which can be exacerbated by stress.

Step-by-step explanation:

Psychosomatic illnesses refer to physical conditions that are influenced or exacerbated by psychological factors. Conditions thought to be attributed to the connection between mind and body include hypertension (C), which is frequently associated with stress and can be considered a psychophysiological disorder. Similarly, headaches (D), often tied to tension and stress, are another common psychosomatic condition. While not listed in the examples provided, it's recognized that mental states can play a role in exacerbating colitis (E), an inflammatory bowel disease. In contrast, diabetes (A) and arthritis (B) are not traditionally classified as psychosomatic disorders, as they are primarily metabolic and autoimmune diseases, respectively, with less direct links to psychological states.

Many psychosomatic symptoms can also be triggered by the immune system's response to stress or by the activation of stress responses over prolonged periods. This is exemplified by conditions such as hypertension and certain types of headaches. The examples listed emphasize the profound impact psychological stress can have on physical well-being, potentially leading to the onset or exacerbation of certain illnesses.

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