Final answer:
A psychosomatic disorder involves physical symptoms influenced by psychological factors. Stress can exacerbate conditions like cardiovascular disorders and affect the immune system. PTSD is an example that demonstrates the psychological and physical symptom nexus.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is a Psychosomatic Disorder?
A psychosomatic disorder refers to a condition where psychological factors contribute to physical symptoms. These physical ailments are genuine but are either caused or exacerbated by mental, emotional, or psychological factors. A primary example of this is cardiovascular disorders, where stress can lead to or worsen heart disease, which is a significant cause of death globally. The immune system is another critical pathway influenced by psychological stress, affecting overall health.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an example of a condition that, while classified as a psychological disorder, exhibits the interconnection between psychological trauma and potential physical symptoms, highlighting the overlap in psychosomatic and psychological disorders.