What term describes an illness in which the physical symptoms are a result of what is happening in the mind?

The term that accurately describes an illness where physical symptoms stem from mental or emotional factors is psychosomatic. This concept illustrates the intricate connection between the mind and body, highlighting how psychological stress, anxiety, or even depression can manifest in physical symptoms. For instance, an individual experiencing high levels of stress may develop headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain, even though there may be no underlying physical cause. Understanding psychosomatic conditions is crucial in health science, as it emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment that addresses both mental and physical health.

Other terms like neurological refer to disorders related to the nervous system, somatic typically pertains to the body as distinct from the mind, and psychological focuses on mental processes and behaviors without inherently connecting them to physical symptoms. Each of these terms has specific definitions that do not fully encompass the relationship between mind and body suggested in psychosomatic conditions.