Community-Based Care - Somatoform Disorders

COMMUNITY-BASED CARE

Health care professionals often encounter clients with somatoform disorders in clinics, physicians’ offices, or set-tings other than those related to mental health. Building a trusting relationship with the client, providing empathy and support, and being sensitive to rather than dismissive of complaints are skills that the nurse can use in any set-ting where clients are seeking assistance. Making appro-priate referrals such as to a pain clinic for clients with pain disorder or providing information about support groups in the community may be helpful. Encouraging clients to find pleasurable activities or hobbies may help to meet their needs for attention and security, thus diminishing the psychologic needs for somatic symptoms.