The Role of the Nervous System in the Development of Psychosomatic Diseases

Abstract

Psychosomatic diseases arise from complex interactions between psychological and physiological factors, with the nervous system serving as a central mediator of these processes. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this theoretical study examines the neural, endocrine, and immune mechanisms through which psychological stress may contribute to physical symptoms and disease. The findings indicate that the central nervous system processes emotional experiences and coordinates stress responses, while the autonomic nervous system regulates changes in cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and other bodily functions. Chronic stress may disrupt hormonal regulation, weaken immune responses, and increase vulnerability to a range of physical health problems. Psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety may also be accompanied by pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and other somatic symptoms. In addition, posttraumatic stress disorders may be associated with functional and structural changes in neural systems involved in stress regulation. The study concludes that psychosomatic diseases should be assessed and treated through integrated approaches that address psychological, neurological, endocrine, immune, and physical dimensions.