Introduction:
Have you ever experienced a sudden inability to walk, speak, or move a limb—but all medical tests come back normal? Or perhaps a loved one suddenly faints, trembles, or loses sensation without any known cause? These frightening episodes can feel like a medical emergency, yet often, the root cause lies not in the body, but in the mind.
Conversion Disorder, also known historically as Hysteria, is a psychological condition where emotional distress is unconsciously converted into physical symptoms. It’s not “faking” or “attention-seeking”—it’s a very real and distressing mental health condition. At Dr. Mitali Soni Loya’s Psychiatry & De-addiction Clinic in Bhopal, we help individuals and families understand and heal from these symptoms through a compassionate, evidence-based approach.
Symptoms to Watch for Conversion Disorder / Hysteria:
The symptoms of Conversion Disorder can mimic neurological or medical emergencies but often defy physical explanation. Key signs include:
- Sudden paralysis of arms, legs, or facial muscles
- Loss of voice (aphonia) or difficulty swallowing (globus sensation)
- Seizure-like episodes without EEG abnormalities
- Temporary blindness or double vision
- Fainting spells without cardiovascular causes
- Unexplained gait abnormalities or tremors
- Sudden inability to speak, write, or comprehend language
- Numbness, tingling, or unexplained pain in various parts of the body
- Emotional outbursts, dissociation, or blank stares during episodes
These symptoms can be alarming for both the patient and their family, often leading to repeated ER visits. But if medical evaluations are inconclusive, it’s time to consider a psychiatric evaluation.
Common Causes of Conversion Disorder / Hysteria:
Conversion Disorder is rooted in deep psychological distress. Some of the most common contributors include:
Emotional Triggers
- Repressed trauma or unresolved grief
- Acute stress from relationships, exams, or work pressures
- Emotional conflict between desires and responsibilities
- Suppressed fear, guilt, or shame
Psychological and Personality Factors
- High levels of suggestibility or emotional sensitivity
- History of emotional neglect or childhood abuse
- Perfectionism or a strong desire to “appear strong”
- Inability to express anger or sadness verbally
Environmental and Social Stressors
- Overburdened caregiving roles
- Social pressure to perform or meet family expectations
- Emotional invalidation or being told to "stay strong" despite inner pain
Treatment Process of Conversion Disorder / Hysteria:
Step 1: Psychiatric Assessment and Rule-Out
We begin by reviewing your medical history, diagnostic reports, and symptom timeline. This helps rule out physical causes while gently introducing the possibility of a mind-body link.
Result: Clarity about the condition and reduced fear of serious illness
Best suited for: Individuals experiencing sudden, unexplained physical symptoms
Step 2: Psychoeducation and Family Counseling
Once the diagnosis is made, we educate both the patient and family about the nature of Conversion Disorder. Knowing that “it’s real, but psychological” helps remove stigma and fear.
Result: Increased emotional support at home and reduced medical anxiety
Best suited for: Patients with resistant symptoms or family conflicts
Step 3: Trauma-Focused or Supportive Psychotherapy
Through guided talk therapy, we help identify underlying emotional pain, suppressed memories, or internal conflicts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or trauma-informed therapy may be used.
Result: Emotional release, symptom reduction, and improved emotional expression
Best suited for: Individuals with past trauma, emotional numbness, or repressed anger
Step 4: Relaxation Training and Behavioral Therapy
Techniques like grounding exercises, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation are introduced to help manage the onset of physical symptoms.
Result: Better symptom control and reduced recurrence
Best suited for: Patients with frequent fainting, tremors, or panic-like symptoms
What to Expect Before and After Treatment:
Before Treatment
Living with Conversion Disorder can be terrifying. Many patients undergo repeated medical tests, feel misunderstood, and carry guilt for "not getting better." Family frustration and stigma may worsen emotional distress.
After Treatment Begins
Once emotional causes are acknowledged and addressed, symptoms often begin to fade. Patients feel less fear, more control, and begin expressing feelings verbally rather than somatically. Relationships improve, and the need for emergency visits reduces drastically. Over time, life feels livable again—with less confusion and more clarity.
Benefits of Treatment:
Our comprehensive treatment approach offers:
- Relief from confusing and distressing physical symptoms
- Fewer emergency room visits and hospitalizations
- Increased awareness of emotional triggers and coping mechanisms
- Restored confidence in one’s body and mind
- Improved relationships through better emotional communication
- Prevention of future episodes through long-term therapy and support
- Sense of empowerment and clarity over one’s condition
Lifestyle Tips for Conversion Disorder / Hysteria:
- Build emotional vocabulary – Practice naming your emotions daily
- Create safe emotional outlets – Journaling, painting, or talking to someone trusted
- Avoid overexertion – Learn to pace your physical and emotional energy
- Practice relaxation techniques – Deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness
- Set boundaries – Don’t overcommit out of guilt or fear of judgment
- Stay away from self-diagnosis online – It fuels fear and misinterpretation
- Seek validation – Remind yourself that your experience is real and valid
These simple adjustments, when combined with therapy, can significantly reduce recurrence and enhance recovery.
What Makes Our Approach Different?
At Dr. Mitali Soni Loya’s clinic, we treat Conversion Disorder with utmost empathy—understanding that the symptoms may be physical, but the roots are emotional. We avoid judgment, medical gaslighting, or blame. Our approach includes family involvement, deep listening, and tailored therapy—not rushed prescriptions or assumptions.
Journey with Dr. Mitali Soni Loya’s Clinic:
Consultation
Your journey begins with a calm, private session where Dr. Mitali listens deeply—without rushing, interrupting, or invalidating your symptoms. All physical and emotional concerns are taken seriously.
Pre-preparation
We provide transparent explanations about the diagnosis, involve family where appropriate, and answer all your doubts about mind-body symptoms. You leave feeling informed, not dismissed.
Treatment
With a blend of psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and ongoing emotional support, we help untangle the psychological roots of your symptoms—at your pace. Regular check-ins ensure that the treatment evolves with your needs.
Why choose us?
- A stigma-free space where you feel understood, not judged
- Specialized care in rare and misunderstood conditions like hysteria
- Personalized therapy and treatment without over-reliance on medication
- Honest guidance for both patients and families
- Trusted by hundreds of families across Bhopal for psychiatric care
Book Your Appointment with Dr. Mitali:
If you or a loved one is facing unexplained physical symptoms, don’t suffer in silence. Real help is available. Reach out for a compassionate consultation at our clinic.
📞 +91 88174 75079
📍 10 Ramanand Nagar, Near Lalghati Square, Bhopal, M.P. – 462023
FAQs
Q. Is Conversion Disorder the same as faking an illness?
No. The symptoms are real and involuntary. The person is not “pretending” but unconsciously reacting to emotional distress.
Q. Can Conversion Disorder be cured?
Yes, with therapy, education, and emotional support, symptoms can be reduced significantly or disappear altogether.
Q. How long does treatment usually take?
It depends on the severity and the emotional factors involved. Some show improvement within weeks, while others need longer-term support.
Q. Will I need to take medicines?
Medicines are not always required. In some cases, mild anti-anxiety or antidepressants may help—but therapy is the mainstay.
Q. Can children or teens have Conversion Disorder?
Yes, it can occur in all age groups. Children may show academic or behavioral changes alongside physical symptoms.