In the past, when talking about psychiatric problems, people always identified with madness. This stigma is so embedded in society because the flow of information that used to be less related to psychiatric problems and lay people did not know about the role of a psychiatrist, including even medical colleagues.
A psychiatrist or also known as a psychiatrist is a doctor who specializes in psychiatry. That is why, in view of today's modern medicine, where physical health is inseparable from mental health, the role of a psychiatrist is increasingly being felt in the world of everyday medicine. The background of a psychiatrist who is a doctor makes him understand more about psychological problems related to medical problems and vice versa.
Gastric Disorders and Their Relation to a Person's Psyche
In daily practice, stomach problems are a common problem. Various studies say that as many as 60% of cases of gastric disorders, also known as dyspepsia, are related to functional dyspepsia. This means that the uncomfortable stomach symptoms are not based on any organ abnormalities in the digestive system. Basic and supporting examinations such as ultrasound or gastroscopy (endoscopy and colonoscopy) did not find any abnormalities. Things like this in most cases are influenced by one's diet, diet and also don't forget the stress factor.
Stress itself is closely related to gastric problems because the relationship between the brain and stomach is facilitated by its own nervous system called the enteric nervous system which is inseparable from the autonomic nervous system in our body. In the human body there is the autonomic nervous system which is related to its function in carrying out the functions of organs that move automatically such as the heart, stomach, lungs and hormonal system. Associated with the stomach, the autonomic nervous system is related to a person's stress level. The more stressed a person is, the more active the autonomic nervous system is and when experiencing fatigue it can cause physical disturbances. It's no wonder that sudden (acute) or prolonged (chronic) stress can cause stomach upset or long-lasting dyspepsia, and it doesn't go well even though stomach medications have been given.
The role of the psychiatrist in this case is to overcome this excessive autonomic nervous system condition either through medication (psychopharmacology) or with psychotherapy (psychological means according to the patient's needs). In many studies it is said that the application of synergistic therapy between psychiatrists and digestive specialists provides more satisfying therapeutic results for patients.
Don't hesitate, the sooner the better it is treated
When it comes to going to a psychiatrist, many people are doubtful and afraid. Fear of being called "crazy" or fear of drug addiction. Patients often identify going to a psychiatrist as unnecessary and frightening. Even though psychiatrists with their competence can help patients who experience functional physical symptoms such as stomach disorders above which are related to stress. Sometimes it is also found that patients with chronic medical problems such as post-stroke or chronic diabetes will affect their mental health. The role of the psychiatrist here is also very necessary.
The problem of drug dependence is actually because patients are afraid to use psychiatric drugs that are considered "drugs" even though this is not true. The use of psychotropic drugs is sometimes necessary at the beginning of therapy, but don't be afraid that the psychiatrist's instructions will give you the appropriate dosage and prevent dependence. In some conditions, patients with strong genetic factors or a lack of adaptability require long-term treatment. This is because repairing the central nervous system is not easy.
The sooner you get help, the patient's case will usually be easier to control and of course it will have a better life impact for the patient. So don't hesitate if you experience stomach-related psychosomatic conditions as mentioned above. Comprehensive treatment will improve the patient's quality of life.
Article written by dr. Andri, Sp.KJ, FAPM (Psychiatric Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).