1. COVID-19: When It Leaves Us Voiceless and Powerless.
- Author
-
Yee FTL, Rajagopalan A, and Liang DTC
- Subjects
- Adult, Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Conversion Disorder psychology, COVID-19 Vaccines, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 psychology
- Abstract
Conversion disorder-called functional neurological symptom disorder in the DSM-5 -has roots that trace back to antiquity. The term conversion , originating from psychoanalysis, signifies the appearance of physical symptoms as an effort to resolve or convey unconscious and distressing intrapsychic conflicts- "converting" them from manifesting in the mind to manifesting in the body. Despite efforts made in elucidating the neurobiological etiologies of functional neurological symptom disorder, a psychodynamic lens remains indispensable in understanding the patient. This article presents two patients who developed functional neurological symptom disorder, one after a COVID-19 vaccination and one in the context of long COVID. A discussion follows on the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and systemic etiological factors that predispose, precipitate, and perpetuate COVID-related functional neurological symptom disorder. We elaborate on psychodynamic psychological processes and conflicts that may unfold between patients with COVID-related functional neurological symptom disorder and their health care providers. We also share suggestions on how a consultation-liaison psychiatry team may offer support to the primary treating team to facilitate a therapeutic space within which patients with COVID-related functional neurological symptom disorder may recover.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF