Survival in somatoform disorders

Feeling sick or ill is a worthy investment. It is like a defence and a protective mechanism a blessing in disguise. Studies show that the standardised mortality rates for somatoform disorders are much lower than mortality rates for most psychiatric disorders. The health concern and anxiety keeps such patients under constant medical vigil. Though at a heavy cost of repeated investigations and burden on healthcare systems, those who feel sick despite reassurances will likely outlive others! As Kay (Diane Keaton) tells the ailing Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) in The Godfather Part III, ‘The sicker you are the wiser you get’!