When feelings hurt: Learning how to talk with families about the role of emotions in physical symptoms

Abstract

Abstract Emotions are at the core of all human experiences, but talking about emotions is challenging, particularly in the context of medical encounters focused on somatic symptoms. Transparent, normalizing, and validating communication about the mind-body connection opens the door for respectful, open dialogue between the family and members of the care team, acknowledging the lived experience that is brought to the table in understanding the problem and co-creating a solution.