Neurosis

Neurosis refers to mental or physical symptoms caused by psychological factors, distinguishing it from more severe mental disorders as the person's ability to recognize reality remains intact. The primary symptoms of neurosis include emotional issues such as anxiety, stress, fear, obsessive thoughts and behaviors, and depression. While neurosis can disrupt daily life, it does not involve severe psychiatric symptoms like delusions or hallucinations, and the individual is often aware of their condition to some extent.
Major Symptoms of Neurosis: Anxiety: A state of excessive worry and fear that affects daily life. Obsessions and Compulsions: Repetitive, irrational thoughts and behaviors aimed at relieving these thoughts.Depression: A persistent low mood, often accompanied by feelings of helplessness and lack of motivation.Phobias: Irrational fears of specific situations or objects.Somatic Symptoms: Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or dizziness caused by neurosis.Causes of Neurosis:Neurosis can develop due to various factors, including:Genetic Factors: A family history of neurosis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.Environmental Factors: Childhood trauma, high-stress environments, or constant psychological pressure can trigger neurosis.Personality Traits: Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies or those who exert excessive self-control may be more susceptible to neurosis.Psychological Trauma: Traumatic events or significant life changes can lead to the onset of neurosis.Treatment of Neurosis from a Traditional Korean Medicine Perspective:In traditional Korean medicine, neurosis is seen as a result of imbalances in the body and disruptions in the flow of Qi and blood (氣血). Treatment involves adjusting these imbalances through acupuncture and herbal medicine, taking into account both general and individual physiological factors.Treatment Study 1) 67-year-old Japanese WomanThis patient, who was undergoing outpatient care after gallstone surgery, reported feeling physically exhausted, anxious, and restless, with frequent negative and worrisome thoughts. She also mentioned experiencing dizziness, making her unable to go out alone. Additionally, she had a lack of appetite, a tendency toward constipation, and despite sleeping for 7 hours, she never felt well-rested, leading to constant fatigue. She often felt anxious easily, was reluctant to move, had a bitter taste in her mouth, frequently woke up in the early morning, and constantly felt chest tightness.Since frequent visits were not possible, herbal medicine treatment was initiated. After taking the prescribed herbs for one week, she reported significant improvement overall, although some anxiety and discomfort in the upper abdomen remained. After taking the medicine for another two weeks, she felt lighter, her sleep quality improved, and most of her negative thoughts and anxiety had disappeared. She decided to take another two weeks of medicine, and treatment was concluded.