Origin of Somataform Disorder

[Bob__0__0]

  After experiencing varied neurologial symptoms, my neurologist diagnosed me as having a "brain chemical imbalance" which he later called somataform disorder.  He was very insistent this is a true chemical problem in the brain and not a mental health problem.
  When I look for information on it on the web it seems to always fall under psychiatry.  I am being hounded by a family member who insists it is a mental health problem and that I should seek counseling.  I do not personally feel the need for counseling at this time but certainly would seek it if I felt it was needed.
  I am on medication that has greatly helped reduce the symptoms (nortiptyline) and feeling overall very good.
  I'm just wondering if there is believed to be a chemical cause to this that can be independent of the patients mental health.  Is there any information available on this on the web.
  Thanks
Dear Bob:
Sorry to hear of your problem.  The disorder you described is not yet fully understood biochemically.  Most think that somewhere in the brain there is a chemical imbalance, but exactly where and what is currently not known.  Your physician may be researching the area and therefore know more than I.  Yes, I think that you would benefit from counseling.  Medications help, but the etiology of this psychiatrically needs to be addressed for full recovery.  It may be that the true etiology may never be found but one should look and try to correct the problem.  I agree with your family members.  Your physician is also correct in that this is likely a chemical imbalance.  Best of luck.
Sincerely,
CCF Neuro[P] MD